AMRI-DHAKURIA:Fire toll reaches 89, owners of Kolkata's AMRI hospital held; licence cancelled

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Fire toll reaches 89, owners of Kolkata's AMRI hospital held; licence cancelled

In the worst fire tragedy in any hospital in India, 89 patients and staffers were killed in Kolkata's well-known AMRI Hospital when a terrible blaze engulfed its annexe building early on Friday, trapping dozens of helpless patients while doctors and others fled to safety. (In pics: Fire engulfs Kolkata hospital)
The pre-dawn fire broke out at 3.30 a.m., catching many in their sleep. While most nurses, doctors and other staffers were able to get away, many critically ill patients suffocated to death in their hospital beds.
The dead included a patient from neighbouring Bangladesh.
The tragedy unfolded over many hours. Some were suffocated, some were too infirm to escape the toxic fumes. The lucky few were brought down the side of the four-storey glass facade building using ropes and ladders, even as thousands watched in horror.
The fire brigade, many alleged, came over two hours late. The fire brigade blamed it on narrow roads leading to the hospital.
By late evening, authorities put the death toll at 88, almost all of them patients. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ordered the arrest of six hospital directors.
"The hospital staff initially prevented the fire fighters from entering the building," said Banerjee, a shocking admission that only added fuel to the helpless anger of the families of the dead and injured.
The injured were rushed to several hospitals in the city. The bodies, most of them bearing signs of suffocation, piled up at the SSKM Hospital.
PM expresses grief
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh led the nation in expressing grief over the tragedy. He announced Rs.200,000 as compensation to families of each of those killed.
Till late in the evening, rescuers were trying to drill holes in the wall and smash the glass-panes in a last ditch effort to look for survivors and bodies, and extinguish still smouldering fires.
Co-founded by the Emami & Shrachi Groups along with the West Bengal government in 1996, the hospital. once rated as amongst India's best, is located in the fairly upscale Dhakuria neighbourhood.
High profile industrialists - Emami Group Chairman R.S. Goenka and Shrachi Group's R.S. Todi - and four other directors of the hospital were arrested. The hospital's licence was cancelled.
It was a sorry saga of bureaucratic and government inefficiency, leading to the second major fire in Kolkata in 20 months - after the March 23, 2010 blaze at the British-era Stephen Court in the heart of the bustling Park Street claimed 43 lives.
Relatives angry
The fire brigade was initially ill-equipped - coming without masks and with only rickety manual lifts - to deal with the horrific disaster.
Anguished relatives and rescuers also complained that the fire erupted in the basement packed with combustible material, including oxygen cylinders and chemicals.
No wonder, the hospital, which prides itself on its super specialty facilities and attracts many foreigners, quickly turned into a death trap, with the sealed windows and glass.
"The victims mostly got suffocated from the fumes," Municipal Affairs Minister Firhad Hakim said.
"The father of one of my friends was admitted in one of the upper floors. When he heard I am at the spot he called up his son and told him to ask me to rescue him. I could not do anything. I saw his burnt body."
At the time of the fire, there were 160 patients, including around 40-50 in the ICU.
The hospital has two other blocks in the complex.
Through the morning, patients blackened by soot, some dead and others barely alive, were brought out while relatives and locals vented their ire at the state and hospital administration.
"The administration is hopeless, useless," shouted Pradeep Sarkar. His father-in-law had been admitted there Thursday night with a heart ailment.
He said the sky lift came only around 7 a.m.
"They (firemen) came with manual ladders. Had the sky lift come earlier, many people could have been saved," said Sarkar.
Banerjee rushed to the spot, but only stoked the rage of the people.
"Because Mamata is here, the ambulances cannot go towards the annexe building. Please ask her to shift to another road," screamed a relative.
Hospital officials said they had all fire-fighting equipment in place and did not know what had gone wrong.

Read more at: http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/kolkata-hospital-amri-fire/1/163418.html

dhakuria AMRI:9/12/11

Kolkata: The death toll from the AMRI hospital has risen to 73, a figure that includes 3 hospital employees. The hospital first said that 70 percent of its patients had been rescued, but it transpires that 70 of its 160 patients have been killed in the incident. There is also worry that SSKM hospital which is receiving the bodies of those who were killed in the fire, may run out of space in its morgue.
Meanwhile Bangla television channel 24 ghonta, reports that most people have died from suffocation not burns. Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has cancelled the hospital’s licence as a law and order decision. It’s unclear if this incident would affect other AMRIs. She also called for the arrest of the owner of AMRI hospital, but he has gone missing.
The Vice President of AMRI Satyabrata Upadhyay, has said it will offer Rs 5 lakh as compensation for families of the dead. However victims are demanding further justice.
Bangla television channel Star Ananda said 65 bodies have been recovered from the AMRI hospital fire in Kolkata. Meanwhile there are scenes of grief outside the SSKM hospital, where 41 bodies have been brought. Banerjee has said that if needed, she is willing to provide government employment to relatives of those who were killed in the fire.
As the news of the death toll began sinking in, there was a flurry of response. Congress President Sonia Gandhi expressed her sadness, while Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah tweeted, “Every time I see incidents like ”#AMRI” I’m convinced we really are a 3rd world nation with delusions of greatness.”
West Bengal’s Fire Minister Javed Khan earlier said that rescue operations at AMRI hospital had been completed. However the fire in the basement, where it originated is still not under control.

Local TV channels said 65 bodies have been recovered from the AMRI hospital fire in Kolkata. Bikas Das/AP

Meanwhile, crowds of people have gathered outside SSKM hospital where a large number of dead and injured from the AMRI hospital fire have been taken.
The fire brigade said it will file an FIR against AMRI as it was unable to provide them with a blueprint of the building plan, effectively hampering rescue operations. Fire department officials have said that hospital authorities were unable to even tell them where the emergency exits and stairs were. The hospital has also been accused of violating safety norms and using the basement as a godown. The fire started in the basement at around 3.30am. A number of fire fighters are also reportedly suffering from smoke inhalation.
AMRI hospital has said that there was no delay on their part in calling the fire brigade and that the fire was quickly brought under control, but thick smoke hampered rescue operations. However patients family members have disagreed.
All post mortems are scheduled to take place at SSKM. However it is feared that many more patients, doctors and nurses, including those in the intensive care units are still trapped inside the upper floors of the hospital. Bangla channels have reported that 12 patients transferred to other hospitals have died and that bodies have been found on the roof of the hospital as well. The fire brigade has said that although the fire was in the basement, the central AC system carried the smoke all through the building, causing asphyxiation.

