Administrative Development: A Journal of HIPA, Shimla. Vol. VII (2)(ii), 2020 CLUSTER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME IN THE MSME SECTOR: EVIDENCE FROM WEST BENGAL Dr. Rintu Nath * Abstract MSME sector is well-regarded as the backbone of the country’s manufacturing output is facing a stiff competition from large scale manufacturers as well as MNCs. In such circumstances, CDP is an important platform and one of the finest schemes for the MSMEs. The key objectives of this scheme are to enhance productivity and capacity building of the MSMEs. Also, strengthen enterprises to combat internal challenges and external threats of the today’s competitive business climate. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of CDP on select MSME clusters in West Bengal, using 8 selected clusters across the state of West Bengal as case study. In order to understand the study aim, the entire study has divided into four sections. It starts with introduction; overview of CDP in the MSME sector in West Bengal is discussed in next section, followed by examination of the impact of CDP on select MSME clusters in West Bengal and finally, concludes the study. The study is based on case study of the eight selected clusters in West Bengal which already have received soft interventions of CDP. A qualitative research approach of the data collection is adopted using a questionnaire comprising of 4 questions relating to soft interventions. Based on this sample comprises of 399 respondents, the results obtained that CDP has a positive effect on MSMEs. The findings can prove useful to the MSME department and its policy makers, new entrepreneurs, researchers, as well as government and academic institutions. Keywords: MSME, interventions, clusters, academic * Assistant Professor of Commerce, Sarat Centenary College, The University of Burdwan, West Bengal, Email id: rintunath.2018@rediffmail.com