The West Bengal Incentive Scheme: Tourism Promotion Assistance in lieu of Interest Subsidy

The West Bengal Incentive Scheme, introduced on February 22, 2021, by the state's Department of Tourism, seeks to encourage entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities within the tourism industry. Operating under the sub-scheme "Tourism Promotion Assistance in lieu of Interest Subsidy," it offers financial support to qualifying tourism ventures and hotel establishments. The primary aim is to assist both new and established entrepreneurs in launching or growing their tourism-related enterprises, contributing to economic development and job generation across West Bengal.

By providing assistance through SGST, the scheme helps offset interest expenses, thereby reducing the financial strain on businesses. This mechanism is designed to make it easier for entrepreneurs to manage costs while expanding their operations in the sector.

Registration Process:

• Go to the official Shilpasathi portal and select ‘Apply online’.
• First-time users should choose ‘Create New’, pick the entity type (Industry/Business/Commercial/Charitable Society/Govt. entity), enter the registration number, and complete the ‘User Registration’ form.
• Returning users can ‘Sign In’ using their User ID, password, and Captcha.

Application Process:

• Sign in to the Shilpasathi portal.
• On the user dashboard, open ‘ALL SERVICES’ and choose ‘Tourism Incentive’.
• Select ‘Create CAF’ to obtain a CAF ID, then proceed with ‘Apply Online’.
• Provide the required information in the common application form.
• Upload the relevant documents and press ‘Save & Continue’.
• Verify the details, tick the ‘Declaration’ box, and press ‘Submit’.
• Status updates are sent via SMS and email.
• Track progress on the ‘Check status’ page.
• Once approved, the Registration Certificate can be downloaded from the system.

Important Note: Incentives are released only after the Registration Certificate, Date of Commencement Certificate, and Eligibility Certificate are issued. After obtaining the Registration and Date of Commercial Operation Certificates, apply to the Managing Director, West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation, for the Eligibility Certificate.

Applications undergo an administrative review, with decisions resting on the information provided and adherence to the scheme's eligibility conditions. Prior to any incentive disbursement, the unit is required to secure a Registration Certificate, Date of Commencement Certificate, and Eligibility Certificate from the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Limited, each confirming that arrangements and compliance requirements have been met. Once every stage is satisfactorily completed, the authority issues final approval.