Annapurna Bhandar scheme: How to apply, who is eligible, documents needed

The government of West Bengal, under newly sworn-in chief minister Suvendu Adhikari, has launched a new scheme called Annapurna Yojana under the department of women & child development and social welfare.Under this scheme, women living in West Bengal will receive Rs. 3,000 every month directly in their bank account. The money will be credited through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the beneficiary's Aadhaar-linked bank accoun, starting June 1.Who can apply?A woman is not eligible if:Note: One is not eligible if she's in a permanent government employment receiving a regular salary or pension.What about Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries?If a woman is already receiving money under the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme, she'll will be automatically moved to Annapurna Yojana. she does not need to apply again.However, she will not be migrated if she's dead, shifted, deleted or absentee elector during SIR-2026 or deleted from the 2nd list after publication of the draft list, deleted after adjudication or found as ASDD during voter slip distribution.Additionally, if she's filed an appeal before the SIR Tribunal or applied under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, you will continue to receive financial assistance under the new scheme until your application is decided.What documents does one need?Keep the following documents ready before applying:How to apply?Both online and offline options are available for new applicants.A 90-day enrolment drive has been announced to help women across the state register.Once she applies, government officials will verify the application. In rural areas, Block Development Officers (BDOs) will handle verification. Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) will handle verification in urban areas. In Kolkata Municipal Corporation areas, KMC officers will manage the process. District Magistrates will act as the final sanctioning authority in districts, and the KMC Commissioner will do so within KMC limits.Only verified and eligible applicants will begin receiving the monthly assistance.