West Bengal Sabuj Sathi Scheme 2025 – Complete Guide

What is Sabuj Sathi Scheme?

Sabuj Sathi (meaning "Green Companion") is a flagship scheme by the Government of West Bengal launched in September 2015. Under this scheme, free bicycles are distributed to students of Class 9 to Class 12 studying in government and government-aided schools across the state.

The scheme addresses the major problem of school dropout in rural areas caused by long commuting distances. By providing personal transportation, Sabuj Sathi aims to improve attendance, reduce dropouts, and encourage students — especially girls — to continue their education.

Since its launch, the scheme has distributed over 1 crore bicycles to students across West Bengal, making it one of the largest student welfare programs in India.

Disclaimer: CitizenNest is an independent informational platform and is not affiliated with any government body. Verify details on the official Sabuj Sathi portal.

Who is Eligible?

To receive a free bicycle under Sabuj Sathi, the student must meet these criteria:

• Class: Must be enrolled in Class 9, 10, 11, or 12
• School Type: Must be studying in a government, government-aided, or government-sponsored school in West Bengal
• Domicile: Must be a resident of West Bengal
• No Prior Benefit: Should not have received a bicycle under this scheme before
• Gender: Both boys and girls are eligible (girls often receive priority in distribution)

Who is NOT Eligible?

• Students in private unaided schools
• Students below Class 9 or above Class 12
• Students who have already received a Sabuj Sathi bicycle
• Students studying outside West Bengal

Documents Required

Mandatory Documents

• School identity card
• Aadhaar card of the student
• Admission receipt or school enrollment proof
• Student's photograph

Additional Documents

• Parent/guardian's Aadhaar card
• Residential proof (if needed for verification)

Note: For Sabuj Sathi, the documentation process is minimal because the school handles most of the application on behalf of students.

How to Get Your Free Bicycle – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Enrollment Verification

Your school automatically prepares the list of eligible students. There is usually no separate application needed from the student's side.

Step 2: School Submits List

The headmaster/principal submits the list of eligible students to the Block Education Officer (BEO) or District Inspector of Schools (DIS).

Step 3: List Verification

The district education department verifies the student list against enrollment records.

Step 4: Distribution Event

Bicycles are distributed at school-level or block-level events. Students are informed by their school about the date and location.

Step 5: Collect Your Bicycle

Attend the distribution event with your school ID and Aadhaar card. You (or your parent/guardian) will sign an acknowledgment receipt.

Step 6: Check Online Status

You can verify your bicycle allotment status on the official Sabuj Sathi portal:

1. Visit the website
2. Enter your district, block, and school name
3. Check your name in the beneficiary list

Bicycle Details

Processing Time

• List Preparation: Done by schools (usually at the start of the academic session)
• Verification: 1–2 months
• Distribution: Typically within the academic year, often around August–December

Important Tips

1. Ensure your enrollment is up to date — if you recently transferred schools, make sure your new school has added you to the Sabuj Sathi list.
2. Carry your Aadhaar and school ID to the distribution event without fail.
3. Report to your school if you haven't received information about the bicycle — the headmaster can check your status.
4. Take care of the bicycle — while it's free, maintaining it is your responsibility.
5. Girls are given priority in many districts, so female students should ensure they are on the list.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Do I need to apply separately for the Sabuj Sathi bicycle?

A: No. Your school prepares the list of eligible students and submits it to the education department. You don't need to fill any separate application form.

Q2: Can private school students get a free bicycle?

A: No. The scheme is only for students in government, government-aided, or government-sponsored schools in West Bengal.

Q3: I am in Class 9. Am I eligible?

A: Yes. Students from Class 9 to Class 12 are eligible for the Sabuj Sathi bicycle.

Q4: Can I get a second bicycle if my first one was stolen or damaged?

A: Generally, no. The scheme provides one bicycle per student. If yours is stolen, file a police complaint and check with your school, but replacement is not guaranteed.

Q5: How can I check my name in the Sabuj Sathi beneficiary list?

A: Visit wbsabujsathi.gov.in, select your district, block, and school to search the beneficiary list.

Q6: Is Sabuj Sathi available in Kolkata?

A: Yes, the scheme covers all districts of West Bengal, including Kolkata. However, distribution priority may vary by area.

Q7: Can I also apply for the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship?

A: Yes! Sabuj Sathi and the Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means Scholarship are separate schemes. You can avail both if eligible.

Related Guides

• West Bengal Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme
• WB Swami Vivekananda Scholarship
• Aadhaar Card – How to Apply
• Ration Card Apply Online

Last updated: February 2025. Information is based on publicly available government data. Contact your school or the Sabuj Sathi portal for the latest updates.