Nearly 1.5 crore women in West Bengal are receiving the fourth instalment of the Annapurna Yojana on September 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while addressing an ‘Annapurna Diwas’ programme virtually on his 76th birthday. Eligible beneficiaries are receiving ₹3,000 directly in their bank accounts, with the state government having announced September 17 as the date for the latest transfer.
Speaking during the programme, Modi said the scheme was aimed at strengthening women's financial security and confidence by reducing concerns over household expenses. He said the monthly assistance could provide women with greater financial support and independence.
“Today, the fourth instalment of the Annapurna Yojana is reaching the accounts of one-and-a-half crore sisters,” Modi said, according to reports.
Modi Takes Aim at ‘Cut Money’ Culture
The Prime Minister also used the occasion to target the previous state government over alleged irregularities in the delivery of welfare benefits. Modi claimed that beneficiaries were now receiving the Annapurna funds directly in their bank accounts without intermediaries.
“Now there is no cut money in Bengal,” Modi said, describing “less talk, more work” as the BJP government's guiding principle. The remarks were part of his broader political message on the change of government in West Bengal.
Annapurna Scheme Gives ₹3,000 a Month
The Annapurna Yojana provides ₹3,000 per month to eligible women aged 25 to 60, according to announcements made by the state government. In August, around 1.48 crore women were reported to have received the benefit, while the September transfer was scheduled for September 17.
The September payment coincides with Modi's birthday and the state's observance of ‘Annapurna Diwas’. Reports said the scheme's beneficiary base could rise further as additional eligible women are brought into the programme.
Modi Credits Bengal Women for Political Change
During his address, Modi also referred to the political change in West Bengal following the May 4 election results and credited women voters with playing an important role. He said strengthening women's economic position was among the priorities of the new government.
The Prime Minister said the Annapurna scheme was conceived with the objective of giving women greater confidence to make decisions and move forward.
The state government has also announced additional support for women with disabilities who fall within the eligible age group. According to the announcement, such beneficiaries can receive the ₹3,000 Annapurna assistance along with a ₹1,500 disability allowance.
