The Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme (also known as Laxmi Bhandar or Lakshmir Bhandar) is West Bengal’s flagship women empowerment program providing monthly financial assistance to economically disadvantaged women. With over 2.11 crore beneficiaries receiving direct cash transfers, this scheme has become a lifeline for millions of households across the state. This comprehensive guide covers everything about Lakshmi Bhandar benefits amount, beneficiary list checking process, eligibility criteria, and the latest 2026 updates.
Latest Update: Lakshmi Bhandar Payment Increase 2026
The West Bengal Government announced a significant increase in Lakshmi Bhandar payment amounts in the Interim Budget 2026-27:
New Monthly Benefits (Effective 2026):
- SC/ST Category Women: ₹1,700 per month (₹20,400 annually)
- General/OBC Category Women: ₹1,500 per month (₹18,000 annually)
This represents an increase of ₹500 per month for all beneficiaries, reinforcing the government’s commitment to women’s financial empowerment ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.
Quick Facts About Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme (লক্ষ্মীর ভাণ্ডার প্রকল্প) |
| Launched | February 2021 |
| Implementing Department | Department of Women & Child Development and Social Welfare, West Bengal |
| Total Beneficiaries | 2.11+ Crore Women |
| Total Funds Distributed | ₹63,615 Crore (as of 2025) |
| Payment Mode | Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to Bank Account |
| Official Website | https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in |
Lakshmi Bhandar Benefits Amount 2026
The Lakshmi Bhandar scheme provides monthly financial assistance directly to the bank accounts of eligible women beneficiaries through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
Current Payment Structure
For SC/ST Category Women:
- Monthly Benefit: ₹1,700
- Annual Benefit: ₹20,400
- Previous Amount (2024-25): ₹1,200/month
- Increase: ₹500/month
For General/OBC Category Women:
- Monthly Benefit: ₹1,500
- Annual Benefit: ₹18,000
- Previous Amount (2024-25): ₹1,000/month
- Increase: ₹500/month
Historical Payment Evolution
| Period | SC/ST Category | General Category |
|---|---|---|
| 2021-2023 | ₹1,000/month | ₹500/month |
| 2024-2025 | ₹1,200/month | ₹1,000/month |
| 2026 onwards | ₹1,700/month | ₹1,500/month |
The progressive increase in benefit amounts demonstrates the government’s ongoing commitment to improving women’s economic status and household financial stability.
Lakshmi Bhandar Beneficiary List 2026
How to Check Lakshmi Bhandar Beneficiary List Online
All women who have applied for the Lakshmi Bhandar scheme can check if their name appears on the beneficiary list by following these simple steps:
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/login
- Click on Login: On the homepage, click the “Login” option
- Enter Mobile Number: Enter your registered mobile number
- Get OTP: Click on “Get OTP” button
- Enter OTP: Input the OTP received on your mobile
- Login: Click the “Login” button
- View Beneficiary List: After logging in, click on “Beneficiary List” to check your status
Alternative Method:
- Visit: https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/track-applicant
- Search using: Application ID, Mobile Number, Aadhaar Card Number, or Swasthyasathi Card Number
- View your application and payment status
What Does Being on the Beneficiary List Mean?
If your name appears on the Lakshmi Bhandar beneficiary list, it confirms that:
- Your application has been approved
- You are eligible to receive monthly financial assistance
- Payments will be transferred directly to your Aadhaar-linked bank account
- You are now part of 2.11+ crore women beneficiaries across West Bengal
District-Wise Beneficiary Information
The beneficiary list is available for all 23 districts of West Bengal, including:
- Kolkata, Howrah, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas
- Hooghly, Burdwan (East & West)
- Murshidabad, Nadia, Malda
- Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar
- And all other districts
Lakshmi Bhandar Eligibility Criteria 2026
To receive benefits under the Lakshmi Bhandar scheme, women must meet the following eligibility requirements:
Basic Eligibility Requirements
1. Residential Status:
- Must be a permanent resident of West Bengal
- Domicile certificate may be required
2. Age Criteria:
- Minimum Age: 25 years
- Maximum Age: 60 years
- Note: Upon turning 60, beneficiaries are automatically transferred to the Old Age Pension Scheme with ₹1,000/month
3. Gender:
- Only female residents can apply
- Women heads of households are prioritized
4. Swasthya Sathi Enrollment:
- Must be enrolled under the Swasthya Sathi health scheme
- Swasthya Sathi card is mandatory for application
5. Caste Categories:
- Open to all categories: SC, ST, General, OBC, EWS
- SC/ST beneficiaries receive higher monthly assistance
Who is NOT Eligible?
