Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb will represent West Bengal at the upcoming National Conference of Urban and Local Bodies, scheduled for November 26 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Organised by the Government of India in collaboration with the 16th Finance Commission, the event will bring together mayors, municipal leaders, and urban governance experts from across the country to discuss pressing challenges and opportunities for urban local bodies.
Mayor Deb expressed pride in representing not only the Siliguri Municipal Corporation but also the entire state at this significant forum. “This is an opportunity to raise issues vital to Bengal and ensure our state’s perspectives contribute to shaping urban development policies,” he stated on Friday.
The conference aims to address the financial requirements of municipalities and urban local bodies, with a focus on fund allocation, urban development initiatives, and improving civic infrastructure and services. “Strengthening the financial capabilities of urban local bodies is essential for enhancing infrastructure and civic services in towns and cities,” Deb emphasised.
The 16th Finance Commission, established on December 31, 2023, is tasked with recommending the distribution of tax revenue between the central government and states for the five-year period starting April 1, 2026. It is also responsible for examining principles of grant-in-aid and strategies to augment state resources to support local governance. The commission is expected to submit its report by October 31, 2025.
“This conference provides a platform to advocate for Bengal’s needs and ensure the financial and developmental interests of urban local bodies are addressed,” Deb remarked, highlighting the importance of the event.
The first Sunday cleanliness drive under the #ZillaDarjeeling campaign is set to take place at Darjeeling More on November 24, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The initiative, led by Siliguri-based start-up Kaushal Clean Pvt Ltd, aims to make Darjeeling the cleanest district in India by 2029.
As part of the campaign, volunteers from Save Earth for Life, a partner NGO, will clean up litter and garbage around Darjeeling More and ensure proper waste disposal. Influencer Snigdha Shaha (@snigdha_shaha) is the campaign’s featured partner for this week’s drive, lending her support to raise awareness and encourage participation.
