Mamata Banerjee Announces First Instalment of Banglar Bari Housing Scheme From State Funds

In a move aimed at providing housing for low-income families in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced the release of the first instalment of the Banglar Bari Housing Scheme, funded entirely by the state government. Despite facing challenges due to the central government not releasing funds, the Chief Minister emphasized that the state government remains committed to fulfilling its promise to 12 lakh families under the scheme.

During a press interaction, she pointed out that over 28 lakh genuine beneficiaries were identified through a state-conducted survey. For these beneficiaries, a total of Rs 1.2 lakh is expected to be transferred by next December. As part of the first phase, Rs 60,000 was directly deposited into the bank accounts of 12 lakh beneficiaries.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the delay in central funding, which has been owed to the state for over three years. Despite multiple inspections and verification reports submitted by 74 central teams, the central government has failed to release ₹1.71 lakh crore owed under various schemes. Mamata Banerjee criticized the central government for withholding these funds, even after receiving verification reports, and argued that the state, despite contributing revenue to the central exchequer, has been denied its rightful share of resources.

In response to the lack of central funding, the West Bengal government decided to proceed with the Banglar Bari Housing Scheme using its own funds. The initiative is designed to benefit families in need of housing, with the first instalment of ₹60,000 being directly deposited into the beneficiaries' accounts. This phase will provide assistance to 12 lakh eligible families, and by 2026, the remaining 16 lakh families are expected to receive ₹1.2 lakh each.

The state government’s survey identified 28 lakh eligible families, and the first phase of the Banglar Bari scheme aims to provide immediate relief to those struggling with inadequate living conditions. Mamata Banerjee emphasized that the central government’s failure to release the promised funds has left the state in financial limbo, and reiterated that the state is demanding its rightful share, not charity.

The Banglar Bari scheme also reflects the growing tension between the state and central governments over the distribution of funds. The Chief Minister stressed that the state will bear the total expense of ₹14,773 crore for the housing initiative. If the central government does not release the promised funds, the state will continue its efforts and ensure that the remaining 16 lakh families receive the financial assistance they need. The government plans to release funds to eight lakh families by May-June, and the remaining eight lakh families will receive their payments by December.

Despite the central government's delay, the Chief Minister's announcement is an important step in solving the housing crisis in West Bengal. By utilizing state funds, the  government aims to ensure that the most vulnerable families are not left behind, demonstrating its commitment to welfare and development.

Image source-facebook.com