Abstract
This research paper explores the political journey, governance, and development strategies of Mamata Banerjee as the Chief Minister of West Bengal, with a particular focus on her policies aimed at economic growth, social welfare, and infrastructure development. The study critically examines the transformative impact of key government initiatives, including Kanyashree, Rupashree, Krishak Bandhu, Lakhir Bhandar, and Swasthya Sathi, which have significantly contributed to women empowerment, rural upliftment, and financial inclusion. The research further analyzes the economic growth trajectory of West Bengal, highlighting industrialization, MSME sector expansion, and investment-friendly policies. The role of port development, inland waterways, metro rail expansion, and smart city projects in enhancing the state’s urban infrastructure and connectivity is also discussed in detail. The study incorporates statistical data, policy evaluations, and comparative analyses to assess the effectiveness of these developmental strategies. Despite the notable progress, challenges such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, employment generation constraints, and land acquisition hurdles persist. This paper provides an in-depth evaluation of these challenges and offers recommendations for policy refinement, sustainable economic growth, and enhanced governance efficiency. The findings of this research suggest that Mamata Banerjee’s governance model has successfully balanced economic growth with social welfare, positioning West Bengal as a progressive state in India’s development landscape. The study concludes that continued investment in infrastructure, industrial diversification, and digital governance will be crucial for the state’s long-term prosperity.