The following categories of women are not eligible for Lakshmi Bhandar:
❌ Government Employees:
- Permanent employees of Central Government
- State Government employees
- Employees of Statutory Bodies
- Government Undertaking employees
- Panchayat employees
- Municipal Corporation employees
- Municipality employees
- Local Body employees
❌ Educational Institution Staff:
- Teaching staff in government-aided institutions
- Non-teaching staff in government-aided institutions
❌ Pension Recipients:
- Women receiving regular government pension
- Retired government employees
❌ Taxpayers:
- Households with at least one taxpaying member
- Women whose family members file income tax returns
❌ Large Landowners:
- Households owning more than 2 hectares of agricultural land
Lakshmi Bhandar Application Process 2026
The Lakshmi Bhandar scheme follows an offline application process through Duare Sarkar camps and government offices.
How to Apply for Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme
Method 1: Through Duare Sarkar Camps
- Locate Nearby Camp: Find the nearest Duare Sarkar camp in your area
- Collect Application Form: Get the Lakshmi Bhandar application form (available free of cost)
- Fill the Form: Complete all required fields with accurate information
- Camp Assistance: Camp officials will help you fill the form correctly
- Attach Documents: Submit photocopies of all required documents
- Submit Application: Hand over the complete application to camp officials
- Receive Acknowledgment: Get acknowledgment receipt with application number
Method 2: Through Government Offices
For Rural Areas:
- Visit your Block Development Office (BDO)
- Collect and submit the application form at BDO office
For Urban Areas:
- Visit the Sub-Divisional Office (SDO)
- Submit application at SDO office
For Kolkata Municipal Corporation Areas:
- Visit the nearest KMC (Kolkata Municipal Corporation) office
- Submit application at KMC office
Download Lakshmi Bhandar Application Form
While the application process is offline, you can download the form online:
- Visit the official website: https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in
- Download the Lakshmi Bhandar Application Form PDF
- Take a printout of the form
- Fill it with required information
- Submit it at Duare Sarkar camps or government offices with documents
Required Documents for Lakshmi Bhandar 2026
To apply for the Lakshmi Bhandar scheme, prepare the following documents:
Mandatory Documents Checklist
✅ 1. Passport Size Photograph
- Recent color photograph
- 2-3 copies recommended
✅ 2. Swasthya Sathi Card
- Copy of Swasthya Sathi health card
- Mandatory requirement
- Self-attested copy required
✅ 3. Aadhaar Card
- Self-attested copy of Aadhaar card
- Must be linked to mobile number
- Required for DBT
✅ 4. Bank Account Details
- First page of bank passbook (self-attested)
- Must contain: Account holder name, Account number, Bank address
- IFSC code and MICR number clearly visible
- Bank account must be Aadhaar-linked
✅ 5. Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- SC/ST certificate (for SC/ST category applicants)
- Issued by competent authority
- Self-attested copy
✅ 6. Residence Proof
- Any valid document showing West Bengal residence
- Voter ID, Ration Card, or Utility Bill
✅ 7. Self-Declaration Form
- Declaring non-employment in government sector
- Confirming eligibility criteria
- Available at application centers
Important Document Tips
- All photocopies must be self-attested
- Original documents should be carried for verification
- Ensure Aadhaar is linked to bank account for smooth DBT
- Keep mobile number active and updated
Lakshmi Bhandar Payment Status Check 2026
Beneficiaries can track their Lakshmi Bhandar payment status online through multiple methods.
Method 1: Official Portal Login
- Visit: https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/login
- Enter registered mobile number
- Click “Get OTP”
- Enter the OTP received
- Login to your account
- View payment history and status
Method 2: Track Applicant Portal
- Visit: https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/track-applicant
- Select search method:
- Application ID
- Mobile Number
- Aadhaar Card Number
- Swasthyasathi Card Number
- Enter the selected credential
- Click “Search”
- View application status and payment details
Method 3: SMS Status Check
Send an SMS to the helpline number with your application ID to receive status updates.
Payment Schedule
Monthly Payment Dates:
- Payments are typically credited between the 1st and 7th of each month
- Example: October payment is sent in the first week of October
- Direct transfer to beneficiary’s Aadhaar-linked bank account
What If Payment is Delayed?
