Kolkata, 16 April (H.S.) : Ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party has launched the ‘Yuva Shakti Bharosa Card’ scheme aimed at supporting unemployed youth in the state. The initiative was formally unveiled at an event in Kolkata on Thursday in the presence of noted sportspersons Leander Paes and Vijender Singh, where cards were distributed among beneficiaries.

As per the party’s manifesto, the scheme promises financial assistance of ₹3,000 per month to unemployed youth until they secure jobs, with the stated aim of providing economic support during the transition period. The BJP described the initiative as a step towards ensuring dignity, opportunity, and a self-reliant future for the youth of Bengal.

Speaking at the event, Paes said that the youth in Bengal have been among the most deprived and that the scheme is intended to restore their sense of dignity. Vijender Singh highlighted the efforts of the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in promoting sports and youth development across the country, adding that the scheme would strengthen the financial position of young people in the state.

Notably, the announcement comes a day after the BJP introduced the ‘Matrishakti Bharosa Card’ scheme aimed at women.

The party has also set an ambitious target of creating 1 crore jobs and self-employment opportunities over the next five years, positioning the initiative as part of a broader vision to fulfil the aspirations of the state’s youth.

However, the move has triggered political controversy. The ruling Trinamool Congress has questioned the timing of such announcements, alleging that the scheme violates the Model Code of Conduct and is intended to influence voters ahead of the elections.

The TMC has further pointed out that the BJP had earlier criticised state government schemes such as Lakshmir Bhandar and Yuva Sathi, but is now relying on similar financial assistance measures in the run-up to the polls.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh