Kolkata, 14 January (H.S.): The West Bengal government is gearing up to expand its flagship Kanyashree scheme, targeting 1 crore beneficiaries by the end of this year. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has instructed state officials to expedite efforts to achieve this milestone, as the ruling Trinamool Congress eyes the 2026 Assembly elections with a strong focus on welfare programs.

Currently, the scheme benefits around 89 lakh girls, with the state investing ₹15,000 crore. The administration plans to include an additional 11 lakh beneficiaries within this year. At a recent Student Week event, Mamata emphasized the importance of this goal, pushing officials to ensure maximum outreach.

--------

Why the Push This Year?

With the 2026 Assembly elections in sight, Mamata Banerjee intends to leverage welfare schemes like Kanyashree, Lakshmir Bhandar, and Banglar Bari as key tools for voter outreach. Known for her success with such initiatives, Mamata’s models have inspired similar schemes in other states.

The Kanyashree scheme provides financial aid to girls across three stages:

1. ₹1,000 annually to unmarried girls aged 13–18 still in school.

2. A one-time payment of ₹25,000 to unmarried girls pursuing higher secondary education or college upon turning 18.

3. Financial assistance for postgraduate or professional courses.

Senior officials have been directed to ensure smooth implementation across districts, with the Chief Minister personally monitoring progress.

The government is also fast-tracking other student welfare programs:

Sabooj Sathi: Over 1.27 crore bicycles distributed. The next phase starts this month during Mamata’s North Bengal tour.

Aikyashree: Scholarships provided to 4.15 crore minority students, with ₹8,936 crore spent.

Shikshashree: Over 1.39 crore Scheduled Caste students have benefited, with ₹1,063 crore spent.

Medhashree: Benefiting 6.68 lakh students from Other Backward Classes, with ₹53.43 crore spent.

Hindusthan Samachar / SP Singh