Kolkatal: Ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced a new welfare initiative, the Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme, aimed at supporting unemployed youth in the state. The scheme will provide ₹1,500 per month to eligible young individuals, helping them meet their daily expenses while searching for jobs or undergoing skill development. The program is expected to be implemented from April 1, 2026, with direct transfers to beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
Objective of the Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme
The scheme is designed to address the financial challenges faced by youth who are job-seeking or pursuing skill development. Many young people, after completing their education, struggle with economic pressure and take up small jobs to meet daily needs. The Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme aims to relieve this burden and help youth become financially independent while focusing on career growth.
Application Process and Important Dates
Applications for the scheme will begin on February 15, 2026, and the last date for submission is February 26, 2026. During this period, special registration camps will be set up across all 294 assembly constituencies in West Bengal.
- Applicants can visit these camps to collect and submit forms.
- Forms will also be available for download from the official state government website.
- Completed forms must be submitted at the camps along with the required documents.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme, candidates must meet the following conditions:
- Age between 21 and 40 years
- Minimum education: 10th pass
- Currently unemployed
- Resident of West Bengal
- Not receiving benefits from any other state government welfare schemes (scholarship beneficiaries are eligible)
This ensures the program reaches truly unemployed youth and students preparing for jobs or skill development programs.
Monthly Payment and Benefits
The ₹1,500 monthly assistance under the scheme will begin on April 1, 2026, earlier than the initially planned date of August 15.
The scheme aims to:
- Provide financial support for daily expenses
- Encourage youth to focus on job preparation and skill enhancement
- Support students and unemployed youth in their career and education goals
Local experts believe that this initiative could significantly reduce financial stress for young people and help them concentrate on career development and skill-building activities.
