From Ayushman Bharat to BSF fencing: Key decisions from CM Suvendu Adhikari’s first Cabinet

The newly-formed West Bengal government led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari held its first Cabinet meeting at Nabanna on Monday and announced a series of key decisions, including governance, security, implementation of Central government schemes and constitutional administration in the state. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to the ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar and the principle of "For the People, By the People, Of the People".

Addressing reporters after the meeting, Adhikari said the new administration had taken six major decisions during its first Cabinet session.

"The first Cabinet meeting with all concerned officials went well. We assure the people of Bengal that the double-engine government will complete all development-related works. Six decisions were taken during our first Cabinet meeting," he said.

Border land transfer to BSF

One of the major announcements made by the Chief Minister was the decision to transfer land in border areas to the Border Security Force (BSF) to speed up fencing work along the Bangladesh border.

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"In our very first Cabinet meeting today, we have taken the decision to transfer the land to the BSF. The process of transferring this land commences today. It will be transferred to the MHA within the next 45 days. Once this is accomplished, the BSF will complete the border fencing, and the ongoing issue of illegal infiltration will be resolved within a short period," Adhikari said.

He described the move as important for national security and alleged that the previous government had delayed the process.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message of "fear out, trust in", he stated that the new government was committed to ensuring security, confidence, and development for the people of West Bengal.

Ayushman Bharat and Central schemes

The Chief Minister also confirmed that the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme would now be implemented in West Bengal.

"The 'Ayushman Bharat' scheme will begin in Bengal. The 'Jan Arogya Yojana' and other schemes of the Prime Minister will also be implemented here," he said.

Adhikari further stated, "We connected with Ayushman Bharat. All other Central schemes, such as Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma, Beti Banchao Beti Parao, among others, will be implemented in Bengal."

As part of administrative reforms, IAS officers in the state will now participate in Central government training programmes in line with practices followed in other states, Adhikari announced. The government has also decided to fully align West Bengal with the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Age relaxation in government jobs

The government also approved a five-year extension in the upper age limit for applying to state government jobs, fulfilling a promise earlier made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

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Adhikari also thanked voters, election officials, security personnel and political parties following the assembly elections. He added that investigations could be initiated into the deaths of 321 people during the political struggle if their families sought one.

"I extend my gratitude to all voters, the Election Commission (EC), the Central Forces, the police, the observers, and all political parties.

Regarding the 321 individuals who lost their lives during our struggle: if their families desire, the government will initiate an investigation," he stated.