West Bengal’s social security scheme “Annapurna Yojana” was formally launched today. Minister of Urban Development and also Minister of Women, Child Development and Social Welfare, Agnimitra Paul, inaugurated the scheme at Nabanna. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari 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 people will benefit from this scheme. Initially, the amount will be deposited in more than 28lakh beneficiaries’ accounts. 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 Lakshmir Bhandar scheme, the government is exercising extra caution with the Annapurna Yojana.

 

Right after the inauguration, sanction letters will be handed over to 100 selected beneficiaries in each block and municipal area. Similarly, 100 beneficiaries in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation area will also receive sanction letters. Reports say that the beneficiary lists were finalised based on recommendations from the respective Sub-Divisional Officers, BDOs, and municipal authorities.

 

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.