The West Bengal Incentive Scheme: Additional Incentive on Generation of Employment

The "Additional Incentive on Generation of Employment" functions as a sub-scheme within the larger "The West Bengal Incentive Scheme 2021." Introduced by the Department of Tourism, Government of West Bengal, on February 22nd, 2021, it seeks to strengthen the state's tourism sector and encourage self-employment by aiding new and expanding enterprises. The scheme's core purpose is to offer financial support to prospective entrepreneurs, helping them launch businesses, hire staff, and meaningfully add to employment opportunities in the state.

Under this sub-scheme, eligible units receive an extra incentive covering a portion of their contributions to the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) and Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) Schemes. This assistance lowers the operational expenses tied to recruiting and retaining personnel, prompting businesses to enlarge their teams. The broader aim is to cultivate an entrepreneurial environment where self-employed individuals can grow into substantial job providers. The scheme remains in effect until December 31st, 2025, ensuring a prolonged window of backing for West Bengal's tourism industry.

The application is processed through the Shilpasathi portal (https://silpasathi.wb.gov.in/) in the following sequence:

1. Registration: Open the official Shilpasathi website and select the 'Apply online' option.
2. New User: If you are a first-time applicant, choose 'Create New', pick your entity type (Industry, Business, Commercial, Charitable Society, or Government), and enter the corresponding registration number.
3. User Registration: Complete the 'User Registration' form with accurate details and click 'Register'. Those who already have an account can use the 'Sign In' option with their User ID, password, and Captcha.
4. Login: After registering or signing in, provide your credentials (username, password, captcha, or registered mobile number with OTP) and click 'Log In' to reach your user dashboard.
5. Access Service: From the dashboard, open 'ALL SERVICES' and tick the box next to 'Tourism Incentive' in the service list.
6. Create CAF: Select 'Create CAF' to obtain your Common Application Form (CAF) ID, then proceed with 'Apply Online'.
7. Fill Application: Provide all required information in the common application form.
8. Document Upload: Upload every relevant document needed for certificate issuance and click 'Save & Continue'. A message confirming successful upload will be displayed.
9. Review and Submit: Go through the completed form. Tick the 'Declaration' checkbox at the bottom left, then press 'Submit'.
10. Notifications: SMS and email alerts are sent at key points, such as submission, approval, or rejection.
11. Check Status: You will be taken to the 'Check status' page to track the progress of your application.
12. Download Certificate: Once the authority approves the application, download the Registration Certificate by clicking the 'Download Certificate' button.

Note: Incentives are provided only after the Registration Certificate, Date of Commencement Certificate, and Eligibility Certificate are issued. After obtaining the first two certificates, units apply for the Eligibility Certificate to the Managing Director, West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation. Following the receipt of all three certificates, eligible units can apply for various incentives through the designated online forms.

Applications received via the Shilpasathi portal are first checked for completeness, covering both the information provided and the supporting documents attached. Following this, the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Limited (WBTDCL) examines the submissions to issue certificates such as the Registration Certificate, Date of Commencement Certificate, and Eligibility Certificate. Once all details are verified and found to comply with the scheme’s conditions, the final sanction for the incentive is given by the appropriate authority within the Department of Tourism or WBTDCL.