The West Bengal government has officially unveiled the Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme 2026, a major welfare initiative designed to provide financial relief to the state’s unemployed youth. Announced by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during the state’s interim budget, this scheme aims to support educated individuals as they transition into the workforce. With an estimated 27.8 lakh potential beneficiaries and a massive budget allocation of ₹5,000 crore, this programme represents a significant investment in the future of Bengal’s youth.
Whether you are a job seeker looking for a financial cushion or a parent seeking information for your child, this guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme, including its benefits, eligibility requirements, and the step-by-step application process.
What is the Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme?
The Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme is a transitional support system that offers a monthly allowance of ₹1,500 to eligible unemployed candidates. The primary objective is to ensure that young, educated people in West Bengal do not face extreme financial distress while searching for stable employment.
It is important to note that the government does not intend for this to be a permanent source of income. Instead, it serves as a financial “cushion” to help cover minor expenses, such as application fees or travel costs, during the critical period of job huntin
Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme 2026 Apply Online
Revised Timeline: Why the Scheme Was Fast-Tracked
Originally, the Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme was scheduled for an August 15 rollout. However, recognizing the urgency of addressing youth unemployment, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee fast-tracked the programme.
- Application Window: February 15 to February 26, 2026.
- Official Launch/First Disbursement: April 1, 2026.
This accelerated timeline reflects the state government’s commitment to supporting job seekers ahead of the upcoming assembly polls.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To ensure the funds reach those who need them most, the state has established strict eligibility guidelines. To qualify for the ₹1,500 monthly stipend, an applicant must meet the following conditions:
- Age Limit: Applicants must be between 21 and 40 years of age.
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed at least the Class 10 (Secondary) examination.
- Residency: You must be a permanent resident of West Bengal.
- Employment Status: You must be unemployed at the time of your application.
- Exclusions and Compatibility:
◦ The scheme excludes individuals who are already receiving financial assistance from other state welfare programmes.
◦ However, the allowance is compatible with several educational scholarships, including Aikyasree, Medhasree, Sikhasree, and the Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Scholarship.
Required Documents Checklist
Before heading to a camp or applying online, ensure you have the following documents ready to avoid delays in processing:
- Class 10 Pass Certificate: To verify your educational qualification.
- Valid Government ID: Aadhaar Card or Voter ID card.
- Proof of Residence: Documents proving you are a permanent resident of West Bengal.
- Bank Account Details: Necessary for the direct benefit transfer (DBT) of the allowance.
- Passport-Sized Photograph: A recent photo for the application form.
Note: If you are applying in person at a local camp, you must bring original documents for verification along with a set of photocopies for submission.
How to Apply: A Dual Approach
The West Bengal government has adopted two methods to make the application process accessible to everyone, including those without reliable internet access.
- Physical Camps (Offline)
From February 15 to February 26, 2026, the government has set up 294 camps across the state—one in every assembly constituency.
- Operational Hours: Daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Kolkata Presence: Approximately 18 camps have been established specifically within Kolkata to handle the urban demand.
- Process: Applicants can visit these camps to collect, fill out, and submit their forms in person.
- Online Portal
For those who prefer a digital route, applications can be managed through the official website of the Department of Youth Services and Sports:
- Website: wbsportsandyouth.gov.in
- Process: Users can download the application forms and submit them digitally through the portal.
Massive Public Response: Day 1 Highlights
The launch of the registration process saw an “overwhelming” response from the public. On the very first day (Sunday, February 15), over 2 lakh youth flocked to the camps to submit their applications.
At many locations, queues began forming as early as 8:30 AM, despite the camps not opening until 11:00 AM. For example, in the Behala East constituency, over 700 registrations were recorded on the first day alone.
Industry Minister Shashi Panja, who supervised a camp in Shyampukur, noted that the high turnout proves the significance of the announcement for the state’s youth. Many applicants, such as Souvik Porel—a commerce graduate working as a private tutor after losing his job during the pandemic—stated that the allowance provides a vital “breather” while they prepare for government job exams.
Political and Economic Impact
The Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme 2026 has become a focal point of political discussion in the state. While the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) highlights it as a crucial support system for job seekers, the opposition has raised questions.
- Budgetary Commitment: The state has allocated ₹5,000 crore for the 2026-27 fiscal year to fund this initiative.
- Criticism: Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, questioned the need for physical camps over a purely online system and raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of the funding.
- Government Stance: State Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya and other officials have defended the scheme, asserting that the state remains committed to supporting those the central government has failed to employ.
Summary Table: Banglar Yuva Sathi 2026
| Feature | Details |
| Monthly Allowance | ₹1,500 |
| Eligibility Age | 21 to 40 years |
| Minimum Education | Class 10 (Secondary) Pass |
| Application Dates | February 15 – February 26, 2026 |
| Scheme Launch Date | April 1, 2026 |
| Application Method | Online (wbsportsandyouth.gov.in) & Local Camps |
| Total Budget | ₹5,000 Crore |
Conclusion
The Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme 2026 is a significant step by the West Bengal government to mitigate the financial challenges faced by unemployed youth. By providing a ₹1,500 monthly stipend, the state offers a temporary safety net for millions of educated individuals as they seek permanent employment.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, ensure you submit your application before the February 26 deadline either through your local assembly constituency camp or via the official online portal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I apply if I am currently a student? The scheme is specifically for those who are unemployed. However, it is compatible with several student scholarships like the Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Scholarship, suggesting that certain students who meet the age and “without work” criteria may still be eligible.
- Where is the official website for application? You can find the forms and digital submission options at wbsportsandyouth.gov.in.
- What if I missed the first day of registration? Don’t worry. The camps and the online portal will remain active daily until February 26, 2026.
- When will I receive the first payment? The first disbursements are scheduled to begin on April 1, 2026, which marks the official start of the allowance payments.
- Are there any fees to apply for this scheme? Based on the sources, there is no mention of an application fee; the scheme is a welfare initiative provided by the state governmen