Earlier angry relatives of patients threw stones and smashed panes at the hospital registry, as they were being given no information about patients conditions and whereabouts. Police had to lathi charge a group of people throwing bricks. The hospital admitted that it was unprepared and said that they do not have a helpline set up for the families of patients who may have been injured or killed in a fire that broke out in its premises early this morning. Meanwhile West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who is at the site, has called for a camp to be set up to give information on the patients.
Banerjee has also called on Kolkatta’s SSKM hospital has to open an emergency unit to accommodate patients. All hospitals in Kolkata have been told that they have to admit any patient from AMRI. The West Bengal opposition leader has also arrived at AMRI.
Officials have said that patients who were on ventilators pose the greatest problems in terms of transferring them to other hospitals.
Fire Services Minister Javed Khan said the fire was now under control, but had not been extinguished yet. The hospital also did not have proper fire-fighting equipment, he said.
Some bodies were found in departments that firemen were able to access, he said.
The fire which was suspected to have originated in the electrical department in the basement of the centrally air-conditioned building swiftly spread, with the third floor and above being affected the most, fire brigade sources said.
The fire brigade dispatched 25 fire engines, which took time to reach the smoke-engulfed building because of narrow approach roads, Hakim said.
Firemen using ladders smashed window panes to release smoke and rescue patients trapped inside the ICU, ICCU, ITU and Critical Care units. The main power supply was also cut.

Mamata Banerjee upset with UPA-II over Petrol price hike

Reacting strongly over the hike in petrol prices, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday criticised UPA for not taking her views before giving nod to the Oil firms for fuel price hike.


The Trinamool Congress chief Banerjee Trinamool expressed her displeasure saying her party was not consulted before the announcement. She questioned why the fuel prices do not come down when the crude oil prices are low?


The TMC, which is the second largest ally of the UPA government, is unhappy with the Centre's decision to hike the petrol prices, which was taken without consulting it.


However, Banerjee said that she will never blackmail the UPA over the latest price hike though she is angry with its ally. She said that she will meet the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over the matter very soon.

Banerjee said that the UPA government has insulted her party for not consulting with them before the government took such serious decision, which is a kind of big pressure on the people of India.

She said that the TMC will withdraw the support from the government if the price hike continues further.

The TMC had called for an emergency parliamentary party meeting on Friday to decide any action to be taken against the UPA government. However, question did not arise to pull out from the government in the meeting.
 

MAMATA MOI RUP OF CM W.B & CHAIR PERSON AITMC

Mamata Banerjee on the way to re-implement `Bengal Renaissance`, brings about the aura of development

 

Mamata Banerjee on the way to re-implement `Bengal Renaissance`, brings about the aura of development

October 24, 2011

Bringing change is not an easy job though, one has to confront on all spheres, Mamata Banerjee is a name of conviction and she has taken a plunge to bring back the lost glory of Bengal. Many will like her style while some may prefer to differ, whether you accept or not, the fact remains that nobody can even dare to question her integrity towards Maa-Mati-Manush.
Pallab Ghosh takes a close-up look.
When my editor assigned me to write a feature on the ‘winds of change’ blowing across the Paschimbanga after Mamata Banerjee taking over as the Chief Minister, I was bit confused and kept thinking as how to begin my story, for the simple reason that it is not easy to sum up her personality rather an enigma and no words can explain the mass adulation and admiration she receives as people are more than delighted to have her as their Chief Minister since past 34-years saw a sulk in all spheres from industry to education and even health sector. Her slogan of Maa-Mati-Manush is a philosophy which she inculcates in her and wants all to follow. Personally, having seen Mamata Banerjee in Delhi in various programmes and seeing her after the elections as the Chief Minister of the state is a huge difference, she was a then a representative of the people of West Bengal in the Lok Sabha and now is one of them who prefers to be their favorite `Didi` (elder sister) as it allows to have an interact with the masses.
The state rose to awakening during the Bengal Renaissance and a new cult in art, culture, theater, music, visual art and literature was introduced which took Bengal to the epitome of culture. Likewise, with Mamata Banerjee as the Chief Minister of the state, a new era has just begun. The history was written nearly many years ago when she was grabbed by her hair and brutally beaten up at the Hazra virtually left to die, while a protest rally, when she took a pledge within herself that she would defeat the Left Front regime and make her presence felt. However, after that there was a no stopping for this lady who came close to masses traveling many ups and downs. In 2009, the Trinamool Congress made its presence felt in the state bagging 19 MP seats, among them 5 women (including Banerjee). Until then, the Congress victory of 16 seats in 1984, by the sympathy vote after the death of Indira Gandhi, was considered the best show of opposition. Mamata Banerjee as the Railways Minister for second consecutive time announced numerous successful railway projects and presenting a passenger friendly budget. Though, on many occasions she was criticized by the opposition accusing her of being partial and diverting various projects to her home state. Mamata Banerjee always maintained, `I am proud of my state and will continue to work for it, I owe it to my state`.
  

Well, talking of `Paribartan` or change the first thing that come to my mind while going down the memory lane is how she had her calm on many occasions in the past when her arch critic, the Left Front government left no stone unturned to criticize and humiliate her but an undeterred Mamata Banerjee instead of getting provoked, preferred to keep her calm and requested other to do the same. Her slogan of `Bodla Noi Bodol Chai` (we want change not revenge) worked miracle when people realized that she was bringing a new philosophy into the Bengal politics and decided to give her an opportunity to express herself, thus the `winds of change` began blowing across Paschimbanga. The atmosphere around Paschimbanga was basking with positivity and freshness, gone were the days when walls painted with the symbol of hammer and sickle in red; green was seen all over instead.  `This is an unique gesture as anybody standing at this juncture and been humiliated by the Left would have infused hatred among the people but Didi asked the masses to maintain calm and concentrate on the development, only she can think like this`, said Someswhar Sengupta who also added, `A perfect way to start afresh and we are proud that she is our Chief Minister`.

