Raju Bista Raises Concern Over Youth Unemployment in West Bengal

KalimNews, March 6, 2026 : Commenting on information and reports published in various newspapers regarding the Banglar Yuva Sathi scheme, Member of Parliament Raju Bista expressed concern over the growing unemployment situation among the youth in West Bengal.

Referring to the reports, Bista stated that around 84 lakh youths in West Bengal have applied for the Banglar Yuva Sathi scheme. According to him, the large number of applications reflects the serious economic and financial challenges faced by young people in the state, as well as the rising unemployment problem.

At the same time, the Banglar Yuva Sathi scheme (2026) is an initiative of the Government of West Bengal launched through the Department of Youth Services & Sports to provide financial assistance to unemployed educated youths. Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries receive ₹1,500 per month through direct bank transfer for a period of up to five years. The programme is aimed at offering temporary financial relief and support to young people who are seeking employment.

According to the scheme guidelines, applicants must be permanent residents of West Bengal, aged between 21 and 40 years as of April 1, 2026, unemployed, and must have passed the Madhyamik (Class 10) or an equivalent examination. The financial assistance continues for a maximum period of five years, but the benefit is discontinued once the individual gains employment or enrolls in another conflicting state scheme.

Reports from late February 2026 indicate that more than 77 lakh registrations were received soon after the scheme was launched, highlighting the large number of youths seeking support while searching for employment opportunities.

Bista further remarked that the figures suggest that unemployment in West Bengal stands at around 13 percent under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, which he said is nearly three times higher than the national average of about 4.5 percent.

He added that the situation reflects what he described as serious governance and employment challenges faced by the state over the past 15 years under the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. At the same time, the scheme has also been viewed as a measure by the state government to provide temporary financial assistance and relief to unemployed youths while they look for work.

The issue of youth employment continues to remain a major topic of discussion in West Bengal, with policymakers, political leaders, and citizens emphasizing the need for sustainable job creation and long-term economic opportunities for the younger generation.