Big update of Lakshmi Bhandar Yojana, monthly assistance increased from 1,500 to 1,700. Can you really get ₹45 lakh?

News India Live, Digital Desk: The monthly amount in ‘Lakshmi Bhandar’, the most popular welfare scheme of the West Bengal government, has been increased by ₹ 500 from February 2026. After this announcement made by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the Budget 2026-27, now the amount given to women has been increased according to their category. Laxmi Bhandar Yojana: New amount (2026 Update) CategoryOld amount (per month)New amount (from Feb 2026)Annual benefitGeneral / OBC₹1,000₹1,500₹18,000SC / ST₹1,200₹1,700₹20,400₹45 What is the ‘math’ of lakhs? (The Reality Check)The government does not directly give ₹45 lakh under the scheme. This claim is based on savings and investment (compounding). According to experts, if a woman invests ₹ 1,500 received from Laxmi Bhandar in long-term investments like PPF (Public Provident Fund) or SIP (Mutual Funds) instead of spending it herself, then after 25-30 years this amount can reach ₹ 40 to ₹ 45 lakh. For example: If you invest ₹ 1,500 per month in a place where you get 12% return annually. If you invest continuously for 30 years, your total accumulated capital will be approximately. ₹ 5.4 lakh. But with the power of ‘compounding’ your maturity amount can exceed ₹ 45 lakh. Note: This is an investment opportunity, not a guaranteed lump sum amount from the government. Eligibility and Application (Eligibility 2026) Female Resident: Applicant must be a female permanent resident of West Bengal. Age Limit: Age should be between 25 to 60 years. (Old age pension starts after 60). Not in government job: Applicant or any family member should not be in government job. Documents required: Swasthya Sathi card, Aadhaar card (linked to bank), Single bank account and SC/ST certificate (if applicable). How to apply? Duare Sarkar Camp: This is the easiest way. Visit your nearest camp and get the free form. Online Status: You can check the status of your application by visiting the official portal socialsecurity.wb.gov.in.