The Annapurna Bhandar scheme, which provides ₹3,000 monthly assistance to eligible women in West Bengal, has officially launched. This new initiative, replacing the Lakshmir Bhandar program, aims to financially empower women aged 25 to 60 who are not government employees or income-tax payers. Payments will be made directly to beneficiaries' Aadhaar-linked bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. To check payment status, beneficiaries can visit the state's Social Security Portal and enter their application ID, Aadhaar number, or registered mobile number. The government has emphasized the importance of ensuring correct Aadhaar-bank account linkage to avoid payment delays. Existing beneficiaries of the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme will be transitioned to the new program after verification. New applicants can enroll online or offline during a 90-day registration period, submitting necessary documents such as Aadhaar, proof of residence, and bank details.