West Bengal Government Announces ₹5,000 Aid for 19,524 Tea Garden Workers Ahead of Diwali

Around 19,524 tea garden workers in West Bengal will receive a one-time payment of ₹5,000 each before Diwali and Kali Puja, as per The Economic Times news report.  

The state government is to spend ₹9.76 crore on the assistance, which will be credited directly to the beneficiaries' bank accounts.  

The announcement was made by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari at an administrative review meeting in Uttarkanya on Tuesday. He said a larger amount had initially been considered, but the government decided on ₹5,000 per worker because of the state's financial condition. 

Rice Quota May Rise to 50 Kg 

The monthly rice allocation for tea garden workers may also increase from the existing 35 kg to 50 kg. The proposal is being examined by the government, and the revised quantity could be provided from January. 

The proposed increase will cover workers in operational as well as closed tea gardens. 

21 Closed Gardens Await Reopening 

The state government is working to reopen 21 tea gardens in north Bengal that shut down during the previous government. Adhikari mentioned that Samsing tea garden and a few others had already reopened. 

Labour Minister Arjun Singh, who joined the meeting virtually from Kolkata, was asked to ensure that the reopening process moves forward. The chief minister asked workers to keep their job cards ready, saying employment-related work would begin soon. 

The government also plans to bring all tea garden workers under the Pradhan Mantri Chaa Shramik Yojana. Under the VBRAM-G scheme, eligible workers can receive 125 days of work at a daily wage of ₹300. 

Bonus Payments and Other Announcements 

On bonus payments, Adhikari said 95% of operational tea gardens had paid a 20% bonus this year. In comparison, workers received a 16% bonus last year, he said. 

The government is also looking to attract investment in the tea industry through branding, tourism and marketing. District magistrates have been directed to identify people who are yet to enrol under the Annapurna scheme, which provides ₹3,000 per month. Eligible elderly residents will receive a monthly pension of ₹1,500. 

The foundation stone for a medical college in Kalimpong is expected to be laid on December 9, 2026. 

Read More: Central Government Proposes New Import Locations in 5 States for Drugs, Medical Devices and Cosmetics! 

Conclusion  

The announcements include a one-time payment for tea garden workers, a possible increase in rice allocation and plans to reopen 21 closed gardens. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.