The West Bengal government announced a 4 per cent increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for state employees, raising their DA from 10 per cent to 14 per cent, effective May 2024. This financial boost aligns with the budget announcement in the state assembly.
Additional measures were unveiled to support various segments. The Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme, providing financial assistance, will see general category households receive Rs 1,000 while SC/ST households will receive Rs 1,200. SC/ST women will get Rs 1,200 under the scheme, while others will receive Rs 1,000, effective April 2024.
Fishermen in specific districts will benefit from the Samudra Sathi scheme, offering Rs 5,000 for two months (April-June). Artisans and weavers also received attention, with the New Artisans & Weavers scheme providing a one-time grant of Rs 2 lakh to the kin of registered individuals aged 18-60 in case of their death. Another scheme offers one-time settlement, working capital assistance, or subsidised yarn to handloom and khadi weavers.