“LAKSHMI BHANDAR SCHEME”

A project submitted to

Army Institute of Law, Mohali

By
(Vani Khanna- 2080)

Under the guidance of Ms. Upagya Sharma and Dr. Bajirao

Rajwade

SEMINAR

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of

Degree BA.LLB

Punjabi University, Patiala (Punjab)

13th February 2024
 DECLARATION

It is certified that the project work presented in this report entitled “Lakshmi Bhandar

Scheme” embodies the results of original research work carried out by me. All the ideas and

references have been duly acknowledged.

DATE:13TH February 2024

NAME: Vani Khanna

PLACE: ARMY INSTITUTE OF LAW MOHALI

ROLL NO : 2080

2|Page
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This project consumed huge amount of work, research and dedication. I would like to express
my deepest appreciation to all those who provided me the possibility to complete this project
work.

A sincere gratitude to our professors Dr Bajirao Rajwade & Ms. Upagya Sharma, whose
superior knowledge and contribution in stimulating suggestions helped me to coordinate my
full effort in achieving the project.

Furthermore, I would also like to acknowledge with much appreciation the crucial role of
management of Army Institute of Law, who gave me the permission to use all necessary
material to complete this task of research.

3|Page
 INDEX

INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 6

BACKGROUND OF THE SCHEME................................................................................................ 6

ABOUT THE SCHEME.................................................................................................................7

OBJECTIVES OF THE SCHEME....................................................................................................7

BENEFITS OF SCHEME...............................................................................................................8

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA.............................................................................................................. 9

PRESENT SCENARIO OF THE SCHEME........................................................................................9

POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE OF THE SCHEME..............................................................................10

 WOMEN EMPOWERMENT AND THE SCHEME................................................................10

SUCCESS OF THE SCHEME.......................................................................................................11

ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE SCHEME............................................................................................11

CRITICISM OF THE SCHEME.....................................................................................................12

SCHEMES SIMILAR TO LAKSHMI BHANDAR SCHEME BY WEST BENGAL GOVERNMENT.........13

CONCLUSION...........................................................................................................................14

4|Page
 DETAILS OF THE SCHEME

NAME OF THE SCHEME West Bengal Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme

LAUNCHED BY Government of West Bengal

NODAL AGENCY Department of Women and Child Development and

Social Welfare

LAUNCHED ON 30th July 2021

LAUNCHED BY West Bengal Chief Minister Smt. Mamta Banerjee

BENEFICIARY Female heads of the households

OBJECTIVE To provide Basic Income Support

YEAR 2024

STATE West Bengal

NUMBER OF BENEFICIARIES 1.9 Crore

AGE LIMIT 25 years to 60 years

ASSISTANCE FOR GENERAL Rs.1000 per month and Rs.12000 per year
CATEGORY

ASSISTANCE FOR ST AND SC Rs.1200 per month and Rs.144000 per year
CATEGORY

5|Page
INTRODUCTION

Gender equality and child welfare are cornerstones of the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs). SDG 5 seeks to achieve gender equality and empowerment of women and
additionally Gender Equality is a key component among other sixteen goals. In pursuit of
these goals and its commitment to the people of the state, the Government of West Bengal
has implemented a range of initiatives, prioritizing the well-being and empowerment of
women and children across sectors such as education, healthcare, economic empowerment,
and social inclusion.

Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme is the flagship scheme for the household women. The terms "West
Bengal Lakshmir Bhandar Yojana" and "West Bengal Laxmir Bhandar Scheme" are other
names for this programme. Many households are unable to pay for their daily expenses
because they do not receive basic income support. For all those people the government of
West Bengal has launched this Scheme. Through this scheme, the government is going to
provide basic income support to the female heads of the family. It was launched in 2021.

The main objective behind starting Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme is to provide financial
assistance to the household women to meet the daily needs expenses. This will help the
household women to bear the expenses incurred on their daily needs. By empowering women
financially, the government aims to reduce poverty, promote gender equality, and enhance
women’s participation in various sectors of society.
Thus, This Scheme is a ground breaking social welfare initiative introduced by the
Government of West Bengal. Department of Women & Child Development and Social
Welfare is the nodal department of this scheme.

BACKGROUND OF THE SCHEME

"Lakshmi," which derives from the name of the Hindu goddess of prosperity and
auspiciousness, came to represent stability and sustenance in Bengali rural culture.

"Bhandar" is a symbol for the Goddess's Bhandar, which is a representation of security, flow,
and continuity that protects households from swings in agricultural income. The family's
female members, typically the oldest married woman or someone she delegated authority to,
were in charge of the Lakshmir Bhandar's upkeep.