`Audhotto charte hobe, manush r aro kachey ponchote hobo, jodi manush r kachey na jete paren tahole rajniti cheredin` (you will have to shed off the ego and audacity as only then you will be able to reach out to the masses and if you can’t then there is no place for you in politics) was the immediate advice to her ministers and MLAs and party workers. She made it very clear to them that in no circumstances she would tolerate harassment to people and if she comes across any such complains then she would not hesitate to take stringent measures. There are many occasions when she has went a step ahead and proved her integrity towards the public. One such example was when she openly announced that the party will not hesitate to denounce and even take action against those found indulging in threatening and collecting funds from businessmen in the name of party. She even instructed her people to keep a strong vigil on such matters and report to her.

Mamata Banerjee has always been sympathetic and compassionate towards the masses and have always identified with them and tried to stand beside them in the time of distress and pain. This reminds me of two occasions in Delhi which left her mark among the Delhi-ites. The incident took place on the day of Mamata Banerjee was to be sworn-in as Railways Minister, while on her way to Parliament she came across a man being hit by a car and she immediately stepped out of her car and asked the officials to do the needful and reached house late but she was received with applause. In yet another incident Didi was the first to reach the Lalita Park area in Laxmi nagar in East Delhi when a house collapsed killing nearly 70 and injuring many, a majority of the victims were migrant workers. Mamata Banerjee rushed to the site straight from the airport and made arrangements for the dead bodies to be sent back home. There are numerous instances in the past when she has stood beside Maa-Mati-Manush, a philosophy which she firmly believes in. In the recent weeks her trip to Sikkim and North Bengal after a devastating earth quake rocked killing and injuring thousands also depicts the same sentiments and concern for the Maa-Mati-Manush.   

`I will not tolerate any inconvenience caused to public in the name of my security and I will be happy if extra attention is not given to me rather interest of masses is foremost to me`. The Chief Minister expressed her dissatisfaction and said, `I will forgo my security if I am taken seriously as I am concerned over the harassment being caused to people`, reiterated Mamata Banerjee. The recent incident which made the onlookers spellbound when on her way back from the Jangalmahal trip when the security stopped the incoming traffic (a regular feature under any security movement) to give way to her convoy but Ms. Banerjee got down from her car and asked the police to let the traffic pass as she can wait and decided to wait till the traffic passed waving hands at their favorite Didi. Many would feel this is an isolated incident but actually this shows the attitude and temperament of the person and when it is the Chief Minister herself coming out on the road to wave hands at the crowd or interact with them it’s bound to make headlines.

The year 2011 being the 150th anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, many programmes were organized across Paschimbanga, the major one took place on 22 e Srabon (Tagore’s death anniversary as there was election during the time of his birth anniversary) She initiated many special programmes on this occasion including instructing all the educational institutions across the state to organize programmes. However, a compassionate Mamata Banerjee requested not to ask the children to attend school on Sunday on this ground as she would not like them to spoil their Sundays. An excited Mamata Banerjee was seen taking part in a walk along with the children and masses. In a unique initiative, she introduced playing of Rabindrasangeet at the traffic signals. Many accepted it while some criticized as good initiatives always face criticisms.

Talking of changes that she has brought in Paschimbanga is endless ranging from art and culture to health to education and even on the administrative front and she made it a point that the people in the state are able to express their grievances and anguish to their Didi. To bring this change she began with a complete revamping of officials at the Writers’ Building and bringing many senior officers from New Delhi. This was the eye opener for those who had basked in the glory of being government servant and doing nothing at the Writers’ Building during the Left regime as they could hear the warning bells ringing. `My brother used to go to office little before lunch, I used to tell my elder brother that he must be in the office on time but he did not bother to even listen to me but with Mamata Banerjee taking office he not only gets on time but at the same time is scared of his past records`, said Subankar, a taxi driver whose brother works in health department at the Writers’ Building.

However, her recent visit to Jangalmahal and Darjeeling too reflects her concern for the problems which if solved will not only make the locals happy but at the same time will be able to contribute in the economy of the state. She not only warned the separatists to give up violence to enter a dialogue but at same time openly challenged terror outfits operating in Jangalmahal to come forward and kill her and her men if they feel that the voice of gun was mightier than that of peace as she was least scared of death. `If you feel that you can kill me and that will serve your purpose then I request you to kill me, remember you are a coward and acting like `Supari Killer` but I will prefer to stand in the open to face your gun, I will take masses with me and I challenge you of the consequences`, she said. This in itself is a beginning as nobody bothered to visit these affected areas in the past unlike Mamata Banerjee.

Call it a ` Bengal Renaissance` or `Paribartan`, this is just the beginning and there will be many hurdles and obstacles on the way. Some will accept her style while few will criticize but the fact remains that inspite of everything she is taking the initiative to put the state on the world map as for her nothing exists beyond humanity.  Mamata Banerjee is a name of conviction and the initiative she has taken is immense, to infuse the philosophy of `change` is like breaking into the barrier of reluctance that existed for 34-years of misrule in the state and will require both time and patience. 

 

150+DAYS OF Trinamool-led W.B GOVT.

