Annapurna Yojana 2026: Complete Guide — Eligibility, Benefits, Application
Annapurna Yojana (also known as Annapurna Bhandar Scheme) is the West Bengal government’s flagship women’s financial assistance programme that provides ₹3,000 per month to eligible women through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
What is Annapurna Yojana?
Annapurna Yojana is a welfare scheme launched by the Government of West Bengal in June 2026, replacing the earlier Lakshmir Bhandar scheme. The scheme aims to provide financial security to women from economically weaker sections of society. Eligible women receive ₹3,000 per month directly into their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.
The scheme was officially notified on 19 May 2026 through Notification No. 2411-WCD/O/AB-4/2026 by the Department of Women & Child Development and Social Welfare.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Annapurna Yojana / Annapurna Bhandar |
| Monthly Benefit | ₹3,000 |
| Target Beneficiaries | Eligible women in West Bengal |
| Total Estimated Beneficiaries | ~2 Crore |
| Payment Mode | DBT to Aadhaar-linked Bank Account |
| Launch Date | 1 June 2026 (portal), 3 June 2026 (formal) |
| Application Period | 27 May 2026 to 25 August 2026 |
| Nodal Department | Women & Child Development and Social Welfare |
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for Annapurna Yojana, you must meet these requirements:
- Age: 25 to 60 years
- Residency: Permanent resident of West Bengal
- Bank Account: Must have an Aadhaar-linked bank account
You are NOT eligible if you are:
- A government employee or pensioner
- An income tax payer
- A teacher or staff in government-aided educational institutions
- Below 25 or above 60 years of age
How to Apply
Online Method:
- Visit socialsecurity.wb.gov.in
- Register with Aadhaar and mobile number
- Fill the application form with personal and bank details
- Upload required documents
- Submit and save the reference number
Offline Method:
- Download the application form (Bengali, English, or Hindi)
- Fill it with accurate details
- Attach self-attested copies of documents
- Submit at your local ration office or BDO office
- Collect the acknowledgement slip
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card (must be linked to bank account)
- Voter ID Card
- Bank Account Passbook or Cancelled Cheque
- Recent Passport-size Photograph
- Residence Proof (Ration Card, Utility Bill, etc.)
Payment Details
The first payments began on 3 June 2026 for migrated Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries. Initially, more than 28 lakh beneficiaries received the payment. The beneficiary list is updated every 7 days.
Annapurna Yojana vs Lakshmir Bhandar
| Feature | Annapurna Yojana | Lakshmir Bhandar |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Benefit | ₹3,000 (uniform) | ₹1,000-1,700 (category-based) |
| Free Bus Travel | ✓ Included | ✗ Not available |
| Verification | Strict (SIR-2026 based) | Standard |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do existing Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries need to reapply? A: No, they are automatically migrated after verification.
Q: What is the last date to apply? A: 25 August 2026 (90-day window from 27 May 2026).
Q: How can I check my application status? A: Visit the official portal at socialsecurity.wb.gov.in and log in with your credentials.
Q: Is this scheme only for SC/ST women? A: No, it is for all eligible women in West Bengal regardless of category.
For official information, visit the West Bengal Annapurna Yojana Portal at socialsecurity.wb.gov.in or call helpline 1967.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For official information, visit the West Bengal government's official portal at socialsecurity.wb.gov.in.