Here is the whole scheme in one place: what you get, who qualifies, how to apply, and what to check.
| Scheme | Lakshmir Bhandar, now being replaced by Annapurna Yojana |
|---|---|
| Department | Women and Child Development and Social Welfare, Government of West Bengal |
| Benefit | Monthly cash support, Rs 3,000 a month under the new Annapurna Yojana |
| Who can apply | Women resident in West Bengal, aged 25 to 60, who are not income taxpayers |
| How it is paid | Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to an Aadhaar-linked bank account |
| Apply at | socialsecurity.wb.gov.in, Gram Panchayat, municipal offices or government camps |
| Cost to apply | Free |
Key points
- Lakshmir Bhandar is being replaced by Annapurna Yojana from June 1, 2026.
- The new scheme pays Rs 3,000 a month, about double the old amount.
- Existing Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries move over automatically, with no fresh form needed.
- Only women who meet the age, residence and income rules can qualify.
So what do women actually get?
Under the new Annapurna Yojana, eligible women get Rs 3,000 every month.
Earlier under Lakshmir Bhandar, beneficiaries received roughly Rs 1,500 to Rs 1,700 a month, depending on their category.
The money goes directly into the bank account linked with Aadhaar.
Amounts and rules can change, so please confirm the current figures on the official site.
Who can apply, and who cannot?
You must be a woman and a permanent resident of West Bengal.
You must be between 25 and 60 years of age.
Income taxpayers cannot get the benefit.
Women in permanent government service cannot apply. Those who get a regular salary or pension from the state or central government are also excluded.
Those working in teaching or non-teaching roles at government-aided educational institutions are not eligible either.
What is changing from Lakshmir Bhandar to Annapurna?
The state cabinet approved the Annapurna Yojana, and it replaces Lakshmir Bhandar from June 1, 2026.
Existing beneficiaries will be moved over automatically. You do not need to submit a fresh application.
Some beneficiaries may be removed during verification. This includes people who have died, moved away, are duplicates, or are found ineligible.
What documents should you keep ready?
Keep your Aadhaar card and your Voter ID ready.
Keep an address proof, passport size photographs and your bank account details.
Having these ready helps you avoid delays during document checks.
How do you apply online, step by step?
Visit socialsecurity.wb.gov.in and choose your preferred language.
Download the Annapurna Yojana application form, print it and read all the instructions.
Fill in every detail carefully and attach your documents. Then submit the form through the portal once it goes live.
The online portal is expected to be working from June 1, 2026.
- 1Visit the official portalGo to socialsecurity.wb.gov.in and choose your preferred language.
- 2Download the formDownload the Annapurna Yojana application form, print it and read all the instructions.
- 3Fill in and attach documentsFill in every detail carefully and attach your documents such as Aadhaar and Voter ID.
- 4Submit through the portalSubmit the form online once the portal goes live, expected from June 1, 2026.
- 5Or apply offlineOffline applications are accepted at Gram Panchayat and municipal offices.
- 6Wait for verificationOfficials verify your documents in the field. Registration is open for a 90-day window.
Graphic: News Anek, from the facts in this report
Can you apply offline instead?
Yes, offline applications are also accepted. You can apply at Gram Panchayat offices and municipal offices.
Government camps and block offices are also expected to help with registration.
The government says supervisors will visit many households to collect forms, and special camps like Janakalyan Shibir will run from June 15 to June 17.
What happens after you submit the form?
Officials will check your documents and verify your details in the field.
Block Development Officers handle rural applications, and Sub-Divisional Officers handle urban ones.
Eligible applications then go to the District Magistrate for final approval.
Registration is open for a 90-day window, so you do not need to rush.
What if your payment is stuck, or you have a problem?
First, check your status on the official portal, socialsecurity.wb.gov.in.
Keep your Aadhaar linked with your bank account, as DBT depends on it.
Be careful of agents who ask for money to fill forms. Government forms are free, and you should never pay anyone to apply.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to apply again if I already get Lakshmir Bhandar?
No. Existing beneficiaries will be moved to Annapurna Yojana automatically. Some may be removed if verification finds them ineligible.
How much will I get under the new scheme?
The government has announced Rs 3,000 a month under Annapurna Yojana. Please confirm the latest figure on the official site.
Is there a last date to apply?
The government has opened a 90-day registration window, so apply within that period. Check the official site for the exact closing date.
Is there any fee to apply?
No. Application is free. Never pay anyone who offers to help you fill the form.
Can I apply if I am over 60?
No. The current age limit is between 25 and 60 years.
Official links
This guide is based on official scheme rules. Rules and amounts can change, so always confirm on the official website before you apply. News Anek is not a government website.