Days in Government

153 October 19, 2011	CM visits North 24 Parganas under the third leg of her district tour, inaugurates e-Collectorate at the office of District Magistrate in Barasat in North 24 Parganas . Maa-Mati-Manush government clears an ordinance to clear 13 universities across Paschimbanga of political interference.
152 December 31, 1969	Ma, Mati, Manush government to subsidize on Jute, CM requests the Center to do the same. The Cabinet cleared an ordinance to rid 13 universities barring the Presidency University from political interference.
152 October 18, 2011	CM again meets interlocutors regarding peace process talks in Jangalmahal.
151 October 17, 2011	CM meets interlocutors regarding peace process in Jangalmahal. CM meets industrialists at Bijoya Sanmiloni, tells them about the state's financial constraints, and reassures land wouldn't be a problem if they want to invest.
150 October 16, 2011	Ma, Mati, Manush Government led by Trinamool Congress completes 150 glorious days serving people of Paschimbanga. AITMC General Secretary, State President travel to districts to oversee proceedings of the Intra-Party elections.
149 October 15, 2011	CM addresses rally at Jhargram, gives seven days ultimatum to anarchists to lay down arms.
148 October 14, 2011	CM reaches Jangalmahal, holds meeting with administrative heads at night.
147 October 13, 2011	CM returns to Kolkata after Darjeeling tour, to visit Jangalmahal tomorrow on the second leg of her district visit to districts.
146 October 12, 2011	CM requests to bring an end to the politics of bandhs that has crippled the Hills and the plains and Dooars and asks political pressure groups in Dooars and Terai not to resort to frequent strikes.
145 October 11, 2011	CM makes it clear that Darjeeling would continue to be an integral part of West Bengal, while on a visit to the district. CM announces that the state government will do everything for the development of the hills.
144 October 10, 2011	CM reaches North Bengal, speaks to tea garden workers regarding their problems on her way to Darjeeling.
143 October 09, 2011	Ma, Mati, Manush Government decides to form Science Museums in districts to enhance scientific knowledge among common people.
142 October 08, 2011	CM resigns from Lok Sabha. CM announces that the government would give Rs 1.5 lakh to two lakh to each of the 1200 clubs located in 200 assembly constituencies in the state for their development.
141 October 07, 2011	Chief Minister announces that she is to begin her tour of the districts which will start from Darjeeling hills on October 10 and end with her trip to Jhargram.
140 October 06, 2011	CM sends best wishes the people of Paschimbanga on the occasion of Bijoya Dashami, asks everybody to get involved in works with new energy.
139 October 05, 2011	CM to address rally in Jhargram on October 14 to announce important decisions for the Jangalmahal area.
138 October 04, 2011	World Bank to provide $250 Million for irrigation projects taken by Ma, Mati, Manush Government in the state.
137 October 03, 2011	Puja Committees across West Bengal pay homage to the historic win of the Ma, Mati, Manush through lightings, designs and themes in the Durga Puja.
135 October 02, 2011	CM planning to set up around 25 new superspeciality hospitals in various district towns and sub-divisions through public-private-partnership (PPP) model.
134 October 01, 2011	CM requests Union Finance Minister to appeal to SBI authorities so that the Bank`s branches are kept open on Sunday, to en-cash the salaries of the Government employees. CM greets peple of Bengal a happy festive season, asks not to react to speculative news, maintain Law and order.
133 September 30, 2011	CM meets Bhutan Prime Minister Jigme Y. Thinley. CM launches Calcutta police`s puja guide.
133 September 29, 2011	Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee gives the go-ahead to a group of interlocutors appointed by her for talks with the ultras.
132 September 28, 2011	Ms Mamata Banerjee wins the by-election bettering the margin of the May election in spite of lower percentage of polling. Trinamool Congress wrests the Basirhat North Assembly seat, ATM Abdullah is the winning candidate. Trinamool now has 185 seats in the Assembly. The Calcutta High Court upheld the Singur Land Rehabilitation and Development Act, 2011, introduced by the Mamata Banerjee government in June to take back the 997 acres leased to the Tatas at Singur.
131 September 27, 2011	Ms. Mamata Banerjee addresses her first public meeting in Singur as Chief Minister, assures the people that her government would return the 400 acres acquired f to farmers.
130 September 26, 2011	CM pays homage to Iswar Chandra Bidyasagar on his 119th Birth Anniversary at Writers'. CM addresses the Singur Dibas rally, asks the Maoists to choose between talks and killing.
129 September 25, 2011	Ms. Mamata Banerjee casts her vote at Mitra Institution, announces that she is hopeful to win the Basirhat North Assembly seat.
128 September 24, 2011	Elected representatives and intellectuals take part in a march for peace against politics of murder at Jhargram.
127 September 23, 2011	Meeting of administrative heads held at Writer's to discuss measures to be taken to control the possible flood situation is some districts.
126 September 22, 2011	Chief Minister expresses her concern over heavy downpour and the release of 70,000 cusec water by DVC that might flood several districts. Ms. Mamata Banerjee initiated the second leg of campaigning for the Bhowanipore constituency consisting of wards - 63, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 77 and 82. The election is scheduled on September 25.
125 September 21, 2011	Trinamool Rail Minister appoints technocrat Sam Pitroda as the head of a committee to suggest how to modernise Indian Railways while keeping enough money for regular operations. CM returns to Kolkata after inspection of earthquake affected areas of North Bengal and Sikkim.
124 September 20, 2011	CM reaches Gangtok, Sikkim, visits the distressed and affected people of the Hills, meets the Chief Minister of Sikkim. CM condemns the death of party worker at Jhargram , says with not tolerate politics of murder.
123 September 19, 2011	CM meets officials at Kurseong, discusses how to send relief to the distressed at the quickest possible time, visits victims at Siliguri. CM rushes to North Bengal to inspect earthquake damages, announces that the State Government will lend a supporting hand to Sikkim.
122 September 18, 2011	After earthquake, CM requests people of the state not to panic and that all district magistrates throughout the state have been alerted to control the situation,
