DFID examines second phase of investment in Bengal

Kolkata, Nov 24 (UNI) The Department of International Development (DFID) is planning to release its second phase of funding for development projects in West Bengal.

The British development funding agency has asked the state government to prioritise sectors, where the funds can be channelised, UK Minister for Trade, Investment and Foreign Affairs Ian McCartney told mediapersons on the sidelines of an interactive session with the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) here today.

Mr McCartney discussed the matter during his meeting with Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee.

The inputs of the discussion would be forwarded to the DFID board for consideration.

DFID had chosen West Bengal as one of the four partner states in India to work for development projects.

It would contribute 35 million pounds this year for projects that provide among others better health and education to the poorest people in the state, Mr McCartney said.

''The sectors for fund infusion will be fixed upon discussion with the state government and DFID officials,'' he said.

The minister said DFID has a strong monitoring mechanism and examines the projects, which were being carried on in the state, on a regular basis.

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