The West Bengal Government has officially rolled out the much-awaited Annapurna Bhandar Scheme (also known as Annapurna Yojana). Announced shortly after the formation of the new government led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, this scheme replaces the previous Lakshmir Bhandar initiative. Effective from June 1, 2026, eligible women across the state will receive a significantly increased financial assistance of ₹3,000 per month directly into their bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Below is the complete guide on eligibility, required documents, and the step-by-step process for online and offline form fill-up.
Annapurna Bhandar Scheme 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
| Scheme Name | Annapurna Bhandar / Annapurna Yojana |
| State | West Bengal |
| Beneficiaries | Women aged 25 to 60 years |
| Monthly Assistance | ₹3,000 per month |
| Mode of Transfer | Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) |
| Launch Date | June 1, 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online Portal & Offline Camps |
Annapurna Bhandar Scheme Eligibility Criteria
To successfully enroll in the Annapurna Bhandar Scheme, applicants must meet the following strict parameters set by the government:
- The applicant must be a woman and a permanent resident of West Bengal.
- The age of the beneficiary must be strictly between 25 and 60 years.
- The applicant must not be employed in any permanent government job, statutory body, municipal body, or government-aided educational institution.
- Women receiving regular pensions from the Central or State government are ineligible.
- The applicant must not be an income taxpayer.
- Existing Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries will be automatically migrated to the Annapurna Bhandar Scheme, provided they pass routine verification (excluding deceased, shifted, or absentee voters identified during SIR-2026).
Important Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card (mandatory for identity and DBT linking).
- Voter ID Card or Ration Card (BPL/AAY/PHH) as proof of residence.
- Active Bank Account Passbook (first page) or a recent bank statement.
- Passport-size photographs.
- Income Certificate issued by local authorities.
- Caste Certificate (if claiming reserved category benefits).
How to Apply Online for Annapurna Bhandar 2026
- Visit the official Annapurna Bhandar Scheme portal (launched on June 1, 2026).
- Click on the “New Application” or “Apply Online” option on the homepage.
- Enter your active mobile number and submit the OTP for verification.
- Fill out the digital application form accurately with your personal, family, and bank details.
- Upload clear scanned copies of all the required documents (Aadhaar, Bank Passbook, etc.).
- Review your details and click on “Submit“. Note down the generated application reference number for future tracking.
Offline Form Fill Up Process
- Visit your nearest designated block office (BDO), municipality office, or government service camp.
- Collect the official Annapurna Bhandar Application Form.
- Fill in your full name, Date of Birth, Aadhaar number, Ration Card number, and bank account details accurately.
- Attach self-attested copies of all the required documents.
- Submit the completed form to the camp counter and securely collect your acknowledgment receipt.
IMPORTANT LINKS
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Offline Form | English | Bengali |
| Official Website | Click Here |
| Home Page | Click Here |
What is the Annapurna Bhandar Scheme in West Bengal?
It is a major women’s welfare initiative replacing the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme, offering direct monthly financial assistance of ₹3,000 to eligible women aged 25 to 60.
Do existing Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries need to apply again?
No, existing beneficiaries will be automatically migrated to the new Annapurna Yojana after standard verification checks.
When will the application process start?
The online portal and offline forms are officially available from June 1, 2026.
