Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday announced a series of welfare measures, including ₹5 fish-and-rice meals through 400 dedicated canteens, monthly financial support for women, and restrictions on liquor shops near educational and religious institutions.
Addressing a public gathering, the Chief Minister said special government canteens would soon provide fish and rice meals at just ₹5 to support poor and needy citizens. The initiative is aimed at strengthening affordable food access across the state.
“Fish-rice meals will be made available for ₹5 at 400 dedicated canteens across Bengal.”
– CM Suvendu Adhikari after an administrative review meeting at Kalyani pic.twitter.com/3DUTH1leyT
— News Arena India (@NewsArenaIndia) May 26, 2026
He also unveiled the proposed ‘Annapurna Scheme’, under which eligible women will receive ₹3,000 per month as financial assistance. Application forms for the scheme will be distributed from May 27, he said.
In another major announcement, the Chief Minister declared that liquor shops would not be allowed within a one-kilometre radius of schools, colleges, and temples, describing the move as a step toward social reform and public safety.
Highlighting governance reforms, Adhikari said the government believes in the “rule of law” and is focused on ensuring welfare schemes reach every section of society through direct public outreach and stronger grassroots implementation.