121 September 17, 2011	Bengal IT Expert Committee headed by Sam Pitroda, which includes Infosys founder Narayana Murthy, holds it`s first meeting to help West Bengal emerge as an technology investment destination.
120 September 16, 2011	After successful initiation by Trinamool-led government, BESU upgraded to Central University. Union Information and broadcasting Minister Ms. Ambika Soni meets the Chief Minister, to convey her message regarding development plans for the state to the Prime Minister.
119 September 15, 2011	CM pays homage to Katha Sahitwik Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay on his 135th Birth Anniversary at Writers`. 3rd Intra- party election of the All India Trinamool Congress to be held on 2nd week of October.
118 September 14, 2011	Trinamool-led State Cabinet sanctions proposal of Land Policy.
117 September 13, 2011	CM meets committee from Jadavpur University, discuss formation of central university. Trinamool-led government urges Center to give 14 State Highways the status of National Highways . CM pays homage to legendary freedom fighter Jatin Das on his Death Centenary.
116 September 12, 2011	CM holds meeting of the North Bengal Development Council to workout a comprehensive strategy of the NBDC to expedite its development programmes. CM pays homage to litterateur Bhibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay at Writers' on his 117th Birth Anniversary.
115 September 11, 2011	Trinamool-led Government takes new initiatives to curb child marriage. Hospital Superintendents in state hospitals asked to text message CM`s office every morning and report.
114 September 10, 2011	CM meets MD of Jindal Group, decided that process of Shalboni Steel Project will resume after Durga Puja. Chief Minister pays homage to legendary revolutionary leader Bagha Jatin or Jatindranath Mukhopadhyay at Writers' on his Death Anniversary.
113 September 09, 2011	Chief Minister invites Jindal Steel`s Managing Director Sajjan Jindal for talks to expedite Salboni steel plant. Trinamool-led Government introduces 13 Human Rights courts in different districts for the people of the State.
112 September 08, 2011	Trinamool-led government decides to withdraw the Special Leave Petition (SLP) filed in the Supreme Court by the previous government to shield the guilty police officers at the Nandigram massacre and give CBI a free hand.
111 September 07, 2011	Industry Minister announces that there is need for greater industry-academia interaction and collaboration which would help in reducing the poverty level and that the government has also decided to revamp the higher education system.
110 September 06, 2011	CM convenes meeting of the State Cabinet to discuss developmental issues. Education Minister meets the Governor to discuss education reforms.
109 September 05, 2011	Chief Minister meets US Charge d`Affairs in India, Peter Burleigh, discusses investment opportunities in Paschimbanga. CM`s stand forces Center to cancel the anti-Bengal Teesta treaty with Bangladesh. CM pays homage to Dr Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan on his Birth Anniversary, celebrated all over the nation as Teacher`s Day.
108 September 04, 2011	Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee agrees to deliver the sixth convocation address at St. Xavier`s College, Kolkata. Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee refuses to accompany Prime Minister Mr. Manmohan Singh on Bangladesh visit beginning tomorrow as the Teesta Treaty to be signed had anti-Bengal impact.
107 September 03, 2011	Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee meets Union Rural Development Minister Mr. Jairam Ramesh, agrees on the draft Land Bill on land acquisition.
106 September 02, 2011	The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration Bill 2011 is passed in the West Bengal Assembly. The State Assembly unanimously passes the proposal to change the state`s name to Paschimbanga in English language as well. Ms. Mamata Banerjee files her nomination at Alipore Survey Building for the State Assembly By-elections, contesting from Bhowanipore constituency.
105 September 01, 2011	Chief Minister pays tribute to the martyrs of the Food Movement at Writers'. CM meets the National Security Adviser at Writers'.
104 August 31, 2011	CM offers her best wishes on Eid, expresses solidarity and fraternity.
103 August 30, 2011	CM forms task-force to curb artificial price rise of daily necessities.
102 August 29, 2011	CM holds meeting at Writers' to curb price rise, warns to take action against traders creating artificial shortage of daily necessities. CM pays homage to Kazi Najrul Islam on his Death Anniversary.
101 August 28, 2011	CM addresses to students at a symposium at Netaji Indoor Stadium.
100 August 27, 2011	Trinamool-led government completes 100 glorious days serving Ma, Mati, Manush. CM, along with Union Home Minister inaugurates modernized Check Post at Petrapole, Indo-Bangladesh border. CM pays surprise visit to Gariahat and Koley market, checks reasons of price rise.
99 August 26, 2011	CM meets the interlocutors and discusses the talk process regarding Maoist issues at Jangalmahal.
98 August 25, 2011	CM signals to Maoists that they must give up violence and adopt a non-partisan approach. Presidency Mentor Group, led by Dr. Sugata Bose submits its report to CM within two months.
97 August 24, 2011	CM announce that State Health Ministry will train fifty thousand women to meet the shortage of nurses in the state.
96 August 23, 2011	CM requests political parties not to resort to bandhs as a mode of protest and opines legislation is required to counter bandhs, strikes and blockades. CM tables a book in the Assembly containing the achievements of Ma, Mati, Manush Government in 90 days.
95 August 22, 2011	Trinamool-led government fulfill promises, Kanoria Jute Mill reopens. CM pays homage to celebrated singer Debabrata Biswas on his Birth Anniversary. Trinamool-led government takes step to introduce system of sending driving licences and smart cards by post in an attempt to tackle illegal activities.
94 August 21, 2011	Prime Minister promises West Bengal CM to help the state `within the constitutional limits` to rebuild its economy. CM requests industrialists not to pay those who seek money in the name of AITMC in order to curb illegal activities to tarnish the Party's name.
93 August 20, 2011	All India Trinamool Congress launches its 'Mission 2013' to oust the Left Front from power in Tripura. Chief Minister pays homage to Rajiv Gandhi on his Birth Anniversary.
92 August 19, 2011	Trinamool Congress representatives Debabrata Bandyopadhyay, Derek O' Brien, Srinjoy Bose and Sukhendu Sekhar Roy take oath in Rajya Sabha as new members. After the end of All Party meeting initiated by Trinamool Government, the new name proposed for West Bengal decided is Poschimbongo, the proposed name will come into effect after President of India approves.
