The West Bengal government has announced a major welfare scheme for women called the Annapurna Yojana.
Under this scheme, eligible women in the state will receive ₹3,000 every month directly into their bank accounts.
The scheme will officially start from June 1, 2026, and the money will be transferred through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
This is being seen as one of the biggest women-focused welfare schemes introduced in West Bengal in recent years.
What Is Annapurna Yojana?
The Annapurna Yojana has been launched by the West Bengal Department of Women and Child Development and Social Welfare.
The main aim of the scheme is to improve the financial condition of women and support low-income families.
The monthly assistance can help women manage important household expenses such as:
Food
Healthcare
Children’s education
Daily household needs
The government says the scheme is designed to strengthen the financial independence of women across the state.
Who Can Get the ₹3,000 Benefit?
According to reports, the scheme will mainly target women between 25 and 60 years of age who are permanent residents of West Bengal.
However, some groups may not be eligible, including:
Income taxpayers
Government employees
Pension beneficiaries
Officials have also indicated that many women already receiving benefits under the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme may be shifted to the new Annapurna Yojana system.
Aadhaar-Linked Bank Account Is Important
The government has made it clear that the financial assistance will only be sent to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.
This means beneficiaries must ensure that:
Their Aadhaar card is linked with their bank account
Bank details are updated correctly
DBT services are active
Without Aadhaar-bank linking, the monthly payment may not be credited.
How to Apply for Annapurna Yojana
The application process for new beneficiaries is expected to begin from June 1.
Women may be able to apply through:
Government portals
Block offices
Duare Sarkar camps
Applicants may need the following documents:
Aadhaar card
Voter ID
Residence proof
Bank account details
Passport-size photographs
The state government has advised people to avoid fake websites and use only official government platforms for registration.
Bengal Government Expanding Welfare Schemes
The Annapurna Yojana is part of a larger welfare push by the West Bengal government.
Along with this scheme, the government has also announced free bus travel for women in state-run buses from June 1.
Experts believe these initiatives could strengthen women-focused welfare support across the state and provide financial relief to many families.
