Kolkata: Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's announcement on Monday, confirming the continuation of existing social welfare schemes, alleviated anxiety among over 2 crore Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries. These women were worried whether the monthly financial aid would still be credited to their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts after the government change in West Bengal.
Annapurna Bhandar Rollout
Adhikari also announced that Annapurna Bhandar, another welfare scheme providing Rs 3,000 monthly to women, would be rolled out from June. This scheme was a key promise in the BJP's election manifesto.
After the new government took office, many women receiving Lakshmir Bhandar benefits began inquiring about enrollment for Annapurna Bhandar. The beneficiaries, who rely on the monthly aid for essentials like medicines and children's tuition, expressed relief at the announcement.
Beneficiary Concerns
Jharna Das, a resident of Sonarpur, said, "The money has not yet been credited to my account this month. I was worried if the scheme introduced by the earlier government would now be discontinued. Today, the CM's announcement was a relief. I use the Rs 1,500 to pay for my grandson's tuition."
Basanti Sarkar from Taltala added, "It's good the new government will not scrap the scheme. Until the CM's announcement, I was worried as the aid helps me meet necessary expenses."
Scheme Background
Lakshmir Bhandar was started by the Trinamool government in 2021 for women aged 25 to 60 years. A few months before the election, the amount was increased by Rs 500, making it Rs 1,700 per month for SC/ST women and Rs 1,500 per month for other categories. By early 2026, around 20.6 lakh beneficiaries had enrolled, with over one lakh from Kolkata.
Mangala Rao from Chringrighata said, "I am yet to get the Lakshmir Bhandar money this month, and neither has any of my neighbours. I feared it would be stopped after the government change. The CM has shown me hope."
Meera Naskar, another beneficiary, added, "This time, things are different as the government that started the scheme is no longer in office. It's a big relief for my family that the scheme will continue. I depend on this money to buy medicines."