91 August 18, 2011	CM introduces Kisan Credit Card scheme.
90 August 17, 2011	The Trinamool-led government requests Centre to extend the ambit of the mid-day meal scheme to include students up to Class X. The Trinamool-led government announces festival sops and benefits for its employees and pensioners.
89 August 16, 2011	Ms. Mamata Banerjee advises her ministers, MLAs and MPs to get closer to the people and identify the glitches in the delivery mechanism in a meeting at the Town Hall.
88 August 15, 2011	CM hoists the National Flag in front of the Writer`s Building. CM visits Alipore Central Correctional Home in Kolkata on the occasion of Independence day and pays tributes to freedom fighters.
87 August 14, 2011	Chief Minister instruct ministers to visit flood affected areas and inspect the relief works.
86 August 13, 2011	Chief Minister spreads the message of universal fraternity through Rakshabandhan.
85 August 12, 2011	CM urges Left Radicals to lay down arms and come back to society, assures that her government will help them financially. CM`s action plans for improving healthcare in the state includes strengthening of infrastructure and manpower in medical colleges and improving health services. CM visits Udaynaraynpur, inspects flood situation and rescue operation.
84 August 11, 2011	CM`s action plans for improving healthcare in the state includes strengthening of infrastructure and manpower in medical colleges and improving health services.
83 August 10, 2011	CM urges Disaster Management Department to stand-by in the wake of possible flood situation. IT Department of Trinamool-led Government in association with Nasscom sets up a cyber crime laboratory in Kolkata.
82 August 09, 2011	CM inaugurates Geetanjali Stadium at Kasba. CM pays respect to Gurusaday Datta by introducing Bratachari activities in primary schools.
81 August 08, 2011	Trinamool-led government celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Kabiguru Rabindranath Tagore in a grand way. Four padayatras, one led by the Chief Minister and consisting school children, dignitaries and Tagore-admirers from four different points of the city, march towards Shaheed Minar.
80 August 07, 2011	Trinamool-led Government to set up Eastern India's biggest film city on a 350-acre plot in Hooghly's Uttarpara. CM, along with Union Home Minister inaugurates modernized Check Post at Petrapole, Indo-Bangladesh border.
79 August 06, 2011	CM initiates Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore's 150th birth anniversary celebrations from the State Secretariat by announcing the setting up of a Centre for Research on the poet at Rajarhat.
78 August 05, 2011	CM tells heads of Trinamool Congress-run municipalities and municipal corporations to search for alternative revenue and not to depend solely on the government to bail out of crisis. Minister of Industry calls upon representatives of Jindal Group, asks to speed up Shalboni projects.
77 August 04, 2011	Family members of Netai victims call upon CM, gets help and assurance. Trinamool-led government is drafting a new Information Technology policy after consultations with IT experts Sam Pitroda and N.R. Narayana Murthy.
76 August 03, 2011	After the All-Party Meet, CM announces formation of team consisting Leader of Opposition and Industry Minister to discuss the issue of changing the name of the state with experts. CM meets GJM leaders, discuss Hill issues.
75 August 02, 2011	CM pays homage to Acharya Prafulla Chandra Roy on his Birth Anniversary. CM inaugurates pilot project for beautification of Kolkata riverside.
74 August 01, 2011	CM asks investors from Singapore to invest in different sectors in the state. Bidhan Parishad to be brought back in West Bengal, committee formed by Trinamool-led government reports in favourof forming Bidhan Parishad.
73 July 31, 2011	Chief Minister and Chairperson of Trinamool Congress meets leaders and elected representatives of AITMC from South Bengal.
72 July 30, 2011	CM meets Retd. Justice Rajinder Sachar to discuss Minority Community Development issues. CM announces placing a bill for government job quotas for Muslims while handing out several other schemes for minority communities.
71 July 29, 2011	CM gives the consent for talks with Maoists after receiving positive response from the rebel leadership to the government`s peace initiative in Jungle Mahal.
70 July 28, 2011	West Bengal Government to celebrate Rabindra Jayanti from 8th to 10th August, announces CM. Plea to Center to declare 22nd Shraban, Death Anniversary of Kabiguru Rabindranath Tagore a Special Holiday by Trinamool-led government. CM writes to Airport Authority of India to set up five more airports at Malda, Balurghat, Sunderbans, Digha, and Asansol.
69 July 27, 2011	Trinamool Congress pays homage to the martyrs of Nanoor, observes Nanoor Dibas
68 July 26, 2011	Trinamool-led government asks for status report from the Jindals on their proposed steel plant at Salboni in West Midnapore CM meets team of police officials regarding state security
67 July 25, 2011	N. R. Narayana Murthy accepts to be the Chief Mentor of the State IT Committee Finance Minister announces implementation of e-governance in 5 different fields 9 eminent personalities conferred with Bangabibhusan Award, instituted by AITMC-led government today
66 July 24, 2011	CM announces an award in the name of Uttam Kumar to be given for cinematic excellence
65 July 23, 2011	Trinamool Congress to hold rally in Tripura on August 20, Ms. Mamata Banerjee to address the rally CM meets representatives of Tribal Development Committee
64 July 22, 2011	CM meets Governor, discuss Gorkhaland Territorial Administration Bill, healthcare, and cheap rice schemes for Jangal Mahal.
63 July 21, 2011	Ms. Mamata Banerjee reiterates that development is the key issue of the government and will only strive to develop the state in the Shaheed Dibas Rally.
62 July 20, 2011	Trinamool-led government has recommended names of 52 political prisoners to be released, announces CM. State Cabinet decides to form three new Courts, recruitment of more than 6000 to be made in police force.
61 July 19, 2011	CM inaugurates a number of projects for North Bengal from Siliguri, including Railbus service, DEMU sheds, air service from Cooch Behar. Industry Minister announces that industrial land will not be allowed to be used for real estate.
60 July 18, 2011	Trinamool-led government completes 60 days serving the people of West Bengal. Historic Gorkhaland Territorial Agreement signed today in the presence of Union Home Minister and Chief Minister. Trinamool-led government to release 78 under-trial political prisoners after reviewing committee submits its interim report to the CM.
