The West Bengal government launched new registration camps on Sunday. These camps facilitate jobless youth enrollment for financial aid under the recently announced ‘Banglar Yuba Sathi’ scheme. Long queues formed at multiple registration sites across the state.
‘Banglar Yuba Sathi’ Scheme Details
The ‘Banglar Yuba Sathi’ initiative aims to provide financial support to unemployed individuals. Eligible participants must be between 21 and 40 years old . They will receive a monthly allowance of Rs 1,500 . This financial aid can be received for a maximum period of five years . The scheme officially begins on April 1 .
Camp Operations and Scope
Registration camps are operational in all 294 assembly constituencies . These centers are open daily from 10 am to 5 pm . The registration period extends until February 26 . In addition to the ‘Banglar Yuba Sathi’ scheme, the camps accept applications for other welfare programs. These include the ‘Lakshmir Bhandar’ scheme for women. Applications for farmer support initiatives, ‘Krishak Bandhu’ and farm laborer allowances, are also being processed.
Opposition Concerns Raised
The Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, questioned the use of physical camps. He suggested an online application system would be more efficient. Adhikari also expressed skepticism about the longevity of the ‘Banglar Yuba Sathi’ scheme. He referenced a similar program launched in 2013. This earlier initiative, he claimed, failed to deliver on its promises of allowances and jobs for 17 lakh applicants. Adhikari stated that no funds were allocated for that previous scheme since the 2017-18 financial year.
Adhikari alleged the government deliberately closed job creation channels. He claimed previous application lists have been destroyed. He questioned why online applications are not permitted for the current scheme. Adhikari predicted the ‘Banglar Yuba Sathi’ would face a similar fate due to a lack of state resources.
Government Response to Criticism
The ruling Trinamool Congress dismissed Adhikari’s criticisms. The party accused the central government of failing to create sufficient employment. State cabinet minister Chandrima Bhattacharya stated the government remains committed to supporting job seekers. She asserted that the state government intends to maintain all its initiatives. This commitment is upheld despite alleged financial blockades from the Center.