Ahead of the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced a series of budget measures aimed at women, youth, senior citizens, farmers, and the poor, signaling a strong political strategy against BJP.
Here are the 10 key initiatives from Mamata’s budget:
- Lakshmi Bhandar Boost: Monthly allowance increased by ₹500, raising women’s benefits from ₹1,500 to ₹1,700.
- Banglar Yuba-Sathi: Monthly financial aid of ₹1,500 for unemployed youth aged 21–40 until they find employment, for up to five years.
- Temple Renovation & Foundation Stones: New and renovated temples to counter BJP’s Hindutva card.
- Durga Puja Committee Grants: Increased direct funds to thousands of local committees, strengthening grassroots support.
- Increased Honorarium for Civic Volunteers & ASHA Workers: Recognizes the workforce that mobilizes voters and promotes government schemes.
- Krishi Bandhu Expansion: Farmers to receive more aid and simplified crop insurance through the state’s scheme.
- DA Increase for Government Employees: Partial hike in dearness allowance ahead of elections to reduce discontent.
- Swasth Sathi Card Expansion: Health coverage for serious illnesses extended to migrant laborers and more families.
- Scholarships for Minorities & Backward Classes: Funding increased for Oikyashree and Medhashree scholarships, and special development boards for tribal communities.
- State Housing Scheme: Bengal government to build houses for the poor if central funds are withheld, ensuring welfare independent of Delhi.
Mamata’s budget reveals a calculated political approach, balancing social welfare, religious outreach, and financial support to key voter segments. Analysts believe these moves aim to consolidate traditional vote banks and counter BJP’s criticism on corruption, governance, and central issues.
