Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday announced a series of welfare initiatives and regulatory measures during an administrative review meeting held in Kalyani, Nadia district.
The announcements included restrictions on liquor shops near educational and religious institutions, subsidized meal schemes and financial assistance for women.
Addressing reporters after the meeting, the chief minister said the state government was preparing to roll out several initiatives aimed at improving public welfare and strengthening grassroots administration.
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No Liquor Shops Near Schools And Temples
One of the key decisions announced by the chief minister was a restriction on liquor outlets operating close to schools, colleges and temples. Adhikari stated that liquor shops would not be allowed within a one-kilometre radius of educational institutions and religious places.
The move, according to officials, is intended to regulate the location of liquor outlets and address concerns raised by local communities.
₹3,000 Monthly Aid Under Annapurna Yojana
The chief minister also announced that application forms for the “Annapurna Yojana” would be issued from May 27. Under the scheme, eligible women would receive financial assistance of ₹3,000 per month.
Adhikari said the initiative is expected to benefit a large number of women across the state. He added that forms for the scheme would be available through the state secretariat and other designated centres.
₹5 Fish-Rice Meals Through Statewide Canteens
In another major welfare announcement, the Bengal government said it would establish nearly 400 subsidized canteens across the state. These centers will provide fish-rice meals at a cost of ₹5. Officials said the scheme aims to offer affordable food options to economically weaker sections and daily wage earners.
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Separate AYUSH Department Planned
The chief minister further stated that the state government plans to create a separate AYUSH department, independent of the health department. The proposal is aimed at strengthening alternative medicine systems and improving administrative focus.
Development Review Across Districts
The Kalyani meeting reviewed ongoing development projects in Nadia, North 24 Parganas and Hooghly districts. Several MPs and MLAs attended the session, where officials discussed welfare schemes, infrastructure projects and administrative coordination at the district level.
