Kolkata: The implementation process of the state's new Annapurna Yojana is set to commence on Wednesday, with application forms being released both online and offline, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on Tuesday. Following an administrative review meeting in Kalyani, the Chief Minister stated that the government has initiated the procedure to convert the existing Lakshmir Bhandar scheme into the Annapurna Yojana.
Continuity of Benefits for Existing Beneficiaries
Addressing concerns among women who were beneficiaries of the previous government's Lakshmir Bhandar aid, Adhikari assured that existing recipients would continue to receive payments under the old scheme until the transition to the Annapurna Yojana is complete. He said, "Just as we are continuing the Swasthya Sathi scheme until its conversion to Ayushman Bharat, the Lakshmir Bhandar will also continue until the Annapurna Yojana is rolled out. People will receive benefits under the old scheme until the Rs 3,000 under the Annapurna Yojana starts reaching their accounts. The process for the Annapurna Yojana begins on Wednesday."
Form Availability and Distribution
Adhikari elaborated that the Annapurna forms, to be released from Nabanna on Wednesday, will be accessible through both online and offline modes. Beneficiaries will need to fill out these forms to avail the benefits. "On Wednesday, in the presence of the concerned minister, the chief secretary, the finance secretary, and other officials at Nabanna, Agnimitra Paul and I will release the Annapurna Yojana form. Detailed guidelines will be announced," Adhikari stated.
Fund Transfer Target and Eligibility
According to sources, the government aims to start transferring funds to beneficiaries' bank accounts from June 1. Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries are expected to receive Rs 3,000 per month. The Chief Minister added, "MLAs will help fill out the forms, while the government will send personnel under the leadership of Block Development Officers (BDOs) door-to-door to assist households." He further emphasized, "Only Indian citizens will be eligible. Government of India funds are not meant for illegal infiltrators from Bangladesh."