Common reasons for payment delays:
- Bank Account Issues: Aadhaar not linked to bank account
- Document Verification Pending: Incomplete or incorrect documents
- Data Mismatch: Name/details mismatch between Aadhaar and bank
- Technical Errors: Server issues or system maintenance
Solutions:
- Check Aadhaar-bank linkage status
- Visit nearest Duare Sarkar camp for assistance
- Contact BDO/SDO/KMC office with application ID
- Update incorrect details immediately
- Call helpline: 033-23341563
Benefits of Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme
The Lakshmi Bhandar scheme offers multiple advantages to women beneficiaries and their families:
Financial Benefits
💰 Direct Income Support
- Monthly cash assistance of ₹1,500-₹1,700
- Annual income of ₹18,000-₹20,400
- No intermediaries – direct bank transfer
💰 Household Budget Support
- Helps meet daily household expenses
- Reduces financial stress on families
- Enables better financial planning
💰 Zero Cost
- Completely free scheme
- No application fees
- No processing charges
Social Benefits
👩 Women Empowerment
- Financial independence for women
- Enhanced decision-making power in households
- Improved social status
👨👩👧👦 Family Welfare
- Support for children’s education
- Better nutrition for family members
- Improved healthcare access
🏡 Poverty Reduction
- Assists economically weaker sections
- Reduces household poverty
- Improves standard of living
Administrative Benefits
📱 Easy Access
- Simple online status checking
- Minimal documentation
- Assistance at Duare Sarkar camps
🏦 Transparent System
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
- No corruption or leakage
- Trackable payments
Lakshmi Bhandar vs Other Women Welfare Schemes
Comparison with Similar Schemes
| Feature | Lakshmi Bhandar (WB) | Gruha Lakshmi (Karnataka) | Ladli Behna (MP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Amount | ₹1,500-₹1,700 | ₹2,000 | ₹1,250 |
| Age Limit | 25-60 years | 18+ years | 23-60 years |
| Target Beneficiaries | 2.11 crore | 1.2 crore | 1.3 crore |
| Application Mode | Offline | Both | Offline |
Unique Features of Lakshmi Bhandar
✨ Swasthya Sathi Integration: Mandatory health scheme enrollment ✨ Automatic Transition: Shifts to pension scheme at 60 ✨ Highest Coverage: 2.11+ crore beneficiaries ✨ Progressive Increase: Regular revision of benefit amounts
Common Issues and Solutions
Issue 1: Application Rejected
Possible Reasons:
- Incomplete documents
- Age criteria not met
- Government employee
- Income tax payer in family
Solution:
- Verify eligibility criteria
- Reapply during next Duare Sarkar camp
- Correct document errors
Issue 2: Payment Not Received
Possible Reasons:
- Aadhaar-bank mismatch
- Incorrect bank details
- Account frozen/inactive
Solution:
- Update bank details at nearest office
- Ensure Aadhaar-bank linking
- Activate dormant accounts
Issue 3: Cannot Check Status Online
Possible Reasons:
- Incorrect mobile number
- Application not processed yet
- Portal maintenance
Solution:
- Use alternative search methods (Aadhaar, Application ID)
- Wait for 15-30 days after application
- Visit BDO/SDO office directly
Issue 4: Duplicate Application
Solution:
- Only one application per person allowed
- Cancel duplicate through office visit
- Penal action for false applications
Lakshmi Bhandar Contact Information
Official Helpline
Phone Number: 033-23341563
Email: support.lakhsmirbhandar-wb@nic.in
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Official Website
Main Portal: https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in
Track Status: https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/track-applicant
Department Website: Department of Women & Child Development and Social Welfare
Regional Offices
For district-specific queries, contact your:
- Rural Areas: Block Development Officer (BDO)
- Urban Areas: Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO)
- Kolkata: Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) Office
Future of Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme
Upcoming Enhancements (Expected)
🔮 Expansion Plans
- Addition of 13 lakh new beneficiaries announced
- Budget allocation increased by ₹12,000 crore
- Better coverage in remote areas
🔮 Digital Transformation
- Online application expected in future
- Mobile app for status checking
- AI-based grievance redressal
🔮 Payment Increase Speculation
- Further increase expected before 2026 elections
- Analysts predict potential revision
- Government reserves right to update amounts
Long-term Impact
The Lakshmi Bhandar scheme has already distributed ₹63,615 crore to beneficiaries, making it one of India’s largest direct cash transfer programs for women. The scheme’s impact includes:
- Economic: Increased household purchasing power
- Social: Enhanced women’s status in society
- Political: Strong welfare model for other states
- Administrative: Efficient DBT implementation
Success Stories
Impact on Beneficiary Families
While specific beneficiary details are confidential, the scheme has helped millions of women:
✅ Rural Women: Managing household expenses during agricultural off-seasons ✅ Widows: Financial support without depending on others ✅ Daily Wage Workers: Supplementary income during lean periods ✅ Small Vendors: Capital for microenterprises
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme?
