During the ASSOCHAM-STPI event, Das highlighted that the 250-acre silicon valley project is advancing at an “impressive speed” and is projected to create a minimum of 7,500 jobs.
“To date, 41 companies have been given land allocations, and site inspections indicate that construction is progressing rapidly, with an anticipated investment of ₹30,000 crore,” he stated, emphasizing that this project is a cornerstone of the state’s digital strategy for the future.
The IT secretary noted that the technology landscape in the state has expanded beyond Kolkata, reaching areas like Siliguri and Durgapur.
The region currently boasts 32 government IT parks and over 60 private IT parks, accommodating more than 2,800 IT and IT-enabled services firms, while providing employment for over two lakh individuals.
In terms of advanced computing capabilities, Das pointed out that West Bengal ranks sixth in India for data center capacity, with 11 private data centers currently operational.
He highlighted the state-run Siliguri data center, which features cutting-edge infrastructure, including 40 H100 Nvidia GPU chips and approximately 40 L100 chips.
In a noteworthy initiative to foster innovation, Das mentioned that the state government is finalizing a proposal to enable private enterprises to utilize this infrastructure for AI training and model development.
“We are receptive to ideas and collaborations, and we would love to welcome you in the near future,” he addressed industry representatives at the Assocham gathering.
Regarding exports, the secretary remarked on the “phenomenal” growth in software shipments, which have jumped from about ₹8,000 crore 15 years ago to over ₹40,000 crore today.
He affirmed that the IT department would function as a single-window facilitator to address inter-departmental concerns and ensure expedited project execution.
“We welcome any expansion proposals and will provide support to ensure projects launch smoothly,” he affirmed.
Das also stressed the significance of diversity within the IT ecosystem, commending companies that actively employ women and individuals with disabilities, which he asserted fosters “very positive vibes” for the state’s industrial environment.
At the event, Sushil Mohta, chairman of World Trade Center (WTC), Salt Lake, noted that Bengal is becoming a strong contender for global capability centers (GCCs) due to its educational institutions, deep talent base, and improving infrastructure.
“We must enhance our marketing efforts and showcase our achievements to establish the state as a GCC destination, especially in Europe,” he stated, adding that secure, smart, and sustainable ecosystems are crucial for long-term success.
Mohta emphasized the key role of WTC Salt Lake in building a globally connected business ecosystem for tech firms, GCCs, and startups.
During the event, STPI Kolkata recognized leading software exporting companies in the state across various categories, including those with exports exceeding ₹5 crore.
Tata Consultancy Services was awarded the IT Ratna accolade for the highest software exports from West Bengal, currently employing an inclusive workforce of around 54,000-55,000 people in the state.