59 July 17, 2011	CM reaches North Bengal, Tripartite Agreement regarding Hill issues to be signed on July 18 at Sukna in the presence of Union Home Minister.
58 July 16, 2011	CM meets Union Finance Minister Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, assured of financial aid for the State. CM meets Mr. Sam Pitroda, Adviser, IT Committee, WB, plans Bengal`s resurgence.
57 July 15, 2011	CM announces that the tripartite agreement between the Central Government, the State Government and the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha will be signed on July 18 at Sukna, Darjeeling district. CM flags off the formation of The Kolkata Museum of Modern Art, which will include art galleries, will focus on the acquisition, restoration, preservation and archiving of art and also have an amphitheater.
56 July 14, 2011	CM inaugurates Forest Week, announces that government will plant more than three crore saplings.
55 July 13, 2011	CM addresses public meeting at Sarenga in Bankura district, announces various packages. Education Minister announces B.Ed a must for teachers of State-aided schools.
54 July 12, 2011	CM addresses rally at Nayagram, and Jhargram in Jangal Mahal, announces development packages. Trinamool MP Dinesh Trivedi becomes Union Railway Minister, Sudip Bandopadhyay becomes MoS- Health.
53 July 11, 2011	CM leaves for Jangal Mahal to oversee ongoing developmental process. Four Trinamool Candidates - Mr. Debabrata Bandyopadhyay, Mr. Derek O' Brien, Mr. Srinjoy Bose and Mr. Sukhendu Sekhar Roy file nomination for Rajya Sabha Elections. Education Minister proposes new education policies.
52 July 10, 2011	Trinamool-led Government decides to institute the Banga Bivushan Award to pay respect to eminent personalities. CM condoles death of passengers in Railways mishaps, speaks with Union MoS, Railways.
51 July 09, 2011	Trinamool-led government orders Juridical Enquiry to be conducted to probe police firing and subsequent deaths of 13 people on July 21, 1993. Trinamool-led government decides to upgrade district hospitals of Purulia, Burdwan, Birbhum, Malda and East Midnapore and Siliguri with private participation.
50 July 08, 2011	Trinamool-led government completes 50 glorious and eventful days serving people of West Bengal. CM meets Prof. Amartya Sen and Prof. Sugata Bose regarding Presidency University Mentor Committee. CM meets members of GJM on Hill developmental issues.
49 July 07, 2011	Trinamool-led government takes decision to free 46 political prisoners, asks a committee of human right activists to hold talks with extremists. CM inaugurates new ticketing system in Metro and flags off various trains.
48 July 06, 2011	Committee instituted to combat flood and famine at the Cabinet Meeting of the West Bengal government. Mr. N. R. Narayana Murthy approached by the West Bengal government to be a part of State IT committee . UK Foreign Office Minister meets CM at Writers`, expresses willingness to invest in Bengal.
47 July 05, 2011	Paschimanchal Unnayan Parishad of the Trinamool-led government announces one crore package towards agricultural development in Jangal Mahal. Bangladeshi Delegation meets CM, invites her to Dhaka.
46 July 04, 2011	CM offers job to a HIV positive patient. CM meets ministers and officials to discuss beautification of Kolkata. CM inspects Brigade Parade Ground for upcoming Shaheed Dibash.
45 July 03, 2011	CM unveils Rs 10-crore plan to beautify the city before the Pujas. Chief Minister plans to set up a heritage culture zone along the Hoogly river bank.
44 July 02, 2011	CM meets FICCI delegates at Writers'. CM visits Dr. B. C. Roy Children`s Hospital and inspect facilities. Draft prepared for digital ration card in West Bengal.
43 July 01, 2011	Trinamool-led government appoints Mr. Sam Pitroda to head State IT panel. CM inaugurates new Press Corner at Writers`. CM emphasizes on e-governance at the 150th anniversary of Calcutta High Court.
42 June 30, 2011	CM announces to form Sidhu Kanu Academy while attending Hool Dibash. National Security Adviser Mr. Shivshankar Menon meets CM, discusses key security issues.
41 June 29, 2011	Dr. Sugata Bose meets CM at Writers`, names the members of the Presidency University Mentor Committee.
40 June 28, 2011	State government constitutes committee to review formation of Bidhan Parishad. Trinamool-led government decides to relieve Darjeeling Hills from CRPF deployment. Standing Committees of the West Bengal Assembly formed.
39 June 27, 2011	Vote on Accounts passed at West Bengal Legislative Assembly. CM pays surprise visit to different departments of the Writers` Building, speaks to the government employees. Trinamool-led government instructs All Women Police Stations to be formed in each subdivision.
38 June 26, 2011	Land Return Forms distributed in Singur. Trinamool-led government plans to seek corporate help to train youths enrolled in employment exchange
37 June 25, 2011	Trinamool-led Government protests hike of fuel price. CM orders lifting of cess on LPG to relieve common people of the state.
36 June 24, 2011	Finance Minister Mr. Amit Mitra presents Vote On Account at the Assembly. The first Industrial Core Committee Meeting held in the presence of the Finance Minister and the Minister of Industry. CM pays surprise visit to Chittaranjan Shishusadan Hospital.
35 June 23, 2011	British High Commissioner to India, Richard Stag meets CM at Writers.
34 June 22, 2011	Trinamool-led government issues notification putting the Singur Land Rehabilitation and Development Bill, 2011, into force. West Bengal Annual Plan 2011-12 finalized after CM`s meeting with Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission. Trinamool-led Government decides to set up 17 industrial clusters to boost growth of small and medium scale industries.
33 June 21, 2011	CM meets the President and the Prime Minister at New Delhi. State Higher Education Minister announces formation of 300 colleges and 10 universities across Bengal in the next five years. Trinamool-led KMC to initiate taxing system based on locality.
32 June 20, 2011	Ms. Mamata Banerjee travels to New Delhi as the Chief Minister for the first time, meets Union Finance Minister. Singur Land Rehabilitation and Development Bill signed by the Governor, the Bill is transformed in to an Act.
31 June 19, 2011	CM closely monitors the threatening flood situation in parts of the State and meets Irrigation Minister, Rural Affairs Minister and Minister for Disaster Management and Relief.
30 June 18, 2011	CM meets around 230 industrialists at Industrialists` Meet at Alipore, Kolkata, forms committee on spots to overcome hurdles.
