Lakshmir Bhandar
The Government of West Bengal has launched Lakshmir Bhandar vide memo No. 3399 – WCD/12099/5/2021 Date: 30.07.2021 which a transformative schemes under the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Encouraging and provides direct financial assistance to women in the FY 2021, who are heads of households, recognizing the primary role in her family welfare and economic stability.
As of February 2026, the monthly financial assistance has been increased by an additional ₹500 for all categories. This brings the total monthly support to ₹1,500 for General/OBC category women and ₹1,700 for SC/ST category women.
Latest Financial Breakdown (2026)
| Category | Previous Amount (Pre-2024) | Revised Amount (2024-25) | Latest Amount (From Feb 2026) | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General / OBC | Rs. 500 | Rs. 1,000 | Rs.1,500 | Rs. 18,000 |
| SC / ST | Rs. 1,000 | Rs. 1,200 | Rs. 1,700 | Rs. 20,400 |
Female heads of household aged 25–60 years. Annual family income below ₹1.5 lakh. Must be a resident of West Bengal. Not a government employee or income taxpayer.
Key Features and Eligibility
- Target Group: Female heads of households or eligible adult female members.
- Age Limit: Women aged between 25 and 60 years. Once a woman crosses 60, she typically transitions to the Old Age Pension scheme.
- Mode of Payment: Funds are transferred via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts to ensure transparency and prevent middlemen.
- Exclusions: Women who are permanent government employees or receive a regular government pension are not eligible.
- Core Requirements: * Must be a permanent resident of West Bengal.
- Must have a Swasthya Sathi card.
- Must have an active, single bank account (joint accounts are generally not accepted).
Necessary Documents for Application
To apply (usually via Duare Sarkar camps), the following are required:
- Aadhaar Card.
- Swasthya Sathi Card.
- SC/ST Certificate (to claim the higher ₹1,700 benefit).
- Bank Passbook (first page with IFSC and Account Number).
- Passport-sized photograph.
Impact and Empowerment
With over 2.4 crore beneficiaries, the scheme serves as a “basic income” model. It allows women to manage daily household expenses, healthcare, and small personal needs independently, significantly strengthening their role in family decision-making.
Apply through Duare Sarkar camps or online at wb.gov.in. Submit Aadhaar card, bank passbook, ration card, and income certificate. Verification done at local level. Funds directly transferred to bank account.
Lakshmir Bhandar beacon of women’s empowerment in West Bengal and directly benefited millions of families. It not only provides financial relief but also boosts the confidence and dignity of women across the state of West Bengal.
Memo No. 3399 – WCD/12099/5/2021 Date: 30.07.2021