West Bengal Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme — How to Apply & Benefits

What is Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme?

Lakshmir Bhandar (Lakshmi's Treasure) is a flagship scheme of the West Bengal government that provides monthly financial assistance to women aged 25-60 years. It is one of the largest direct benefit transfer schemes in India, benefiting over 2 crore women across West Bengal.

The scheme provides:

• ₹1,000 per month for SC/ST women
• ₹500 per month for General category women

The amount is credited directly to the beneficiary's bank account every month.

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility Criteria

• Women aged 25 to 60 years
• Must be a resident of West Bengal
• Must hold a Swasthya Sathi card (West Bengal health scheme card)
• Must not be an income tax payer
• Must not be a government employee (state/central) or pensioner
• Must not be receiving ₹500+ monthly from any other state government scheme

Category-wise Benefits

Documents Required

• Aadhaar card
• Swasthya Sathi card (mandatory)
• Bank account details (in the applicant's name)
• Voter ID / address proof
• Caste certificate (for SC/ST women claiming ₹1,000)
• Age proof (birth certificate, school certificate, or Aadhaar)
• Recent photograph

How to Apply

Online Application

1. Visit socialsecurity.wb.gov.in
2. Navigate to the Lakshmir Bhandar section
3. Enter your Swasthya Sathi card number and Aadhaar details
4. Verify through OTP
5. Fill in personal, bank, and address details
6. Upload supporting documents
7. Submit and note the reference number

Offline Application (Duare Sarkar Camps)

1. Attend a Duare Sarkar (Government at Doorstep) camp in your area
2. Carry all original documents and photocopies
3. Officials at the camp will help fill the application
4. Submit the form and collect acknowledgment
5. Camps are held periodically — check with your local panchayat or municipality

Through Bangla Sahayata Kendra

• Visit the nearest Bangla Sahayata Kendra (BSK)
• Staff will assist with the online application
• Carry all original documents

Application Status Check

1. Visit the social security portal
2. Enter your application number or Aadhaar number
3. Check current status — submitted, verified, approved, or payment initiated
4. You can also check through the Lakshmir Bhandar helpline

Processing Time

• Verification: 15-30 days after application
• First payment: Within 45-60 days of approval
• Monthly payments continue automatically thereafter

Important Tips

• Swasthya Sathi card is mandatory — if you don't have one, apply for it first at a Duare Sarkar camp or health department office
• Bank account must be in your name — joint accounts may cause issues; open an individual savings account
• SC/ST women must have valid caste certificate — this determines whether you get ₹1,000 or ₹500
• Duare Sarkar camps are the easiest route — watch for camp announcements in your area
• Keep your mobile number updated — all notifications and OTPs come to your registered number

Frequently Asked Questions

Can married women apply for Lakshmir Bhandar?

Yes, both married and unmarried women aged 25-60 can apply. Marital status is not a criteria.

Can I apply if I already have Swasthya Sathi card in my husband's name?

You need to be a member in the Swasthya Sathi card, but the Lakshmir Bhandar application and bank account must be in your own name.

What if I turn 60 during the benefit period?

Once approved, benefits continue as long as you remain eligible. At age 60, you may become eligible for old age pension instead.

Can government-aided school teachers apply?

If you are a government employee or receive a government pension, you are not eligible. Government-aided school employees may be excluded depending on their employment terms.

Is there an income limit for this scheme?

There is no specific income limit, but income tax payers and government employees are excluded. The scheme primarily targets non-income-tax-paying women.

How do I update my bank account details?

Visit the social security portal or a Bangla Sahayata Kendra to update your bank account information with proper documentation.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. CitizenNest is not affiliated with the West Bengal government. Visit socialsecurity.wb.gov.in for official information.