In a major move just ahead of the 2026 Assembly Elections, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced the formation of five new ‘Cultural and Development Boards’ aimed at the socio-economic upliftment of marginalized communities. This high-profile announcement, made from the State Secretariat (Nabanna) on Friday, March 13, 2026, is seen as a strategic effort to reach out to specific ST, SC, and OBC vote banks before the election model code of conduct kicks in.

The Beneficiary Communities: The Chief Minister stated that the new boards are being constituted to protect the customary rights and ensure the holistic progress of the following five communities:

1. Munda (ST) Cultural and Development Board
2. Kora (ST) Cultural and Development Board
3. Dom (SC) Cultural and Development Board
4. Kumbhakar (OBC) Cultural and Development Board
5. Sadgope (OBC) Cultural and Development Board

Impact and Implementation: Each of these boards will be allotted specific funds to address infrastructure needs, educational requirements, and the preservation of indigenous cultural heritage. “Our government is committed to the welfare of the backward classes. These boards will empower the communities by giving them a direct say in their own development,” the Chief Minister noted. Political analysts view this as a crucial move to solidify support in rural and semi-urban pockets where these communities hold significant influence. While the opposition has criticized the timing as “voter appeasement,” the administration maintains that this is part of their ongoing mission for inclusive growth across Bengal.