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

## Additional Incentive on Generation of Employment

This sub-scheme sits within The West Bengal Incentive Scheme 2021. The Department of Tourism, Government of West Bengal, launched it on February 22nd, 2021, to strengthen the state's tourism sector and encourage self-employment by backing new and expanding businesses. Financial assistance goes to intending or prospective entrepreneurs so they can set up businesses, take on employees, and add to employment generation in the state.

Eligible units receive an additional incentive under this sub-scheme: a percentage of their contributions towards the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) and Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) Schemes is covered. Hiring and retaining employees therefore costs less to operate, which encourages businesses to grow their workforce.

The wider aim is an entrepreneurial ecosystem in which self-employed youth can thrive and grow into significant job creators. The scheme remains valid until December 31st, 2025, giving the tourism industry in West Bengal a sustained period of support.

- **Step 1 (Registration):** Go to the official Shilpasathi portal at https://silpasathi.wb.gov.in/ and select 'Apply online'. - **Step 2 (New User):** Those using the portal for the first time should select 'Create New', then choose their entity type — Industry, Business, Commercial, Charitable Society or Govt. — and provide the registration number. - **Step 3 (User Registration):** In the 'User Registration' window, enter the required details correctly and select 'Register'. If you already hold an account, use 'Sign In' by entering your User ID, password and Captcha. - **Step 4 (Login):** Once registered or signed in, supply your credentials (username, password, captcha, or the registered mobile number with OTP) and select 'Log In' to reach your user dashboard. - **Step 5 (Access Service):** From the dashboard, select 'ALL SERVICES', then tick the checkbox beside 'Tourism Incentive' in the services list. - **Step 6 (Create CAF):** Select 'Create CAF' to have your Common Application Form (CAF) ID generated, then select 'Apply Online' to move ahead. - **Step 7 (Fill Application):** Enter all necessary details in the common application form. - **Step 8 (Document Upload):** Attach every document needed for issuance of certificates and select 'Save & Continue'. A message reading 'Document successfully uploaded' will be displayed. - **Step 9 (Review and Submit):** Go through the completed application form. Prior to submitting, tick the 'Declaration' checkbox located at the bottom left of the page, then select 'Submit'. - **Step 10 (Notifications):** SMS and email notifications arrive at key stages, such as submission, approval or rejection. - **Step 11 (Check Status):** You are taken to the 'Check status' page, where the progress of your application can be tracked. - **Step 12 (Download Certificate):** Once the application is successfully completed and approved by the authority, retrieve your approved Registration Certificate from the online system by selecting the 'Download Certificate' button. - **Note:** Incentives are granted only after the Registration Certificate, Date of Commencement Certificate and Eligibility Certificate have been issued. After obtaining the first two certificates, units apply for the Eligibility Certificate to the Managing Director, West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation. Once all three certificates are in hand, eligible units apply for the different types of incentives through the specific online forms.

Applications received via the Shilpasathi portal are first screened for completeness of information and supporting documents. The West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Limited (WBTDCL) subsequently examines these applications for the issue of certificates such as the Registration Certificate, Date of Commencement Certificate and Eligibility Certificate. The incentive scheme receives final approval from the competent authority in the Department of Tourism or WBTDCL, subject to satisfactory verification of all submitted details and adherence to the scheme guidelines.