West Bengal Government May Announce a Big Hike in Lakshmir Bhandar Before 2026 Elections
With the 2026 West Bengal Assembly Elections approaching, the ruling party is gearing up for its campaign. One of the most anticipated announcements is an increase in the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme’s allowance from ₹1000-₹1200 to ₹2500 per month. Although the recently announced state budget did not include any raise, political analysts believe that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee might make a significant announcement regarding the scheme six months before the elections.
No Allowance Hike in the Budget, But Expectations Remain High
The 2024-25 West Bengal state budget did not include any mention of increasing the Lakshmir Bhandar allowance. However, the budget document highlighted the following:
✔ Lakshmir Bhandar continues to benefit women aged 25-60 years.
✔ SC/ST women receive ₹1200 per month, while General category women get ₹1000.
✔ The scheme is a key part of West Bengal’s women empowerment initiatives, alongside Kanyashree and Rupashree projects.
Despite the budget not announcing any increment, sources suggest that a major update regarding the scheme may come by the end of this year or early next year.
Why ₹2500? Is BJP’s Delhi Model Influencing This Move?
Many political analysts believe that the possible hike to ₹2500 per month is a direct response to BJP’s “Mahila Samridhi Yojana” in Delhi.
✔ In the Delhi Assembly elections, BJP promised ₹2500 per month to every woman if they won.
✔ After securing victory, the BJP government approved this scheme on March 8, International Women’s Day.
✔ To counter this, the West Bengal government might increase the Lakshmir Bhandar allowance before the 2026 elections.
Women Empowerment and Electoral Strategies
The state government has consistently promoted schemes like Lakshmir Bhandar, Kanyashree, and Rupashree to support women financially. However, with elections nearing, increasing the monthly allowance to ₹2500 could be a game-changing move that directly appeals to women voters.
What Can We Expect Before the Elections?
✔ A major announcement regarding Lakshmir Bhandar is likely in the coming months.
✔ If the allowance is increased to ₹2500, it will be one of the highest financial aid schemes for women in India.
✔ The TMC government may use this as a counter-strategy against BJP’s women-centric schemes.
With the 2026 elections approaching, the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme’s future is set to be a crucial electoral factor. If the increase happens, it could significantly impact the voting choices of women in Bengal.
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