West Bengal Approves Free Bus Travel and Rs3,000 Monthly Aid for Women

Important Facts for Exams

• West Bengal capital:  Kolkata

• Lakshmir Bhandar:  Existing state welfare scheme for women

• Aadhaar-linked bank accounts:  Used for direct benefit transfer (DBT)

• EWS (Economically Weaker Section):  A category used for welfare and reservation policies

• Annapurna Yojana launch date:  1 June 2026

• Free bus travel start date:  1 June 2026

Exam-Focused Points 

1. West Bengal approved two schemes on  18 May 2026 .

2. Free bus travel  for women on  state-run buses  from  1 June 2026 .

3. Annapurna Yojana  gives  ₹3,000 per month  to eligible women from  1 June 2026 .

4. The scheme is also called  Annapurna Bhandar Scheme .

5. Women already under  Lakshmir Bhandar  will be  automatically included .

6. A  new portal  will open for other women to apply.

7. Likely age limit:  25 to 60 years .

8. Must be a  permanent resident of West Bengal  and name on  voter list .

9. Must have an  Aadhaar-linked bank account .

10. Aim: Help with  household expenses  and  financial security .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When will free bus travel for women start in West Bengal?
A: Free bus travel will start on 1 June 2026.

Q2: How much money will women get under the Annapurna Yojana?
A: They will get ₹3,000 per month.

Q3: Do women already getting Lakshmir Bhandar need to apply separately?
A: No, they will be included automatically.

Q4: What are the age criteria for the Annapurna Yojana?
A: Women aged 25 to 60 years are likely eligible.

Q5: Which bank account is needed to get the monthly aid?
A: An Aadhaar-linked bank account is required for direct benefit transfer.