West Bengal Government Releases Rs 2,900 Crore to Farmers Under Krishak Bandhu Scheme
News Mania Desk/ Agnibeena Ghosh/15th June 2024
The Mamata Banerjee-led government in West Bengal has initiated the disbursal of Rs 2,900 crore directly into the bank accounts of approximately 1.05 crore farmers, including Bargadars, under its Krishak Bandhu (Natun) scheme. This allocation constitutes the first installment of financial assistance for the Kharif season of 2024, with an equal amount planned for the Rabi season later this year, according to a statement by the Chief Minister.
Introduced to support agricultural livelihoods, the Krishak Bandhu (Natun) scheme provides Rs 10,000 per annum to farmers with one acre or more of cultivable land. Those with smaller plots receive a proportionate amount, ensuring a minimum annual payment of Rs 4,000. Since its inception in 2019, the scheme has facilitated a cumulative transfer of Rs 18,234 crore directly into farmers’ accounts, as highlighted by Mamata Banerjee.
Beyond financial aid, the Krishak Bandhu scheme also includes provisions for death compensation, offering Rs 2 lakh to the families of deceased farmers aged between 18 and 60. The Chief Minister noted that so far, 1,12,000 bereaved families in West Bengal have received a total of Rs 2,240 crore through this compensation initiative.
The announcement of the Rs 2,900 crore disbursement to farmers comes shortly after the state government’s decision to increase Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief by 4% for state government employees, effective from April 1, 2024. This adjustment, which deviates from the usual implementation starting in May, aims to alleviate financial pressures on government employees earlier than anticipated. As per the State Finance Department’s notification, the revised DA will reflect in the salaries of government workers from July onwards, impacting a broad spectrum of beneficiaries including government-aided educational institution employees, panchayat workers, municipal staff, and retired government personnel along with their families.
The decision to expedite the DA hike follows thorough review and approval by the Governor, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing public sector remuneration amidst economic challenges.
Mamata Banerjee’s administration continues to prioritize economic support for farmers and government employees alike, underscoring efforts to bolster rural livelihoods and ensure equitable compensation across sectors. The timely release of funds under the Krishak Bandhu scheme underscores the government’s proactive approach in sustaining agricultural productivity and safeguarding farmers’ welfare during critical farming seasons.
Looking forward, the West Bengal government remains committed to ongoing initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable agricultural practices and strengthening social security nets for its workforce. As economic conditions evolve, such initiatives are expected to play a pivotal role in maintaining stability and resilience across the state’s economy, ultimately benefiting its citizens at large.
