CM Mamata announces development boards for marginalised communities ahead of Bengal Assembly polls

Ahead of the Assembly elections in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday, March 13, 2026, announced the setting up of cultural and development boards for five marginalized communities in the state.

In a social media post, the Prime Minister said his government plans to form five new Culture and Development Boards for Munda (ST), Kora (ST), Dom (SC), Kumbhakar (OBC) and Sadgope (OBC) communities.

“These communities are an integral part of the living fabric of Bengal. My heartfelt congratulations to all of them. These boards will preserve their unique languages ​​and traditions while providing better education, healthcare and jobs. They will protect traditional rights and bring about greater socio-economic growth,” Ms. Banerjee said.

The announcement comes a few days after President Droupadi Murmu stated that the West Bengal government is not serious about the development of Scheduled Tribes while pointing out protocol violation at an event he attended in Darjeeling district.

The West Bengal government under Mamata Banerjee started setting up development boards soon after coming to power. Ms. Banerjee started setting up these development boards since 2013.

The first development boards were formed between 2013 and 2015 in Lepcha, Sherpa, Tamang and Bhutia communities of Darjeeling district. Later in 2016, boards were announced for the Kami, Damai and Sarki communities.

In May 2017, the Mamata Banerjee government announced the Rajbanshi Culture and Development Board.

The prime minister’s political opponents say these boards serve no purpose and receive almost no funding. Of the 294 Assembly seats in West Bengal, 68 are reserved for Scheduled Castes and 16 for Scheduled Tribes.

In her social media post, Ms. Banerjee added: “Since 2013, we have created many such boards for our weaker communities and ensured their all-round development. Our commitment to Ma, Mati and Manush means we are committed to ensuring no community is left behind. Our aim is simple: to bring a smile to every face through inclusive progress and unwavering support.”