6|Page
ABOUT THE SCHEME

“West Bengal rolls out ‘Lakshmi Bhandar’, largest cash transfer1”

-The Hindu

The West Bengal Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme was introduced by the state government to give
female heads of household foundational income assistance. The government would give
households in the general category Rs 1000 per month under this initiative, and families in
the SC/ST category Rs 1200 per month. West Bengal's over 1.6 crore families will profit
from this programme. This scheme was introduced with consideration for the average
monthly household consumption expenditure of Rs 5249 in the state. 10% to 20% of a
beneficiary's monthly expenses will be covered by the financial assistance offered by this
programme. The benefit amount under this plan will be transferred straight into the
participant's bank account.

OBJECTIVES OF THE SCHEME

West Bengal has a long history of being one of India's most progressive states. It has had
many difficulties due to its distinctive socio-economic imbalances. Lack of access to
financial resources for lower-income households is one of these issues. The state has put into
place "The Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme'' to address the demand for greater economic
involvement for these households.

1. The main objective of this scheme is to empower the females of the state by providing
financial support. According to the scheme, the female heads of the families of West
Bengal will be provided with Rs. 1000 for the general community family and Rs.
1200 for the ST/SC community. This Laxmi Bhandar scheme 2023 can empower the
females of the state in many ways.

2. The scheme's objective of poverty and income generation is one of the goals.
Additionally, strengthening the socially and economically underprivileged segments
of society, as well as the gender equality among those benefiting from it.

1
Shiv Sahay Singh, “West Bengal Rolls Out ‘Lakshmi Bhandar’, Largest Cash Transfer”, The Hindu, Aug.
24, 2021, available at: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/west-bengal-rolls-out-lakshmi-
bhandar-largest-cash-transfer/article36085333.ece/amp/ (last visited on Feb. 12, 2024).

7|Page
 3. The scheme will also boost the rural and urban economies of the state. There will be
flow of income in the market, as the direct cash transfer enhances economic activity
by changing hands and constantly circulating in the local economy.

BENEFITS OF SCHEME

The following financial assistance will be provided all eligible Women Beneficiary under
Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme of Government of West Bengal :-

 Financial Assistance of Rs. 1,000/- per month to Schedule Caste/ Tribe Women.
 Financial Assistance of Rs. 500/- per month to Women other than Schedule Caste/
Tribe.

Increased Financial Assistance

The West Bengal government declared during the budget 2024–25 presentation that women
in the general category would now receive financial support of Rupees 1000 per month, up
from the previous amount of Rupees 500 per month. Additionally, women who fall under the
SC/ST categories will now receive an assistant for 1200 rupees per month instead of 10002.

Case studies show that almost in all families, women use at least part of or the entire
allowance to meet household expenses, including groceries, vegetables, cooking oil or even
cooking gas. Mostly, women are housewives and their husbands’ income is insufficient or
irregular. A substantial portion also used it for education (and related) purposes of children,
like private tuition fees, money for transport to and from school, paying for co-curricular
activities etc. Case studies also show some women are saving money for further education of
their children. Some were also using it for their own or family member’s monthly medical
expenses. For instance, buying inhalers for respiratory problems, medication for chronic
illness like diabetes and hypertension.3

2
West Bengal Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme 2024, available at: https://pmmodiyojana.in/lakshmi-bhandar-
scheme/ (last visited on February10, 2024)

3
Pratichi (India) Trust, “Flow as Security: An Assessment of Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme” 20 (2023)

8|Page
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The following eligibilty criteria should be fulfilled:-

1) Women Beneficiary should be a resident of West Bengal.

2) The Age of Women Beneficiary should be between 25 years to 60 years.
3) Women Beneficiary should not be a recipient of regular salary or pension or any other
scheme.
4) Women Beneficiary should not be a permanent or retired employee of any of the
categories mentioned below :-

a) Central Government.

b) State Government.

c) Statutory Body.

d) Government Undertaking.

e) Panchayats.

f) Municipal Corporation.

g) Municipalities.

h) Local Body.

i) Teaching or Non Teaching staff of Government aided Educational Institutions.4

PRESENT SCENARIO OF THE SCHEME

 In 2023 and 2024, The financial assistance under the ‘Lakshmir Bhandar’ scheme for the
general category has been increased from ₹500 to ₹1000 per month and for SC/ST hiked
from ₹1000 to ₹1200. This increased allocation will cost an additional ₹1200 crore to the
State exchequer. The allocation for the flagship scheme with about 2.11 crore
5
beneficiaries in the State for the year 2024-25 stands at a whopping ₹14,400 crore.

4
Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme, available at: https://www.myscheme.gov.in/schemes/lbs-wb (Last Visited on
February 9, 2024)

5
Shiv Sahay Singh, “Sops Galore in West Bengal Budget 2024-25 Ahead of Lok Sabha Polls”, The Hindu,
Feb. 09, 2024, available at: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/west-bengal-state-budget-
2024/article67824908.ece (last visited on Feb. 10, 2024).

