The West Bengal Incentive Scheme: Additional Incentive on Generation of Employment
By Department of Tourism, Government of West Bengal
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Quick Answer
An incentive scheme by the Government of West Bengal providing a 60% subsidy on employers' contributions to ESI and EPF for employment generation in eligible tourism projects, valid for 5 to 10 years.
- Funding amount
- Varies
- Funding type
- Subsidy
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- West Bengal
About this subsidy
The "Additional Incentive on Generation of Employment" is a sub-scheme operating under the broader "The West Bengal Incentive Scheme 2021." Launched by the Department of Tourism, Government of West Bengal, on February 22nd, 2021, the scheme aims to bolster the state's tourism sector and foster self-employment by supporting new and expanding businesses. Its primary objective is to provide financial assistance to intending or prospective entrepreneurs, enabling them to establish businesses, become employers, and significantly contribute to employment generation within the state.
Specifically, this sub-scheme entitles eligible units to an additional incentive by covering a percentage of their contributions towards the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) and Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) Schemes. This crucial support reduces the operational costs associated with hiring and retaining employees, thereby encouraging businesses to expand their workforce. The overarching goal is to create a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem where self-employed youth can thrive and evolve into significant job creators. The scheme is designed to remain valid until December 31st, 2025, offering a sustained period of support for the tourism industry in West Bengal.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Subsidy providers
Benefits & Funding
What You Get
The scheme provides a significant financial incentive, covering 60% of the employer's contribution towards Employees' State Insurance (ESI) and Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) Schemes. This support is available for a duration of 5 years for units located in Group A, B, C, & D areas, and for an extended period of 10 years for units situated in designated Special Areas. This direct financial assistance aims to reduce the burden of social security contributions for businesses, thereby promoting employment growth and sustainability within the tourism sector.
- Disbursement
- Reimbursement
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applications submitted through the Shilpasathi portal undergo an initial screening based on the completeness of information and attached documents. The West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Limited (WBTDCL) then reviews the applications for the issuance of various certificates, including the Registration Certificate, Date of Commencement Certificate, and Eligibility Certificate. Final approval for the incentive scheme is granted by the relevant authority within the Department of Tourism or WBTDCL upon satisfactory arrangement and verification of all submitted details and compliance with scheme guidelines.
Application Process
- 1
Register on Shilpasathi
Create a new user account on the Shilpasathi portal or sign in if you already have one.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 2
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 3
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 4
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Program templates & documents
Files the program publishes for applicants — download these and apply in the prescribed format.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main objective of the "West Bengal Incentive Scheme 2021"?
The main objective of the scheme is to provide financial assistance and help enthusiastic intending or prospective entrepreneurs to start their own business as a self-employed youth who will become an employer in upcoming days and generate more employment.
What is the main objective of the "Additional Incentive on Generation of Employment" scheme?
Through this incentive, an eligible unit will be entitled to an additional incentive for employment generation for paying its contribution towards Employees State Insurance (ESI) and Employees Provident Fund (EPF) Scheme.
Who are the eligible tourism projects/units for this scheme?
The Scheme shall be generally applicable to all eligible tourism projects/units/expansion projects of existing units set up on or after the effective date (i.e. 22nd February, 2021) of this incentive scheme. Also, eligible Hotel Units who started their commercial operation on or after 7th January, 2015 to 31st December, 2020 but could not apply under previous scheme 2015 due to absence of a Bar in the Hotel.
What are the benefits under this scheme?
Eligible units in Group A, B, C & D areas will receive 60% incentive for a period of 5 years. Units in Special Areas will receive 60% incentive for a period of 10 years. This incentive covers contributions towards ESI and EPF.
What documents are required for the application process?
Applicants need to attach relevant documents for the issuance of certificates, including Registration Certificate, Date of Commencement Certificate, and Eligibility Certificate issued by West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Limited.
