Bengal industries minister Shashi Panja on Wednesday urged businesses and SMEs in the state to make use of a portal developed by the state labour department that connects employers with employees based on their skill and location.

“Giving employment is a challenge all over the country and that is something that we are also looking to address,” the industries minister said at the 123rd annual general meeting of the Merchants’ Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

“The labour department has launched a new portal called ‘Karmasangbad’. They are evaluating the availability of labour district wise and uploading onto the portal. So, whenever industry is looking for labour, whether skilled or unskilled, they can look at this portal,” said Panja adding that this will increase transparency and lessen hurdles while sourcing labour.

The minister also said that the concept of the Bengal Shopping Festival, an event initiated by the state government, that will be held between September 20 and 24 was inspired by the Spain and Dubai shopping festivals. She said that the initiative aims to showcase the potential of the state’s retail and commercial sectors and all GI tagged products will be showcased there.

The minister also highlighted the need for inclusivity for specially-abled persons.

MCCI president

Amit Saraogi has been elected as president of the Merchants’ Chamber of Commerce & Industry for the year 2024-25. He is the managing director of Anmol Feeds Pvt. Ltd.