9|Page
POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE OF THE SCHEME

The government's Lakshmi Bhandar project for West Bengal is a significant policy initiative.
It is anticipated to become a cornerstone initiative in the West's advancement of inclusive
growth and social equality. It is one of the most ambitious social programmes of its sort to be
introduced in India. Bengal. It attempts to give economically disadvantaged groups of people
access to a range of social services and infrastructure support in order to empower them.

The program's specific goal is to support women's development, as they are frequently the
most economically disadvantaged and lack access to necessities like clean water, sanitary
conditions, and healthcare. The intended audience gains from the programme. For instance, it
gives women financial help.

The Lakshmi Bhandar project for West Bengal is therefore a step in the right direction, which
can serve as an important policy justification for the government. It is necessary to implement
the program effectively and efficiently to help women. Only through the successful
implementation of this program will women be able to liberate themselves and receive the
respect and political advocacy they deserve.

 WOMEN EMPOWERMENT AND THE SCHEME

In order to fulfil the criteria of Gender Equality and women Empowerment as enshrined
under Sustainable Development Goals(SDG’s, Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme has played a vital
role in doing the same. Women empowerment can be construed as a means to the end of
substantive political & economic development, as well as an end in itself. So, The Lakshmi
Bhandar Scheme by the West Bengal government that aims to empower women. The
programme is especially intended to support West Bengali women who are vulnerable and on
the margins of society economically. Encouraging economic stability and facilitating these
women's financial inclusion is the scheme's main objective. The ultimate objective is to assist
them in eventually becoming financially and self-sufficient.

All things considered, the Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme is a very promising initiative for West
Bengali women. The programme will undoubtedly go a long way towards empowering these
women and assisting them in eventually achieving financial independence by offering
financial support.

10 | P a g e
SUCCESS OF THE SCHEME

“Lakshmir Bhandar now has 2 crore beneficiaries”6

-Times of India

The West Bengal government launched with the goal of raising living conditions. It was
intended to be a timely and effective way to give these households a reliable stream of
income in order to lessen poverty.

The primary aim of the programme is to furnish prompt and efficient welfare services to
individuals residing in West Bengal below the poverty line. West Bengal has seen great
success with the Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme. Official statistics show that many families have
benefited from the programme.

Furthermore, it has been noted that government employees frequently travel to remote
regions to ensure that the eligibility requirements and other related processes are strictly
adhered to. The programme has also received praise for its contribution to the narrowing of
income gaps within West Bengal's populace. Apart from delivering fundamental social
services to the state's populace, the programme has also assisted in mitigating economic
inequality and enhancing the standard of living for the populace. Additionally, it has been
crucial in advancing financial inclusion and bolstering the state's economy.

Though almost everybody admits that the allowance is small, they also say that the regular
monthly flow has reduced their sense of insecurity and allows them to plan ahead. This
enhanced sense of financial security acts as a stepping-stone toward financial freedom. In
some cases, it has added to their sense of self-worth and confidence. Since money is debited
to their account directly it gives women some added voice regarding how to spend it.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE SCHEME

The Lakshmir Bhandar programme of the West Bengali government won the SKOCH award
for women and child development. The West Bengal government’s Lakshmi Bhandar or
laxmi bhandar programme earned the SKOCH award for women and child development. The

6
“Lakshmir Bhandar Now Has 2 Crore Beneficiaries”, Times of India, Oct. 04, 2023, available at:
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/lakshmir-bhandar-now-has-2-crore-beneficiaries/
articleshow/104145478.cms (last visited on Feb. 12, 2024).

11 | P a g e
 award gives credit to the state government as well as to the two crore women who have
gained increased empowerment as a result of the initiative.

CRITICISM OF THE SCHEME

Since its launch in 2021, the Lakshmi Bhandar Plan for West Bengal has been met with a
great deal of criticism.

1) Although it was promoted as a means of assisting women in the state to become

economically empowered, it soon became clear that it had failed, since other issues have
subsequently surfaced.

2) The program's primary issue is that there is insufficient oversight over the distribution and
management of monies. There have been allegations of unequal financial distribution
amongst districts for the programme.

3) Furthermore, the government hasn't done anything to guarantee the program's successful
execution since it was launched. The absence of interaction with the local population
hindered the development of the trust that is required for a project of this kind to succeed.

4) Furthermore, there is less accountability to possible beneficiaries in fund management due to

a weak accountability framework.

5) Ultimately, it is evident that further development and enhancement are required for West
Bengal's Lakshmi Bhandar programme to become a long-term means of reducing poverty.
Strict controls and openness are required to accomplish this in order to guarantee that money
are managed and distributed properly.

6) In the end, this will guarantee that the programme can effectively assist the women of West
Bengal and turn into an instrument for economic empowerment and poverty eradication.

