West Bengal Launches Annapurna Yojana, Over 28 Lakh Women Receive First Installment

The Government of West Bengal formally launched the Annapurna Yojana at Nabanna, with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announcing the direct transfer of ₹3,000 into the bank accounts of more than 28 lakh women in the first phase. Five beneficiaries were symbolically presented approval letters during the inauguration ceremony, attended by Agnimitra Paul.

The scheme aims to provide monthly financial assistance to eligible women aged 25 to 60 years, with nearly two crore women expected to benefit in the coming phases. Officials stated that beneficiary lists will be updated every seven days to ensure wider coverage and accuracy.

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari credited state administrative officials for enabling the rapid rollout of the programme. Meanwhile, Agnimitra Paul emphasized that strict verification measures have been introduced to ensure transparency, citing concerns over irregularities detected in previous welfare schemes.

Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Agarwal announced that beneficiary lists will be published at block, panchayat, and booth levels, allowing citizens to raise objections against ineligible entries and enabling eligible applicants to seek inclusion. The initiative is being viewed as a significant expansion of women-focused welfare support across the state.