West Bengal Launches Annapurna Bhandar, Triples Women’s Aid to Rs 3,000

West Bengal’s government launched the Annapurna Bhandar scheme on June 1, 2026, replacing the Lakshmir Bhandar program. Eligible women now receive Rs 3,000 per month directly into bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer, up from Rs 1,500-1,700 under the old scheme. The government says 28.25 lakh women began receiving payments on June 4. However, new eligibility rules tied to voter registration and child vaccination have triggered political disputes over beneficiary verification.

Double the Cash, Stricter Rules

The Annapurna Bhandar scheme provides Rs 3,000 monthly to eligible women in West Bengal, a significant increase from the previous Lakshmir Bhandar payments of Rs 1,500 for general categories and Rs 1,700 for SC/ST categories. Payments transfer directly into Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. Women can use the funds for groceries, healthcare, household needs, children’s education, and daily expenses.

The government implemented new eligibility criteria requiring verification linked to electoral rolls and child welfare requirements. Women whose names were deleted from voter lists during the Special Intensive Revision process, or whose appeals for restoration were rejected, lose eligibility. Children must be fully vaccinated and attend recognised schools or institutions.

Verification Controversy Erupts

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari alleged that nearly 30 lakh beneficiaries receiving payments are either non-Indians or absent from voter rolls. The claim triggered immediate political backlash, with supporters demanding thorough verification and opponents questioning the allegation’s basis. The government issued an 11-page application form requiring detailed disclosure of children’s vaccination records and educational status.

Opponents argue the verification process excludes eligible women unfairly. The controversy highlights tensions over welfare scheme administration, voter database accuracy, and identity verification in West Bengal’s politically charged environment.

How Women Apply and Receive Payments

Eligible women apply online through the official portal at socialregistry.wb.gov.in or submit offline application forms in English or Bengali. The Women and Child Development and Social Welfare department manages the scheme. Beneficiaries receive Rs 3,000 directly in bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer, eliminating middlemen.

The scheme targets economically weaker families across West Bengal. Women must provide proof of residence, Aadhaar linkage, and bank account details. The government emphasises preventing ineligible individuals from accessing public funds through the new verification process.

Political Storm Over Beneficiary Numbers

The allegation that 30 lakh beneficiaries lack proper eligibility sparked intense debate over government database accuracy and administration. BJP officials claim the verification drive will prevent fraud and ensure funds reach only eligible women. Opposition parties question whether the government is using welfare schemes for political purposes.

The controversy raises broader questions about voter records, identity verification, and illegal immigration in West Bengal. Whether substantiated or challenged, the dispute is likely to intensify demands for transparency and audits in welfare scheme implementation across the state.

Final Thoughts

West Bengal’s Annapurna Bhandar scheme doubles women’s monthly assistance to Rs 3,000 but ties eligibility to voter registration and child vaccination, sparking verification disputes. The controversy signals ongoing political tension over welfare administration in the state.

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