Kolkata, India: The Government of West Bengal and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration on key development priorities. The MoU was signed between Mr. Prabhat Kumar Mishra, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Finance & Planning and Statistics, Government of West Bengal, and Ms. Angela Lusigi, Resident Representative, UNDP, marking a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. The signing ceremony was graced by the presence of the Hon'ble Chief Minister of West Bengal, Smt. Mamta Banerjee, further underscoring the state’s dedication to this collaborative effort.

Welcoming the partnership, Mr. Prabhat Kumar Mishra said, "This partnership with UNDP underscores the commitment of the Government of West Bengal to sustainable and inclusive growth. By combining innovative financing, data-driven policies, and a focus on climate resilience, we aim to create a future where growth is inclusive and equitable for all.”

Ms. Angela Lusigi, Resident Representative of UNDP India said that, “UNDP is privileged to partner with the Government of West Bengal and reaffirms its commitment to advancing sustainable development through innovative solutions and inclusive approaches. We look forward to working together to create resilient communities and drive progress for sustainable development."

The partnership will focus on development finance, including climate finance to advance human  development. It will establish a gender-sensitive monitoring framework for accountability for data-driven policy-making, strengthen health systems through digital solutions and a One Health approach, and support marginalized communities—especially women—through climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable livelihoods. 

Given West Bengal’s vulnerability to extreme and slow-onset climate events, the collaboration will also develop innovative disaster resilience strategies to enhance preparedness and adaptive capacity.