Kolkata, May 12: The newly formed government in West Bengal is preparing to roll out a major welfare package from June 1, introducing a series of public benefit schemes aimed at healthcare access, women’s mobility and direct financial assistance.

Among the biggest announcements is the implementation of the Centre’s flagship healthcare programme, Ayushman Bharat, in West Bengal after years of political disagreement over the scheme. The move is expected to bring health insurance coverage benefits to lakhs of families across the state.

In another significant announcement, women in West Bengal will be allowed to travel free of cost in government-operated buses from June 1. The scheme is aimed at reducing daily transportation expenses for working women, students and senior citizens while encouraging safer and more accessible public transport usage.

Officials said detailed operational guidelines and eligibility procedures are being finalised before the formal launch. The initiative is expected to benefit millions of women commuters across urban and rural areas.

“Annapurna Bhandar” Welfare Scheme To Begin

The state government is also preparing to launch the BJP’s flagship poll promise, “Annapurna Bhandar,” under which direct cash support will reportedly be provided to eligible women beneficiaries.

The scheme was one of the major promises highlighted during the Assembly election campaign and is expected to function as a financial assistance programme targeting economically weaker households. Authorities are currently working on beneficiary identification, documentation and transfer mechanisms ahead of the launch.

Government sources clarified that none of the existing welfare programmes in the state would be discontinued despite the rollout of the new initiatives. Officials stated that popular schemes related to social security, education assistance and women’s welfare would continue alongside the newly announced benefits.

The administration described the upcoming measures as part of a broader effort to strengthen healthcare access, social protection and financial support systems for ordinary citizens.

The June 1 rollout is being seen as the first large-scale welfare initiative of the new government after assuming office. Political observers believe the move is intended to deliver on key election promises quickly while expanding the government’s outreach among women, lower-income families and rural voters.

With healthcare, transport and direct benefit schemes being introduced simultaneously, the state government is expected to begin an extensive awareness campaign in the coming weeks to inform citizens about eligibility criteria and registration procedures.