West Bengal’s ‘Yuva Sathi’ Scheme Offers ₹1,500 Monthly Aid to Unemployed Youth — Eligibility, Dates, and How to Apply

Amid rising concerns over unemployment, the government of West Bengal has launched a new financial assistance initiative aimed at supporting job-seeking youth. The program, titled Banglar Yuva Sathi Scheme, is designed to provide monthly monetary support to eligible unemployed individuals, helping them manage basic expenses while they search for stable employment.

Officials say the scheme reflects a broader push by both central and state governments across India to address youth unemployment through targeted welfare measures. Under this initiative, selected beneficiaries will receive ₹1,500 per month, credited directly to their bank accounts. The state plans to roll out payments starting April 1, 2026, ensuring that eligible applicants begin receiving financial assistance soon after approval.

Objective Behind the Scheme

Authorities noted that many young people struggle financially after completing their education because they do not immediately find jobs. In some cases, limited resources force them to accept work unrelated to their skills or aspirations. The Yuva Sathi scheme aims to reduce that pressure by offering temporary financial support so that job seekers can focus on finding suitable employment instead of taking up low-pay or unsuitable work out of necessity.

The initiative was announced ahead of upcoming state elections and is positioned as a welfare measure intended to empower youth economically. Policymakers believe that even modest financial aid can boost confidence, support job searches, and improve overall stability for unemployed individuals.

Application Timeline and Process

The application window opened on February 15, 2026, and will remain active until February 26, 2026. To make the process accessible, the state government has arranged 294 special application camps across the state where candidates can submit their completed forms along with required documents.

Applicants must first download the form from the scheme’s official portal, fill in accurate details, and submit it physically at designated camps. Authorities opted for this hybrid system—online form access combined with offline submission—to ensure that candidates without reliable internet access can still participate.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for benefits under the scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Age: Between 21 and 40 years

• Education: Minimum qualification of Class 10 pass

• Residency: Must be a permanent resident of West Bengal

Importantly, the government clarified that applicants already receiving benefits from other schemes or scholarships can still apply for this program. This provision is intended to broaden coverage and ensure that financial constraints do not prevent eligible youth from seeking employment opportunities.

When Payments Will Begin

Initially, there were indications that disbursements might start later in the year, but authorities have decided to advance the rollout. According to official information, payments will begin from April 2026, allowing beneficiaries to receive support sooner than expected. Funds will be transferred directly into registered bank accounts through direct benefit transfer systems, minimizing delays and ensuring transparency.

Potential Impact on Job Seekers

While ₹1,500 per month may not seem substantial, policymakers emphasize that even limited financial assistance can make a meaningful difference for unemployed youth. The amount can help cover transportation costs for interviews, internet access for job searches, or other essential expenses. Analysts note that such schemes often play a psychological as well as financial role, providing reassurance and motivation to individuals during their job-hunting phase.

With the deadline approaching, eligible candidates are encouraged to complete the application process promptly. Officials say the initiative underscores the government’s intention to address youth unemployment proactively and provide interim support until beneficiaries secure stable employment.

If implemented effectively, the Yuva Sathi scheme could become a model for targeted youth assistance programs aimed at bridging the gap between education and employment.