Massive Turnout for Bengal's Yuva Sathi Scheme: 2 Lakh Applicants on Day One
In a significant display of public response, approximately 200,000 citizens flocked to 294 camps across West Bengal on Sunday to apply for the state government's Yuva Sathi scheme. The initiative offers a monthly allowance of Rs 1,500 to unemployed youth aged 21 to 40 who have passed Class X, with registration officially commencing on Sunday.
Overwhelming Queues and Early Arrivals
At camps located in every assembly constituency, queues began forming as early as 8:30 AM, despite enrollment only starting at 11 AM. Many applicants expressed that the allowance would provide crucial financial support while they search for stable employment. "This scheme will give me some additional funds till I get a government job," said Souvik Porel, a 29-year-old commerce graduate from Behala who lost his job during the Covid pandemic and now works as a private tutor.
Porel, who was the first in line at the Abahan Community Hall in Behala, noted that the queue swelled to around 400 people by the time the gates opened. The camps will operate daily from 11 AM to 5 PM until February 26, with about 18 camps specifically set up in Kolkata.
Government Response and Political Sparring
Bengal Industries Minister Shashi Panja, who supervised a camp in Shyampukur, described the turnout as "overwhelming" and highlighted the government's rapid arrangements. "This proves the CM's announcement is enough for them," she stated, referring to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's initiative.
However, the scheme has sparked political debate. Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari questioned the need for physical camps instead of an online system and raised concerns about the scheme's longevity, citing a similar 2013 initiative that he claims was effectively terminated due to lack of funding. In response, the Trinamool Congress dismissed the criticism, accusing the BJP-led central government of failing to generate sufficient employment and reaffirming the state's commitment to job seekers.
Scheme Details and Future Outlook
The Yuva Sathi scheme, announced in the state government's vote-on-account for 2026-27, has an allocated budget of Rs 5,000 crore and is estimated to benefit 27.8 lakh people. Originally scheduled to begin payments from August 15, the CM later advanced the start date to April 1. This rollout comes as Bengal's assembly polls are anticipated in the coming months.
Despite the overall smooth process, minor protests erupted at camps in Malda's Chanchal and Dakshin Dinajpur's Chopra over alleged delays in form processing, with proceedings resuming after police intervention.
As registrations continue, the Yuva Sathi scheme represents a significant effort by the West Bengal government to address youth unemployment, with day one demonstrating substantial public interest and engagement.
