The Government of West Bengal has introduced the ‘Shramshree Scheme’, a welfare initiative aimed at rehabilitating Bengali migrant workers returning from other states. Launched by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the scheme seeks to provide financial relief, skill training, and self-employment opportunities to those who have faced regional or linguistic discrimination while working outside the state.
Objectives of the Shramshree Scheme
The scheme has been designed with the following goals:
- To support Bengali workers returning from other states due to discrimination or job insecurity.
- To provide financial assistance during the transition period.
- To create pathways for local employment through rural job schemes and state initiatives.
- To promote self-employment and entrepreneurship via loans and training.
Key Benefits Under the Scheme
- Monthly Financial Assistance
- Eligible workers will receive ₹5,000 per month for up to one year or until they secure stable employment.
- Payments will be made directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts by the Labour Department.
- Job Cards & Rural Employment
- Returnee workers will be issued Job Cards, enabling access to work under state-run rural employment schemes.
- Skill Development Training
- Beneficiaries will undergo skill training programs designed to enhance employability in both the public and private sectors.
- Self-Employment Support
- Workers will be eligible for government-backed loans to start small businesses.
- Entrepreneurship development programs will provide both training and financial assistance.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Shramshree Scheme, applicants must:
- Be a Bengali migrant worker who was previously employed in another Indian state.
- Have returned to West Bengal to seek rehabilitation under the scheme.
- Hold a valid bank account to receive direct financial transfers.