29 June 17, 2011	CM instructs various departments to tackle the natural calamity with utmost urgency. Finance Minister meets American Assistant Secretary of State at Kolkata.
28 June 16, 2011	CM holds meeting with various departments to ensure disaster management, forms Committee and Control Room.
27 June 15, 2011	CM visits Fire Brigade Head Quarter. CM pays surprise visit to Khadya Bhavan, asks to tabulate all data. Two-member committee appointed by the government submits Land Report. Industry Minister announces that CM will meet industrialists in a conference on June 18.
26 June 14, 2011	The historic Singur Land Rehabilitation and Development Bill passed in Assembly.
25 June 13, 2011	Governor lauds Ma-Mati-Manush Government in his Assembly speech. CM meets Health Officials at Town Hall, urges them to serve in a dedicated manner. State Finance Minister meets Union Finance Minister to solve financial problems. Chief Minister spreads the message of universal fraternity through Rakhshabandhan.
24 June 12, 2011	Union Finance Minister Mr. Pranab Mukherjee lauds CM`s initiative to return the 400 acres of Singur land to the unwilling farmers.
23 June 11, 2011	CM felicitates Higher Secondary toppers at Town Hall.
22 June 10, 2011	CM announces that the Land Reclamation Bill will be tabled in the Assembly. CM meets Madhyamik toppers at Writers'. CM grants recognition to around 10,000 Madrasas, making them eligible to GOI schemes.
21 June 09, 2011	Coal India Chairman meets CM, talks on revival of the closed Mining and Allied Machinery Corporation (MAMC) in Durgapur. CM announces law would take its own course and she would not brook interference by any political party.
20 June 08, 2011	CM holds 3rd Cabinet meeting. Cabinet decides to take in 46,000 teachers at Primary level. Cabinet decides to form West Bengal Health Services Board to directly employ doctors and Health Service staffs.
19 June 07, 2011	Chief Minister visits Sasthya Bhavan, take stock of the situation. Chief Minister meets the Chairman of GAIL. Chief Minister announces meeting with GJM and WB government a success, breaking Darjeeling impasse.
18 June 06, 2011	Chief Minister asks Sports Minister to bid for 37th National Games. The Trinamool-led government starts working on an amendment to the Land Acquisition Act of 1894 to enable the return of 400 acres in Singur to farmers.
17 June 05, 2011	Chief Minister to felicitate Higher Secondary and Madhyamic toppers. Chief Minister instructs Food Minister Jyotipriya Mullick to assess the ground reality in Jangal Mahal area regarding how to deal with shortage of food.
16 June 04, 2011	Chief Minister reiterates that there will be no forcible land acquisition. Chief minister proposes setting up of embankments in Aila-affected parts of North and South 24-Parganas as well as flood-prone East and West Midnapore.
15 June 03, 2011	Chief Minister announces that the teachers will get pension within one month of retirement. Chief Minister receives a team of legislators from Opposition at Writers' Building.
14 June 02, 2011	Chief Minister continues surprise visit to state-run hospitals. Visits Police Hospital at Bhawanipur. Japanese Ambassador calls upon the Chief Minister. Chief Minister officially appeals to build a `team spirit` among government employees.
13 June 01, 2011	Chief Minister pays a surprise visit to Bagha Jatin State General Hospital. Chief Minister announces that tribal people and those having an annual income upto Rs 42,000 in the Jagalmahal area will be entitled to get rice at Rs 2.
12 May 31, 2011	Chief Minister forms different cultural committees. Chief Minister visits Nandan, West Bengal Film Center, take stock of the infrastructure.
11 May 30, 2011	Chief Minister forms two-member committee to submit suggestions on its formulation regarding setting up of a land bank. Chief Minister meets GJP leader Bimal Gurung, who lends support to the Trinamool-led government. Talks on Hill issues begins. Chief Minister addresses West Bengal Assembly for the first time.
10 May 29, 2011	Chief Minister and State Finance Minister meets Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee.
9 May 28, 2011	Industrial Minister Mr. Partha Chatterjee meets Information Technology Majors at Sector V Ms Banerjee announces that 62 secondary schools in the state would be upgraded to Higher Secondary.
8 May 27, 2011	Chief Minister Ms.Mamata Banerjee visits Shambhunath Pandit Hospital. Chief Minister meets Governor of West Bengal Mr. M.K. Narayanan West Bengal Government to set up Land Bank- Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee moves one step forward to fulfill her pre-poll promise.
7 May 26, 2011	Chief Minister visits Bangur Institute of Neuro science. Chief Minister meets five members team led by Roshan Giri to discuss hill issues. Chief Minister pays tribute to Kazi Nazrul Islam' on his birth anniversary. West Bengal Government to set up Kazi Nazrul Academy
6 May 25, 2011	Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee says her government would reopen Sainbari and Kashipur mass murder case. Kolkata Police would be in charge of all the 141 wards under KMC, decision taken in the cabinet meeting. Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee led West Bengal Government to make singur land deal public.
5 May 24, 2011	Chief Minister Ms.Mamata Banerjee meet with Police Superintendents and District Magistrates of all the districts. CM instructs the administration to work without any political prejudice. CM pay a surprise visit to SSKM Hospital and takes a stock of the real picture of Health Administration. Ma,Mati,Manush government pay tribute to Nation builders.Teachers and teaching staffs to get salary on the first day of every month.
4 May 23, 2011	Chief Minister Ms.Mamata Banerjee addresses Trinamool Congress Legislative Party at the Writers` Building. Trinamool-led government shows keenness to revive Basumati Sahitya Mandir. CM meets representatives of 11 employee associations at Writers`.
3 May 22, 2011	Chief Minister Ms.Mamata Banerjee clears Joka-BBD Bag Metro hurdles. Chief Minister asks PWD Minister to prepare a Status Report on Heritage Building.
2 May 21, 2011	Chief Minister sets a new work culture. 'Saturday' turned into a full working day. Decision taken to bring all civic utilities under one roof. Joka and Sector V to be added to Kolkata Municipal Corporation network.
1 May 20, 2011	Ms.Mamata Banerjee takes oath as Chief Minister of Government of West Bengal at 1:01PM 33 Cabinet Ministers and four Ministers of State takes oath. Chief Minister and Council of Minister walks from Raj Bhavan to Writers` Building along with wave of people. First Cabinet Meeting takes place at 6 PM.