The West Bengal government has officially announced a structural rebranding of its flagship housing program during a cabinet meeting held at the state secretariat, Nabanna. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated on Thursday that the state cabinet approved changing the name of the 'Banglar Bari' housing initiative to 'Paschim Banga Awas'. Alongside this policy decision, the administration successfully transferred the final installment of financial assistance to more than one million registered beneficiaries across the state.
Over Rs 6,000 Crore Released to 10.2 Lakh Beneficiaries
While releasing the funds from Nabanna, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari provided detailed statistics regarding the welfare distribution. A total of 10,20,379 beneficiaries received their second and final installment of Rs 60,000 each directly into their bank accounts. In cumulative terms, the government has disbursed over Rs 6,000 crore under this welfare scheme. The primary objective of this state initiative is to provide financial relief and structural support to needy families seeking to construct permanent residential houses.
First Installment for New Applicants Slated After October Durga Puja
Elaborating on the future roadmap of the housing project, the Chief Minister outlined the upcoming timeline for fresh enrollments. He announced that several hundred thousand new beneficiaries will receive their first installment in October, following the conclusion of the Durga Puja festival. Under the established framework of the scheme, eligible households receive a total financial grant of Rs 1.20 lakh, split equally into two installments of Rs 60,000 each. Adhikari highlighted that nearly 2.0 million new applicants have already been incorporated into the program, with further additions expected as verification continues.
Historical Significance of 'Paschim' and Legacy of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee
Explaining the rationale behind adopting 'Paschim Banga Awas', Suvendu Adhikari emphasized the profound historical heritage embedded in the state's name. He recalled that during the 1947 partition of India, a geopolitical plot was orchestrated to merge the territory into East Pakistan. However, this attempt was successfully thwarted under the decisive leadership of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. Furthermore, the cabinet resolved to retain the word 'Paschim' in the state's official title, ensuring that future generations remain informed about the historical events and sacrifices that shaped the region's statehood.
