PM Modi Greets West Bengal on Paschimbanga Divas

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes to the citizens of West Bengal on Paschimbanga Divas, emphasizing the region’s historic role in shaping the cultural, scientific, and socio-political identity of India while pledging federal cooperation for state development.

New Delhi, June 20 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended warm greetings to the people of West Bengal on the occasion of Paschimbanga Divas and said, “I pray for the progress of West Bengal and the prosperity of its people.”

PM Modi took to social media ‘X’ and said, “Warm greetings to my sisters and brothers of West Bengal on the occasion of Paschimbanga Divas. This day celebrates a state that has profoundly shaped India’s history through its contributions to diverse areas, be it literature, music, art, spirituality, science, trade and commerce, social reform and more. Time and again, West Bengal has enriched India’s national consciousness in countless ways.”

“Today, 20th June is of immense significance in West Bengal’s history. This was the day which ensured that West Bengal remains an integral part of India. The role of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee was invaluable in the same. This year, 2026, we are also marking the 125th Jayanti of Dr. Mookerjee,” he said.

PM Modi further said that the central government will work with the West Bengal government to fulfill the dreams of people.

“The Central Government will work with the West Bengal Government to fulfil the dreams and aspirations of the people. I pray for the progress of West Bengal and the prosperity of its people,” he added.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended greetings and said, “Heartfelt greetings to all the people of the state on West Bengal Day. A land rich in culture, spirituality, knowledge, and science, Bengal has made significant contributions to nation-building—spanning the Bhakti movement, the freedom struggle, and the Renaissance.”

“This land of luminaries like Swami Vivekananda, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, Rabindranath Tagore, Subhash Chandra Bose, and Syama Prasad Mukherjee is now moving towards reclaiming its heritage and glory under the leadership of Modi ji. I pray to Maa Durga for the well-being and prosperity of all the people of the state,” he said.

PM Modi to Visit West Bengal

According to official briefings from the Prime Minister’s Office, Prime Minister Modi will conduct an official visit to West Bengal from June 20-21. The itinerary includes participating in the local Paschimbanga Divas events and leading the 12th International Yoga Day celebrations.

The History of Paschimbanga Divas

Paschimbanga Divas serves as the official foundation day of the state, observed annually on June 20. The milestone commemorates the cultural legacy, distinct history, and legal steps that established the modern boundaries of West Bengal.

The historical foundation relies on events from 1947. On this specific date, the Bengal Legislative Assembly held a decisive vote regarding the partition of Bengal under the Mountbatten Plan. Representatives from Hindu-majority regions overwhelmingly chose partition to align with India, while Muslim-majority representatives voted to join East Pakistan.

History of Paschimbanga Divas

The geopolitical alignment of West Bengal was determined on June 20, 1947, when the Bengal Legislative Assembly met to decide the fate of the province. The dividing vote successfully separated the Hindu-majority western districts from the eastern localities, ensuring the territory remained part of the Indian Union instead of absorbing entirely into East Pakistan. Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee mobilized significant political support during this juncture to advocate for the creation of West Bengal.

FAQs

What is Paschimbanga Divas?

Paschimbanga Divas, celebrated annually on June 20, is the official state foundation day of West Bengal. It marks the historical legislative milestone that ensured the region remained an integral part of the Indian Union.

Why is June 20 significant in West Bengal’s history?

On June 20, 1947, the Bengal Legislative Assembly voted on the partition of Bengal under the Mountbatten Plan. The lawmakers representing the Hindu-majority areas voted decisively to join India, creating modern West Bengal.

What role did Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee play in West Bengal’s formation?

Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee provided critical leadership during the 1947 partition deliberations, successfully advocating for Hindu-majority districts to secure an integration with India rather than entering East Pakistan.

How is the central government marking the occasion in 2026?

In 2026, the central government is celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee alongside West Bengal Day, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the state on June 20-21.