Jana Kalyan Shivir Sees 7.89 Lakh Visitors on Opening Day; Annapurna, Ayushman Bharat Attract Largest Crowds

MP, June 16, 2026, Kolkata: Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday launched the state government’s first citizen-service outreach programme, Jana Kalyan Shivir (JKS), from Reyapara in Nandigram to ensure benefits of central and state welfare schemes reach citizens in a transparent and hassle-free manner.

The first day of the three-day programme witnessed more than 7.89 lakh people visiting 1,025 camps across the state.

Women accounted for 4,21,403 participants, outnumbering 3,67,174 men.

Officials attributed the turnout to growing awareness among women about welfare schemes and public services.

Among welfare schemes, Annapurna Bhandar and Ayushman Bharat emerged as the biggest crowd-pullers, attracting nearly half the visitors.

North 24 Parganas recorded the highest turnout with 84,277 visitors at 129 camps, followed by Hooghly (56,899), South 24 Parganas (54,802) and Kolkata (10,886 at 16 camps).

Adhikari said every eligible beneficiary should receive welfare benefits without difficulty.

Citizens can access services under 55 welfare schemes through the camps.

He announced that financial assistance of Rs 3,000 each has already been transferred to around 79 lakh women under the Annapurna Yojana.

He said the Centre has released Rs 700 crore for 20 days of work under the state’s NREGS programme this month.

Adhikari said the Viksit Bharat–Rozgar aur Aajeevika Guarantee Mission–Gramin (VBG-RAM-G) and the central housing scheme would come into effect from July 1, with Rs 8,500 crore earmarked for the expanded 125-day employment programme.

A fresh survey under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana is underway till July 20.

Those who believe they have been unfairly excluded can register complaints through a dedicated toll-free helpline.

The Centre has approved Rs 2,400 crore for the scheme, of which Rs 1,000 crore has already been transferred, he said.

Adhikari also promised expanded employment opportunities, easier access to loans for small and medium businesses, improved roads, wider drinking water coverage and healthcare modernisation.

He said the June 22 state budget would contain welfare measures.

Adhikari is scheduled to visit Kurseong on Tuesday and Falta subsequently to review camp operations and public feedback.