Kolkata, April 6 (NationPress) West Bengal has recorded an impressive 11.43 percent increase in Goods & Services Tax (GST) collection for the fiscal year 2024-25 compared to the previous fiscal year 2023-24, as stated by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday.

“In the GST for 2024-2025, we have collected Rs 4,808 crore more than the previous year, reflecting an 11.43 percent growth. This is 2 percent higher than the national average (9.44 percent), highlighting our strengthening internal financial capacity,” asserted the Chief Minister.

She further noted that the state has experienced remarkable growth in the collection of registration and stamp duty during the reviewed fiscal year.

“In registration and stamp duty, the number of registered deeds has surged by 60 thousand, indicating the vibrancy of our market. The collection for 2024-2025 has increased by Rs 1,908 crore compared to the previous year, marking a growth of 31.05 percent,” she stated.

She emphasized that the improved collection figures for both GST and registration/stamp duty demonstrate the state government's commitment to achieving self-reliance and maintaining financial discipline.

Additionally, she asserted that her administration is dedicated to optimizing state finances for the benefit of the people of West Bengal.

However, economic analysts argue that the growth in GST and registration/stamp duty does not provide a comprehensive view of a state government's fiscal discipline.

They noted that true fiscal health is reflected in elements like state revenue generation, expenditure quality, and debt levels. According to the latest Fiscal Health Index: 2025 report released by NITI Aayog earlier this year, West Bengal shows concerning figures in these three economic indicators.

This report evaluates the fiscal year 2022-23 and assesses the financial health of 18 Indian states, placing West Bengal at 16th among them.