Besides youth, Swanirbhar Bangla to uplift farmers & women
The Statesman | 18 February 2026
The Swanirbhar Bangla campaign of the state government has been designed as a comprehensive outreach initiative to connect citizens with key welfare and empowerment schemes through a single, accessible platform.
Under the campaign, besides a large presence of youth, the participation of farmers and women has also been remarkable. For the youth of Hooghly, the scheme represents not merely a programme but a promise ~ of inclusion in the state’s growth story and of support in building a stable future.
Alongside youth empowerment, the campaign has also brought significant hope to the agrarian community. The financial assistance scheme for landless agricultural labourers witnessed encouraging participation, with many from rural blocks attending the camps to secure support that can cushion livelihoods and strengthen rural resilience. Farmers and agricultural workers also responded positively to the announcement of the waiver of irrigation-related charges for government tubewells and river lift irrigation schemes. This measure, which directly reduces input costs, has the potential to ease the financial burden on cultivators and enhance agricultural productivity ~ particularly significant in a district where agriculture remains a key pillar of the local economy.
The inclusive character of the camps was equally evident. Women beneficiaries exploring schemes such as Lakshmir Bhandar, elderly citizens and persons with disabilities were provided dedicated facilitation and assistance.