Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme 2026: Complete Guide
The Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme is one of the most important welfare schemes launched by the Government of West Bengal to support women from economically weaker families. The scheme provides monthly financial assistance directly into the bank account of eligible women, helping them manage household expenses and improve their financial stability.
Since its launch, lakhs of women have benefited from this scheme. In 2026, the government announced an increase in the monthly amount, making the scheme even more beneficial.
Latest Update: Increased Amount from February 2026
From February 2026 onwards, the government has increased the monthly financial assistance under the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme.
Updated Monthly Amount:
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General and OBC women: ₹1,500 per month
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SC and ST women: ₹1,700 per month
This increase aims to help women cope with rising living costs and strengthen their economic independence.
What Is the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme?
Lakshmir Bhandar is a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme where the government sends money every month directly to the beneficiary’s bank account. There is no middleman, and the entire amount goes to the registered woman.
The main objective of the scheme is:
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To provide financial security to women
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To support household expenses
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To encourage women’s empowerment
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To improve the quality of life of poor families
Eligibility Criteria for Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme 2026
To apply for this scheme, the applicant must meet the following conditions:
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Must be a woman
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Must be a resident of West Bengal
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Age should be between 25 to 60 years
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Belongs to a low-income household
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Should not be a regular government employee or pension holder
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Must have an Aadhaar-linked bank account
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Must have an active mobile number
Women from SC and ST categories receive a higher monthly amount under this scheme.
Benefits of Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme
The scheme provides several direct and long-term benefits:
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Guaranteed monthly income
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Helps in managing daily household expenses
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Improves financial independence of women
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Direct transfer ensures transparency
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No application or processing fee
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Supports women who are unemployed or homemakers
When Will the Lakshmir Bhandar Payment Be Credited?
Generally, the Lakshmir Bhandar amount is credited once every month, usually in the first week of the month. However, exact dates may vary depending on administrative processes.
After the latest update, beneficiaries started receiving the increased amount from February 2026.
How to Apply for Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme
Women can apply for the scheme through both online and offline methods.
Online Application Process
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Register using your mobile number.
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Fill in personal, Aadhaar, and bank details.
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Upload required documents.
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Submit the form and save your application number.
Offline Application Process
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Visit the nearest Duare Sarkar Camp or municipal office.
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Collect the Lakshmir Bhandar application form.
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Fill the form carefully.
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Attach the required documents.
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Submit the form to the official counter.
Documents Required
To apply for Lakshmir Bhandar, you generally need:
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Aadhaar Card
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Bank passbook (Aadhaar linked)
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Passport size photograph
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Mobile number
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SC/ST certificate (if applicable)
How to Check Lakshmir Bhandar Payment Status
You can check your status by:
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Visiting the official portal and entering your Aadhaar or mobile number
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Checking bank statement for monthly credit
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Visiting Duare Sarkar camps for assistance
Common Questions People Search on Google
Ques 1. Is Lakshmir Bhandar available for all women?
Ans. No. Only eligible women from economically weaker families in West Bengal can apply.
Ques 2. Is there any fee to apply?
Ans. No. The scheme is completely free.
Ques 3. Can a housewife apply?
Ans. Yes. Homemakers and unemployed women can apply if they meet eligibility criteria.
Ques 4. Will the amount increase again in future?
Ans. The government may revise the amount based on budget decisions.
Ques 5. What if payment is not received?
Ans. If payment is delayed, beneficiaries should update bank and Aadhaar details or visit local welfare offices.
Why Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme Is Important in 2026
With inflation and rising costs, monthly support like Lakshmir Bhandar plays a crucial role in:
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Supporting women-led households
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Reducing financial dependency
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Improving access to basic needs
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Strengthening women’s role in family finances
Final Words
The Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme 2026 continues to be one of the strongest welfare initiatives for women in West Bengal. With the increased monthly amount, easy application process, and direct bank transfer system, the scheme offers reliable financial support to those who need it the most.
Women who meet the eligibility criteria should apply as early as possible to start receiving monthly benefits without delay.
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