By Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani on Wednesday announced a major investment commitment of ₹50,000 crore in West Bengal by the end of this decade. This substantial investment is expected to boost the state’s economy, create new employment opportunities, and further expand Reliance’s footprint across multiple sectors, including digital services, green energy, and retail.
Ambani made this announcement during his address at the Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS) 2025), the state’s premier business event aimed at attracting investments and fostering industrial growth. He emphasized that the upcoming investment would generate nearly one lakh new jobs in the state, thereby contributing to West Bengal’s socio-economic development.
Reliance’s Long-Standing Commitment to West Bengal
During his speech, Mukesh Ambani reaffirmed Reliance’s strong commitment to West Bengal, stating that the company has already invested ₹50,000 crore in the state over the past decade. With this fresh infusion of another ₹50,000 crore, Reliance’s total investment in Bengal will surpass ₹1 lakh crore by 2030.
Ambani highlighted that Reliance’s previous investments in the state have played a crucial role in developing infrastructure, enhancing digital connectivity, and supporting small businesses through Reliance’s extensive retail and e-commerce networks.
He also acknowledged West Bengal’s strategic position as an economic gateway to eastern and northeastern India, as well as Southeast Asia, making it an attractive destination for industrial growth. “West Bengal is a land of immense potential, rich culture, and a dynamic workforce. Reliance is proud to be a part of its journey toward progress and economic transformation,” Ambani said.
Ambani detailed that the ₹50,000 crore investment would be spread across various high-growth sectors, focusing on the following key areas:
1. Digital Services and Telecommunications
- Reliance Jio, the company’s telecommunications arm, has already played a crucial role in enhancing digital infrastructure in West Bengal.
- With this new investment, Jio plans to expand its 5G network coverage across the entire state, ensuring high-speed internet access even in the most remote areas.
- The investment will also be directed towards improving digital literacy, promoting AI-driven solutions, and enabling businesses in Bengal to leverage cutting-edge technology for growth.
2. Green Energy and Sustainability
- Ambani emphasized Reliance’s commitment to supporting India’s transition to clean and renewable energy.
- A significant portion of the investment will be allocated to setting up solar power projects, green hydrogen production units, and energy-efficient technologies.
- This initiative aligns with India’s carbon neutrality goals and will also support West Bengal’s ambitions to become a leader in sustainable energy solutions.
3. Retail and Consumer Business
- Reliance Retail, one of India’s largest retail chains, will expand its presence in West Bengal, bringing more modern shopping experiences and supporting local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
- The expansion will create new jobs in the retail sector, benefiting thousands of people across urban and rural areas.
- Additionally, Reliance plans to strengthen its supply chain infrastructure, ensuring that farmers and small manufacturers in Bengal can efficiently connect with larger markets.
Impact on Employment and Economic Growth
Mukesh Ambani’s announcement holds immense significance for job creation and economic progress in West Bengal. With an expected 1 lakh new jobs, the investment will directly and indirectly benefit a wide range of professionals, including engineers, IT specialists, retail employees, and renewable energy experts.
Furthermore, Reliance’s expansion in digital services, retail, and green energy will support the development of new industries, attract other investors, and contribute to West Bengal’s GDP growth.
Ambani also highlighted Reliance’s role in nurturing entrepreneurship, stating that the company is committed to empowering startups, small businesses, and self-employed professionals by providing them with access to capital, technology, and a strong distribution network.
West Bengal Government’s Response
The announcement was welcomed by the West Bengal government, which has been actively encouraging investments through business-friendly policies, improved infrastructure, and strategic industrial partnerships.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in her response, stated that Reliance’s investment will be a game-changer for the state’s economic landscape. “We are delighted to have Reliance Industries expand its operations in Bengal. This investment reaffirms the confidence of global businesses in our state’s potential,” she said.
The Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS) has been instrumental in attracting top investors, and Reliance’s renewed commitment is expected to encourage other corporations to explore investment opportunities in the state.
Reliance’s Broader Vision for India
Beyond West Bengal, Mukesh Ambani has been leading Reliance Industries toward a vision of a digital and energy-efficient India.
- Jio has already connected millions of Indians to high-speed internet, revolutionizing the country’s telecom industry.
- Reliance Retail has transformed the shopping experience, making products more accessible to consumers across urban and rural areas.
- The company’s green energy initiatives align with India’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
West Bengal, being an important economic and cultural hub, is set to benefit significantly from this vision. Reliance’s investment will strengthen the state’s industrial base, empower local businesses, and provide new opportunities for economic and social development.
