Annapurna Yojana — Frequently Asked Questions
All your questions about the West Bengal Annapurna Yojana (Annapurna Bhandar Scheme) answered in one place.
What is Annapurna Yojana (Annapurna Bhandar)?
Annapurna Yojana (also called Annapurna Bhandar or Banglar Annapurna Prakalpa) is a women's financial assistance scheme launched by the Government of West Bengal in June 2026. Eligible women receive ₹3,000 per month through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Who launched the Annapurna Yojana?
The scheme was launched by the newly formed BJP government in West Bengal, replacing the previous TMC government's Lakshmir Bhandar scheme. It was officially notified on 19 May 2026 and formally launched on 3 June 2026 at Nabanna.
How much money will I get under Annapurna Yojana?
Eligible women receive ₹3,000 per month, directly credited to their Aadhaar-linked bank account via DBT.
What is the age limit for Annapurna Yojana?
Women aged 25 to 60 years are eligible. Those below 25 or above 60 years cannot apply.
Can a government employee apply for Annapurna Yojana?
No. Anyone engaged in permanent government employment or receiving a regular salary or pension from the Union or West Bengal government, any statutory body, government undertaking, panchayat, municipal body, or local authority is not eligible.
Can an income tax payer apply?
No. Individuals who are income tax payers are not eligible for the scheme.
Do I need to apply if I already receive Lakshmir Bhandar?
No, existing Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries are being automatically migrated to Annapurna Yojana after verification. You do not need to re-apply.
Will all Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries get migrated?
Not all. Approximately 30 lakh ineligible records (deceased, shifted, duplicate, absentee electors) are being removed during the verification process.
How can I apply for Annapurna Yojana?
You can apply online at socialsecurity.wb.gov.in or download the offline form (available in Bengali, English, Hindi) and submit it at your local ration office or BDO office.
What documents are needed for the application?
Aadhaar card, voter ID, bank account passbook/cancelled cheque (Aadhaar-linked), recent photograph, and residence proof.
What is the last date to apply for Annapurna Yojana?
The application window is open for 90 days from 27 May 2026 to 25 August 2026.
When will the ₹3,000 payment start?
Payments began on 3 June 2026 for migrated Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries. New applicants will receive payments after their application is verified and approved.
How will I receive the payment?
The amount will be directly credited to your Aadhaar-linked bank account through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
How can I check my Annapurna Yojana application status?
Visit socialsecurity.wb.gov.in, log in, and check the application status section using your reference number or Aadhaar number.
Why was my name removed from the beneficiary list?
Possible reasons: identified as deceased, shifted out of state, duplicate entry, absentee elector in SIR-2026, or found ineligible after adjudication.
Can I appeal if my name is removed?
Yes, beneficiaries who have filed appeals before the SIR Tribunal or submitted applications under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act will continue to receive benefits until their applications are disposed of.
What is the difference between Annapurna Yojana and Central Annapurna Scheme?
The Central Annapurna Scheme provides 10 kg free food grains to destitute senior citizens (65+). West Bengal's Annapurna Yojana provides ₹3,000/month cash to women aged 25-60. They are completely different.
Is Annapurna Bhandar the same as Mukhyamantri Annapurna Yojana?
No. Mukhyamantri Annapurna Yojana is a different scheme implemented in other states like Goa and Uttarakhand. West Bengal's scheme is officially called Annapurna Yojana.
Is this website official? Can I apply here?
No, this is an independent informational website. It is NOT affiliated with the Government of West Bengal. To apply, visit the official portal at socialsecurity.wb.gov.in or your local ration office.
Who can I contact for help?
Call the West Bengal WCD helpline at 1967 or email wcdhelpdesk@wb.gov.in for official assistance.