The West Bengal cabinet has given its approval to the Annapurna scheme, which will provide a monthly assistance of Rs 3000 to women from economically weaker sections of the state. The scheme is set to be implemented from June 1 this year.
Key Features of the Annapurna Scheme
Under the Annapurna scheme, women from families with an annual income of less than Rs 1.5 lakh will be eligible for the monthly assistance of Rs 3000. The scheme aims to empower women and provide financial support to those in need. The state government has allocated a budget of Rs 12,000 crore for the implementation of the scheme.
Eligibility Criteria
- Women must be residents of West Bengal.
- Family annual income should be less than Rs 1.5 lakh.
- Women aged between 25 and 60 years are eligible.
- Applicants should not be income tax payers.
Application Process
Eligible women can apply for the scheme through the designated online portal or at their local block offices. The application process will begin from April 1, and the first installment of the assistance will be credited to the beneficiaries' bank accounts on June 1.
Government's Vision
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that the Annapurna scheme is a step towards ensuring financial independence for women and reducing poverty in the state. She emphasized that the scheme will benefit around 2 crore women across West Bengal. The state government has also set up a dedicated helpline number for any queries related to the scheme.
The cabinet approval comes ahead of the upcoming panchayat elections in the state, with political analysts viewing it as a significant move to woo women voters. However, the government maintains that the scheme is part of its ongoing welfare initiatives for the underprivileged.
