The West Bengal government has unveiled its interim budget for the financial year 2026–27, outlining a total expenditure of ₹4.06 lakh crore. The budget focuses strongly on social welfare, with special attention given to women, youth, and workers in informal sectors. According to the state government, the new proposals are aimed at strengthening household incomes and improving overall economic security.

One of the most significant highlights of this budget is the expansion of the Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme, a flagship welfare initiative for women. The revised allocation is expected to positively impact millions of families across the state.

Monthly Assistance Increased Under Lakshmi Bhandar

The government has announced a major increase in the monthly financial assistance provided under the Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme. From February 2026, beneficiaries will receive an additional ₹500 per month.

• Women belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities will now receive ₹1,700 per month, compared to the earlier ₹1,200.
• Women from other eligible categories will receive ₹1,500 per month, up from ₹1,000 earlier.

This enhancement has been introduced to help women manage rising living costs and strengthen their financial independence.

Who Is Eligible for the Scheme

To ensure that the benefits reach the intended sections of society, the state government has set clear eligibility criteria:

• The applicant must be a permanent resident of West Bengal
• The woman’s age should be between 25 and 60 years
• The family must be registered under the Swasthya Sathi health scheme
• No family member should be employed in a government job
• Families receiving regular salary or pension from government sources are not eligible

These conditions aim to support women from economically vulnerable households.

Social Security Cover for Gig Workers

In a progressive move, the state government has also announced social security measures for gig workers, including those working through digital platforms and short-term contracts. Under the new proposal, gig workers will be brought under the umbrella of state-run welfare schemes such as Swasthya Sathi.

This decision is expected to benefit thousands of workers engaged in app-based services, delivery jobs, and freelance work by providing access to healthcare and financial protection.

Other Key Budget Announcements

Apart from Lakshmi Bhandar, the budget includes initiatives for youth development, employment generation, and welfare of government employees. The government has emphasized inclusive growth and equitable distribution of resources across urban and rural areas.

According to the finance department, these welfare-oriented measures will also contribute to strengthening the state’s economy in the long run.

Empowering Women Through Direct Financial Support

The increased Lakshmi Bhandar amount is expected to directly benefit women in both rural and urban regions. The additional income can help cover household expenses, healthcare needs, and personal requirements.

The government believes that empowering women financially leads to broader social and economic development. The enhanced payments will be directly credited to beneficiaries’ bank accounts starting February 2026, ensuring transparency and efficiency.