West Bengal Unveils New Investment Policy to Boost Tourism Sector

West Bengal's tourism sector is entering a new phase of growth following the launch of the West Bengal Investment Promotion Policy 2026, unveiled by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on 5 November 2026. According to the policy framework, the tourism and hospitality sector is now eligible for significant benefits, including a 100 per cent exemption from stamp duty for non-profit service units and SGST-linked assistance for eligible enterprises. The policy aims to accelerate industrial growth, with a focus on employment generation and time-bound business approvals, as reported by KPMG and the state government. Complementing this, Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh recently launched a dedicated Homestay Portal to regulate the sector, noting that there are currently 5,479 registered homestays in the state, with 2,679 already enlisted with the Tourism Department. The government is also prioritizing infrastructure, with plans for a Rs 2,500 crore direct investment in tourism infrastructure, as stated by Minister Ghosh. For entrepreneurs, the Department of Tourism continues to offer support through the 'Tourism Promotion Assistance' scheme, which provides financial incentives for qualifying hotel and tourism projects. This edition serves as a guide to the current policy landscape for stakeholders looking to engage with the state's evolving tourism economy.