In a groundbreaking initiative, the Government of West Bengal has launched the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme also known by Laxmi Bhandar and Lokkhi Bhandar in February 2021, aimed at uplifting women especially economically weaker sections across the state by providing them with a steady monthly income of Rs-5,00/- to general cast women and Rs-1,000/- to the belongs to SC, ST cast. This scheme, administered by the Women & Child Development and Social Welfare Department, is a significant step towards ensuring financial security and empowerment for women from all walks of life.
What is Lakshmir Bhandar (Lokkhi Bhandar) ?
Lakshmir Bhandar, which translates to ‘Treasure of Lakshmi’, the goddess of wealth, is a program designed to offer financial support to women aged between 25 to 60 years residing in West Bengal. The scheme extends its benefits to all female members of households enrolled under the Swasthyasathi program, ensuring that women from both rural and urban areas can avail themselves of its advantages.
Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme Overviews
| Article Name | Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme |
| Portal Name | Lakshmir Bhandar Portal |
| Launched By | West Bangal State Government |
| Objective | Provide financial assistance to the women of West Bangal |
| Article Category | Social Scheme |
| Amount | Rs-1000/- for General Cast & Rs-1200/- to SC, ST per month |
| Mode | Online/offline |
| Department | Women & Child Development and Social Welfare Department |
| Official Website | socialsecurity.wb.gov.in |
How Does it Work ?
The scheme provides a monthly financial benefit directly deposited into the bank accounts through DBT of eligible women. The amount varies depending on the classification of the household like SC, ST ₹1000 and General cast ₹500, but in the 2024-25 budget, the West Bengal Government decided that women who aren’t from the SC or ST groups will get Rs. 1,000 every month, and those from the SC and ST groups will paid Rs. 1,200 per month.
Recent Developments
As of late 2024, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced an expansion of the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme to include an additional 5 lakh women, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to over 2.2 crore. This expansion demonstrates the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing social security measures for women in West Bengal.
Objectives of the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme
The primary goal of the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme is to ensure that women, especially those who are heads of their households, receive regular financial support. This initiative is crucial for several reasons:
- Economic Independence: By providing a monthly cash transfer, the scheme enables women to manage their household expenses independently.
- Social Empowerment: Financial assistance helps improve the social standing of women in their communities, fostering greater participation in decision-making processes.
- Boosting Local Economies: The scheme aims to stimulate both urban and rural economies by increasing the purchasing power of women, which can lead to enhanced local business activities.
Who is Eligible for Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme
- Women should be resident of West Bangal.
- Her age should not be more than 60 & less than 25.
- Their family should must be enroll in Swasthya Sathi Card Scheme in West Bangal.
- The women applying shouldn’t be working for the government or getting a pension from the government, whether it’s the central or state government, government-run organizations, local governments, schools that get government help, or other related bodies.
- Their family’s land property shouldn’t be more than 2 hectare.
Required Documents Applying for Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme
Following documents are required to enroll in Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme.
- Aadhar Card
- Swasthya Sathi Card
- Cast Certificate ( for eligible women )
- Bank Account details
- Shapath Patra
- Passport size pic
Applying for Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme
To enroll in the scheme, eligible applicants can obtain the application form free of cost at either designated Duare Sarkar Camps or download and print online clicking on the link given below. Along with the completed form, applicants need to submit self-attested copies of essential documents such as the Swasthyasathi Card, Aadhar card, SC/ST certificate (if applicable), bank account details, and a passport-size photograph at Duare Sarkar Camps.
Verification and Approval Process
Applications undergo thorough verification conducted by authorized government officials. After verification, Block Development Officers (BDOs) in rural areas or Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) in urban areas recommend eligible applicants to the District Magistrate for approval. In Kolkata Municipal Corporation areas, the Commissioner oversees this process.
Lakshmir Bhandar Application Status Check by application ID
The women who applied for Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme and now wants to Check there Lakshmi Bhandar Application Status, can check there status using application ID following these methods:
- First of all Visit Lakshmi Bhandar official website which is https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/
- On home page navigate to “Track Application Status” button and click on it.
- Now a new page will open.
- Type your Application ID in designated box.
- Enter the Captcha and Click on “Search” button
- Now the Status of your application would be shown on screen.
Lakshmir Bhandar Application Status Check by Aadhar Number
- Firstly, Visit Lakshmi Bhandar official website
- Click Track Application Status button on home page
- Fill the Aadhar Number in given box.
- Fill the captcha and Click on “Search” button
- Now Status of your Application will be shown on screen.
Note- Applying these methods you can also check your Lakshmi Bhandar Application Status using Mobile Number and Swasthya Sathi Card Number too. You have to just fill the mobile number and Swasthya Sathi Card Number in given box, fill the captcha and click on ” Search” button.
Yearly Verification of the Life Status of beneficiaries
Beneficiaries’ life status is verified annually through an online system managed by the Registrar of Birth and Death.
Financial Management
Funds for the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme are allocated from the budget of the Department of Women and Child Development and Social Welfare, Government of West Bengal. These funds are disbursed monthly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts through a specified portal, ensuring efficient fund management and governance.
Conclusion: A Path to Empowerment
The Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme represents a significant stride towards women’s empowerment and financial inclusion in West Bengal. By providing a reliable source of income to women, the government not only improves their financial well-being but also enhances their social standing and independence. This scheme holds the promise of a brighter future, where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the prosperity of her family and community.
Important Links:
| Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme official Website | Click Here |
| Lakshmir Bhandar Status | Click Here |
| Lakshmir Bhandar Form pdf | Click Here |
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme?
Eligible applicants are women aged between 25 and 60 years who are residents of West Bengal, belong to economically weaker sections, and are enrolled in the “Swasthya Sathi” scheme. Additionally, they should not be permanent or retired government employees receiving a regular salary or pension.
Is there any Charge to apply for the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme?
No, there is no Charge to apply for the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme. The application process is completely free of cost for eligible women in West Bengal.
Can men apply for the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme?
No, the scheme is only for women.
What are the financial benefits provided under the scheme?
Women from Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) households receive ₹1,200 per month, while women from other categories receive ₹1,000 per month.
I am already a beneficiary of another government scheme. Can I apply for Laxmir Bhandar Scheme?
No, individuals who are beneficiaries of other similar government schemes are not eligible to apply for the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme.
Hi, I’m Sandeep Singh, the founder of No1LiveNews.com. By day, I’m a social worker dedicated to sharing essential information about government schemes to ensure that everyone has access to the support they need. In my free time, I indulge my passion for technology and interesting facts, exploring the latest gadgets and fascinating tidbits to share with you. My mission is to blend my professional focus with my personal interests, providing a valuable resource that keeps you informed and engaged.