West Bengal Announces Annapurna Bhandar Scheme: Rs 3,000 Monthly for Women

May 12, 2026

Overview

On 11 May 2026, the new BJP government in West Bengal held its first cabinet meeting. After that meeting, they announced a new scheme for women. It is called Annapurna Bhandar. Under this scheme, eligible women will get Rs 3,000 per month. The money will go directly to their bank accounts. The scheme will start on 1 June 2026. It will replace or upgrade the old Lakshmir Bhandar scheme. This topic is useful for state exams and current affairs.

What Is Annapurna Bhandar Scheme?

Annapurna Bhandar is a new welfare scheme for women in West Bengal. The state government will give Rs 3,000 every month to eligible women. The payment will be made through Direct Benefit Transfer. That means money goes straight to the woman’s bank account. No middlemen are involved.

When Was It Announced?

The scheme was announced on 11 May 2026. This happened after the first cabinet meeting of the new BJP government in West Bengal. The government said the scheme will start from 1 June 2026.

How Is It Different from Lakshmir Bhandar?

Lakshmir Bhandar was the old scheme. It was started by the previous government. Under Lakshmir Bhandar:

General category women got Rs 1,500 per month
SC and ST women got Rs 1,700 per month

Now Annapurna Bhandar promises Rs 3,000 per month for all eligible women. That is almost double. So Annapurna Bhandar is either a replacement or a big upgrade over Lakshmir Bhandar.

Is the Scheme Already Working?

No. As of 11 May 2026, the scheme has only been announced. No official government order has been issued yet. The application process has also not started. People are waiting for more details. The government says the rollout will happen on 1 June 2026.

What Is Direct Benefit Transfer?

Direct Benefit Transfer or DBT is a system. Under DBT, the government sends money directly to a person’s bank account. There is no cash in hand. This reduces corruption and delay. The Annapurna Bhandar scheme will use DBT.

Who Are SC and ST?

SC means Scheduled Castes. ST means Scheduled Tribes. These are special groups recognized by the Indian Constitution. The government makes separate welfare rules for them. Under the old Lakshmir Bhandar, SC and ST women got a little more money.

Why Is This Scheme Important?

West Bengal has many women who need financial help. Giving Rs 3,000 per month can help them buy food, pay for children’s education, or save for emergencies. The scheme shows the new government’s focus on women’s welfare.