FLO Kolkata undertook a significant institutional consultation with Ms. Agnimitra Paul, Hon’ble Minister for Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, Government of West Bengal, marking an important milestone in strengthening public-private collaboration for community development and women’s empowerment.
The meeting commenced with the FLO delegation presenting the organisation’s vision, annual priorities and commitment to supporting government-led initiatives through meaningful citizen engagement and capacity-building programmes. The discussion focused on identifying areas where FLO’s professional network and implementation capabilities could complement the Department’s developmental agenda.
The Hon’ble Minister identified urban cleanliness, sanitation and community participation as key departmental priorities and encouraged FLO to partner in promoting behavioural change through awareness campaigns and citizen-led waste segregation initiatives. She proposed a pilot intervention involving waste segregation infrastructure across selected locations to encourage responsible waste management practices at the community level.
A major outcome of the consultation was the positive response to FLO Kolkata’s proposed Beneficiary Scheme Access Initiative. The Minister recommended that the pilot programme focus on Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) and Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM), enabling women to access government welfare benefits through structured awareness, documentation support and facilitation.
The dialogue also explored opportunities for FLO to support community toilet infrastructure in underserved urban settlements, recognising sanitation as a critical component of public health and dignified living. To accelerate implementation, the Hon’ble Minister connected FLO with the Director General, Swachh Bharat Mission, for detailed discussions on waste segregation and sanitation initiatives in Alipore and Ballygunge. Relevant departmental officials were also designated to facilitate collaboration on beneficiary outreach under the identified welfare schemes.
The consultation concluded with a shared commitment to develop actionable pilot projects capable of creating measurable social impact. The Hon’ble Minister also expressed her willingness to participate in a forthcoming FLO programme, reflecting the Department’s openness towards sustained institutional collaboration. The meeting laid a strong foundation for strategic partnerships that integrate policy, community participation and women’s leadership to drive inclusive urban transformation across West Bengal.