Suvendu Adhikari Unveils Annapurna Yojana & Major Policy Shifts

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday announced the rollout of the Annapurna Yojana, set to provide Rs 3,000 per month for women. The scheme will be issued starting May 27, while the current Lakshmir Bhandar scheme remains operational until the transition is complete.

Adhikari revealed the changes after an administrative review meeting in Kalyani, where officials from several districts were present. He emphasized that procedures for the Annapurna Yojana would begin immediately, with forms available through both online and offline channels.

The chief minister clarified that scheme benefits are exclusive to Indian citizens, discouraging access by non-citizens. Additionally, Adhikari announced a restructuring of the AYUSH department, setting it apart from the health sector.

To celebrate Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 12 years in office, the state will hold various events, including tree planting and yoga sessions. Adhikari also discussed upcoming community welfare camps and introduced measures for free bus rides for women with plans to implement a card system later.

Further changes include meal programs at Maa canteens and renaming the grievance platform 'Mukhymantri ke Bolun' to 'Apnar Sarkar ke Bolun'. Regulation of liquor shop licenses near essential places of public interest was also addressed.

(With inputs from agencies.)