West Bengal’s social security scheme “Annapurna Yojana” was formally launched today at Nabanna by the  Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, transferring 3,000 rupees directly into the bank accounts of over 28 lakh women. Five women were symbolically handed approval letters during the ceremony. Minister of Urban Development and Minister of Women, Child Development and Social Welfare, Agnimitra Paul, was present at the event.

 

In the first phase, beneficiaries will start receiving 3,000 rupees directly into their bank accounts from today. It is estimated that nearly two crore women will benefit from this scheme. After every seven days the list will be updated.

Suvendu Adhikari stated that the tireless efforts of state administration officials made it possible to begin the scheme’s operations immediately.

 

Agnimitra Paul added that, because massive fraud was detected in the earlier Lakshmir Bhandar scheme, the government is exercising extra caution with the Annapurna Yojana. Beneficiaries have been given 90 days to register under the scheme. Women between the ages of 25 and 60 will be eligible for this benefit.

 

Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Agarwal added that to ensure transparency, beneficiary lists will be published at block, panchayat, and even booth levels. Citizens can raise objections if ineligible names appear, while eligible applicants left out will have the chance to reapply.

This marks a major step in extending welfare benefits to women across West Bengal.