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 promote self-employment by assisting new and expanding enterprises. The scheme's core purpose is to offer financial support to prospective entrepreneurs, helping them launch businesses, become employers, and contribute to job creation in the state.

Under this sub-scheme, eligible units receive an additional 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 of hiring and retaining staff, encouraging businesses to increase their workforce. The scheme aims to foster an entrepreneurial environment where self-employed individuals can grow into substantial job providers. It remains in effect until December 31st, 2025, providing extended support to West Bengal's tourism industry.

The application process is carried out entirely through the official Shilpasathi portal (https://silpasathi.wb.gov.in/). The steps are as follows:

1. **Registration:** Go to the portal and select the 'Apply online' option. 2. **New User:** If you are a new user, choose 'Create New'. Then, specify your entity type (Industry, Business, Commercial, Charitable Society, or Govt.) and provide the registration number. 3. **User Registration:** Complete the 'User Registration' form with accurate information 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, enter your credentials (username, password, captcha, or registered mobile number with OTP) and click 'Log In' to reach your user dashboard. 5. **Access Service:** On the dashboard, click 'ALL SERVICES' and tick the box next to 'Tourism Incentive' in the list. 6. **Create CAF:** Click 'Create CAF' to generate your Common Application Form (CAF) ID, and then select 'Apply Online' to continue. 7. **Fill Application:** Provide all required information in the common application form. 8. **Document Upload:** Attach the necessary documents for certificate issuance and click 'Save & Continue'. A confirmation message stating 'Document successfully uploaded' will be displayed. 9. **Review and Submit:** Check the completed form. Tick the 'Declaration' checkbox at the bottom left of the page before clicking 'Submit'. 10. **Notifications:** You will receive SMS and email alerts at key stages, 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 your application, download the Registration Certificate from the online system using 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 must 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 specific online forms.

Applications filed via the Shilpasathi portal are first checked for completeness, covering both the information provided and the documents uploaded. 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 particulars are verified and the scheme’s conditions are met, the competent authority within the Department of Tourism or WBTDCL gives the final go-ahead for the incentive.