Lakshmi Bhandar (লক্ষ্মীর ভাণ্ডার প্রকল্প) is a financial assistance program by the West Bengal Government providing ₹1,500-₹1,700 monthly to eligible women aged 25-60 years.
2. How much money do beneficiaries receive under Lakshmi Bhandar?
SC/ST women receive ₹1,700/month (₹20,400/year), while General/OBC women receive ₹1,500/month (₹18,000/year) as of 2026.
3. How can I check if my name is in the Lakshmi Bhandar beneficiary list?
Visit https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/login, login with your registered mobile number and OTP, then check the beneficiary list section.
4. Can I apply for Lakshmi Bhandar online?
No, the application process is currently offline through Duare Sarkar camps, BDO offices (rural), SDO offices (urban), or KMC offices (Kolkata).
5. Is Swasthya Sathi card mandatory for Lakshmi Bhandar?
Yes, enrollment in the Swasthya Sathi health scheme is mandatory. However, provisional registration is allowed if you don’t have it yet.
6. Can government employees apply for Lakshmi Bhandar?
No, permanent or retired government employees and those receiving regular salary/pension are not eligible.
7. When will I receive my Lakshmi Bhandar payment?
Payments are credited between the 1st and 7th of each month directly to your Aadhaar-linked bank account.
8. What happens when a beneficiary turns 60?
Benefits automatically transfer to the Old Age Pension Scheme, and the beneficiary continues receiving ₹1,000/month as pension.
9. How can I check my Lakshmi Bhandar payment status?
Visit https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/track-applicant and search using Application ID, Mobile Number, Aadhaar, or Swasthyasathi Card Number.
10. Can widows and unmarried women apply?
Yes, all marital statuses are eligible – unmarried, married, widowed, divorced, or separated women can apply if they meet age and other criteria.
11. Is there any application fee for Lakshmi Bhandar?
No, the application form is provided completely free of cost at Duare Sarkar camps and government offices.
12. What if my Aadhaar is not linked to my bank account?
Your payment will be delayed or rejected. Immediately link your Aadhaar to your bank account by visiting your bank branch.
13. Can I receive Lakshmi Bhandar if my husband is employed?
Yes, as long as your husband is not a government employee, taxpayer, or you don’t own more than 2 hectares of land.
14. How do I update my bank details in Lakshmi Bhandar?
Visit your nearest Duare Sarkar camp, BDO (rural), SDO (urban), or KMC office (Kolkata) with updated bank documents.
15. What documents are needed to apply?
Passport photo, Swasthya Sathi card, Aadhaar card, bank passbook copy, caste certificate (if SC/ST), residence proof, and self-declaration form.
Conclusion
The Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme 2026 stands as a testament to West Bengal’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment and financial inclusion. With over 2.11 crore beneficiaries receiving monthly cash assistance, this scheme has transformed the lives of millions of women across the state.
Key Takeaways
✅ Monthly Benefits: ₹1,700 for SC/ST and ₹1,500 for General/OBC women ✅ Easy Application: Through Duare Sarkar camps and government offices ✅ Direct Transfer: DBT ensures corruption-free payments ✅ Wide Coverage: Available across all 23 districts of West Bengal ✅ Online Tracking: Check beneficiary list and payment status anytime
Next Steps for Applicants
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet all criteria
- Prepare Documents: Collect all required documents
- Find Duare Sarkar Camp: Locate the nearest camp in your area
- Apply: Submit complete application with documents
- Check Status: Regularly monitor your application and payment status online
The recent increase to ₹1,500-₹1,700 per month demonstrates the government’s ongoing commitment to improving women’s financial security. With plans to add 13 lakh more beneficiaries and allocate an additional ₹12,000 crore, the future of Lakshmi Bhandar looks promising.
