Kolkata: Payments under the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme have begun in phases from the second week of April, bringing relief to crores of women across West Bengal after a brief delay at the start of the 2026–27 financial year.

Sources at Nabanna confirmed that funds are now being credited to beneficiaries’ bank accounts, with a majority expected to receive the amount by April 15.

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The delay in April disbursement was attributed to routine financial-year procedures, including approval of fresh budget allocations, administrative clearances, and updates to the beneficiary database.

Officials said such delays are typical at the beginning of a new fiscal cycle.

Disbursement timeline and revised payouts

According to administrative sources, the fund transfer process commenced after April 10, and as of April 13, many beneficiaries have already started receiving payments.

The state government expects the remaining transfers to be completed within the next few days.

The monthly allowance under the scheme was revised earlier this year. Since February 2026, women in the General and OBC categories have been receiving ₹1,500 per month, while those belonging to SC/ST categories are entitled to ₹1,700 per month.

The hike was announced by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as part of the state’s welfare push.

Possibility of advance double installment

Officials indicated that beneficiaries may receive two installments in April. With the 2026 Assembly elections approaching, the Model Code of Conduct is likely to come into force in May, potentially affecting routine disbursements.

To avoid administrative disruptions, the state government is considering releasing the May installment in advance by the end of April.

If implemented, this would result in beneficiaries receiving a double payout within the same month.

Authorities have advised beneficiaries who have not yet received payments to ensure that their bank accounts are Aadhaar-linked for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Payment status can be checked on the official portal using Aadhaar or mobile number, and accounts showing “Validation Success” are expected to be credited shortly.

The Lakshmir Bhandar scheme currently covers around 2.42 crore women in the state. Nabanna has reiterated that there are no plans to discontinue the programme.