The Laxmir Bhandar Scheme, a flagship initiative of the West Bengal Government, continues to empower women across the state. Launched in 2021 under the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the scheme currently benefits over 2.2 crore women by providing direct financial support to economically weaker women aged between 20 and 60 years.
💸 Current Financial Aid Structure:
-
SC/ST Women: ₹1,200 per month
-
General/OBC Women: ₹1,000 per month
📢 Major Update Expected in July:
Sources close to the government indicate that an announcement may be made in July 2025 regarding an increase in monthly assistance:
-
Beneficiaries currently receiving ₹1,000 may start receiving ₹1,500
-
Those getting ₹1,200 may receive ₹1,800
However, the implementation may take 2–3 months, meaning the revised amount could be deposited from October 2025.
🧾 2024 Budget Update Recap:
As per the 2024 State Budget, the amount was increased:
-
SC/ST: From ₹1,000 to ₹1,200
-
General: From ₹500 to ₹1,000
In November 2024, the Chief Minister announced that an additional 5 lakh women would be brought under this scheme, further expanding its reach.
📝 How to Apply for Laxmir Bhandar:
-
Visit the nearest Duare Sarkar Camp to collect the free application form.
-
Fill out the form, attach required documents, and submit it at the camp.
-
Alternatively, submit the form and documents at your local Municipality or BDO Office.
⚙️ Eligibility Criteria:
-
Must be a permanent resident of West Bengal.
-
Women between 25 and 60 years of age.
-
Annual family income must be less than ₹2.1 lakh.
-
No income tax-paying member in the household.
-
Women with more than 2 hectares of land (General category) are not eligible.
-
Government employees or pensioners are not eligible.
-
Must have a single bank account linked with Aadhaar.
📂 Required Documents:
-
Aadhaar Card
-
Swasthya Sathi Card
-
SC/ST Certificate (if applicable)
-
Copy of Bank Passbook
-
Passport-size Colour Photo
-
Mobile Number