The West Bengal government has announced an expansive welfare package for women in its 2026-27 Budget, introducing direct financial assistance, free public transport and education support measures aimed at strengthening economic security and social welfare for women across the state.
The main part of this package is the recently launched Annapurna Scheme, which promises women aged between 25 and 60 years ₹3,000 per month. For this scheme, the government has allocated ₹36,000 crore in the Budget.
This scheme is likely to help lakhs of women directly with monetary support and raise their household income, especially among poor families.
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One more important announcement made by the government says that women living in the state of West Bengal will be allowed free travelling in buses from June 1, 2026. For this facility, the government has budgeted ₹550 crore. The government aims to cut down the daily commuting costs of women who go to work, schools or homes.
Education support for female students
The Budget also proposes one-time financial assistance of ₹50,000 for female students taking admission in undergraduate courses at government and government-aided colleges.
X/ SuvenduWB To implement the scheme, the government has allocated ₹1,000 crore. The assistance is expected to help students meet educational expenses and encourage higher education among women.
The government has also announced enhanced support for pregnant women. Under the revised proposal, eligible beneficiaries will receive financial assistance amounting to ₹21,000, along with six nutrition kits during pregnancy.
The initiative is intended to strengthen maternal healthcare and nutritional support for mothers and newborns.
Push for women's safety and representation
Apart from welfare measures, the Budget outlines steps aimed at improving women's safety and participation in public institutions.
The government has proposed setting up at least one women's police station in every subdivision, while women's help desks will be established across police stations in the state.
In addition, two all-women battalions named after freedom fighter Matangini Hazra and tribal queen Rani Shiromoni have been proposed.
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The Budget also reiterates 33 per cent reservation for women in the proposed recruitment drive to fill government vacancies across departments.
Welfare at the centre of the budget
Women-related announcements constitute an important element of the government's overall plan for social welfare in 2026-27. Through cash transfers, transportation facility, educational schemes and maternal welfare services, the Budget aims to offer opportunities and increased financial security to women throughout the state.
FAQs
Q1. What is the Annapurna Scheme in the West Bengal Budget 2026?
Annapurna Scheme will be providing ₹3,000 every month to women from age group of 25-60 years. ₹36,000 crores have been set aside by the government for the scheme.
Q2. What has been announced for women in the West Bengal Budget 2026?
₹3,000 per month aid through Annapurna Scheme, free bus ride facility, ₹50,000 aid for female college students, improved maternity scheme and increased women safety have been announced.