7) The Lakshmi Bhandar Project in West Bengal has shown to be a successful strategy for
gaining political advantage. The government party will gain from the scheme in addition to
the state's impoverished women. It also conveys the idea that the West Bengal administration
is committed to making sure that all of its citizens flourish and thrive.7

7
West Bengal Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme 2024, available at: https://pmmodiyojana.in/lakshmi-bhandar-
scheme/ (last visited on February10, 2024)

12 | P a g e
SCHEMES SIMILAR TO LAKSHMI BHANDAR SCHEME BY WEST BENGAL
GOVERNMENT.

1. Narayan Bhandar Scheme

Under this scheme financial assistance of ₹2,000 per month is given to individuals
who apply. It is specifically designed for poor and middle class individuals facing
financial challenges in their lives

2. Rupashree Prakalpa

Provides a one-time financial grant of ₹25,000 to families whose annual income is

less than ₹1.50 lakhs at the time of their daughter's marriage. The grant provided is
aimed at mitigating the difficulties that poor families face in bearing the expenditure
of their daughters’ marriages, for which they often have to borrow money at very high
interest rates.

3. Kanyashree Prakalpa

Provides conditional cash transfers to improve the status and wellbeing of girls from
socio-economically disadvantaged families. Kanyashree Prakalpa, launched by the
Government of West Bengal on 1st October 2013, is a Conditional Cash Transfer
(CCT) Scheme that incentivizes the schooling of all teenage girls between the ages of
thirteen and eighteen, simultaneously dis-incentivizing child marriage. The Scheme is
goes much beyond financial enablement but includes adolescent-friendly approaches
like events, competitions and Kanyashree clubs, and the endorsement of strong
women figures as role models to promote social and psychological empowerment.

4. Aikyashree
A program offering financial aid to students who are members of one of West
Bengal's many underrepresented groups. The plan is an attempt to satisfy the rising
educational aspirations of the state's racially and ethnically marginalized populations.
Through the provision of financial assistance, we want to open up further doors for
the socioeconomic and educational advancement of these individuals.8

8
Aikyashree Scheme of West Bengal, available at:
https://vikaspedia.in/social-welfare/minority-welfare-1/aikyashree-scheme-of-west-bengal, (last visited on:
February 9,2023)

13 | P a g e
CONCLUSION

The Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme is part of the West Bengal government's efforts to uplift
women and ensure their financial inclusion. It aims to provide a safety net and promote
financial independence among women-headed households in the state.

The Laxmi Bhandar programme has serious shortcomings that hindered its efficacy despite
its noble objectives. As a result, the government needs to act to increase this system's
efficiency. The West Bengal government's Lakshmi Bhandar Programme is a commendable
attempt to advance financial inclusion. However, this system can be more harmful than
beneficial because it lacks monitoring and regulation. To guarantee the project's long-term
success, it is crucial that the West Bengal government take action to provide enough
management and monitoring.

To sum up, the Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme is an excellent initiative that aims to empower
women and reduce poverty in West Bengal. In addition to meeting short-term financial
requirements, the programme empowers women to take charge of their financial resources
and promotes long-term socioeconomic development by giving direct financial support to
female heads of home. Through direct bank transfers, the scheme's emphasis on
accountability, transparency, and inclusivity guarantees that rewards are delivered to the
intended beneficiaries in an efficient manner. Ongoing monitoring and assessment, however,
are crucial to maximising the scheme's impact in order to resolve any implementation issues
and guarantee its continuous efficacy. All things considered, the Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme is
a big step towards the state's goals of inclusive growth and gender equality.

14 | P a g e
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

 Websites

1. Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme www.myscheme.gov.in

2. West Bengal Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme | National Government Services Portal
www.india.gov.in
3. scheme | Bengal Budget 2024: Financial assistance increased under 'Lakshmir
Bhandar Scheme,' announces new schemes - Telegraph India
www.telegraphindia.com
4. West Bengal Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme 2024 www.pmmodiyojana.in
5. West Bengal Govt Issues Guidelines For Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme - News18
www.news18.com

 Newspaper articles

1. Times of India, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/lakshmir-bhandar-

now-has-2-crore-beneficiaries/articleshow/104145478.cms
2. The Hindu, https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/west-bengal-state-
budget-2024/article67824908.ece

 Research Paper

1. Parimal Das, “Impact of Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme in Improving Social Security for
Empowering Women in West Bengal” 10 Journal of Emerging Technologies and
Innovative Research (2023).

2. Dr. Partima Pareek, “A Study on Existing Social Protection Programs to Alleviate

Poverty in West Bengal” 9 Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative
Research (2022).

3. Pratichi (India) Trust, “Flow as Security: An Assessment of Lakshmir Bhandar

Scheme” 20 (2023)

15 | P a g e