The COVID-19 pandemic left a profound impact on every corner of India, especially on migrant workers who had to return home under distressing circumstances. Recognizing their struggles, the Government of West Bengal has launched a compassionate and ambitious scheme called “Shramashree” — aimed at rehabilitating and empowering returning migrant workers. Under this scheme, eligible migrant workers will receive Rs 5,000 per month for a year, along with skill training and help to restart their livelihoods. If you or someone you know has returned to West Bengal after working in another state or country, this guide is for you.
What is the Shramashree Scheme?
The Shramashree Scheme is a social welfare program introduced by the Labour Department, Government of West Bengal, to support returning migrant workers. Launched in 2024, the scheme aims to help workers who lost their jobs outside the state and returned due to the pandemic, economic downturn, or personal reasons.
Key Benefits:
- Monthly Financial Aid: Rs 5,000 per month for 12 months.
- Skill Development: Free vocational and skill training.
- Employment Support: Access to job fairs and employment opportunities.
- Business Aid: Help with setting up small enterprises under other state schemes.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for the Shramashree Scheme, the applicant must meet the following eligibility criteria:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must be a permanent resident of West Bengal |
| Migrant Status | Must have worked outside West Bengal (in other Indian states or abroad) for at least 6 months |
| Return Period | Must have returned to West Bengal on or after January 1, 2020 |
| Age | Between 18 and 60 years |
| Employment Status | Currently unemployed or underemployed in West Bengal |
| Registration | Must be registered with the State Labour Department or Employment Bank |
| Income Limit | Family income should not exceed Rs 2.5 lakh per annum |
🔔 Note: Priority may be given to SC/ST/OBC categories, women, and persons with disabilities.
Documents Required
Ensure you have the following documents ready before applying online or offline:
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID Card or Ration Card (for proof of residence)
- Passport or Work Permit (if returned from abroad)
- Proof of employment outside the state (salary slip, job card, employer letter, etc.)
- Bank Passbook (with IFSC Code)
- Passport-size Photograph
- Mobile Number linked with Aadhaar
- Income Certificate
- Age Proof (Birth Certificate / School Certificate)
- Unemployment Declaration (format available during application)
How to Apply for the Shramashree Scheme
You can apply for the scheme both online and offline, depending on your convenience.
✅ Online Application Process
Here’s the step-by-step guide to apply for the Shramashree Scheme online:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
- Go to the official portal of the Labour Department, West Bengal:
👉 https://wblabour.gov.in/ or https://karmasathips.wb.gov.in/
Step 2: Find the “Shramashree Scheme” Section
- On the homepage, look for the banner or menu titled “Shramashree Scheme for Migrant Workers”
- Alternatively, you can go to the Schemes section and search for Shramashree
Step 3: Register on the Portal
- Click on “New User Registration”
- Fill in your details:
- Full Name
- Date of Birth
- Mobile Number
- Aadhaar Number
- District & Block
- You will receive an OTP on your mobile; enter it to verify.
Step 4: Fill in the Application Form
- After verification, log in to your dashboard
- Click on “Apply for Shramashree Scheme”
- Enter the required information:
- Employment details outside West Bengal
- Return date and reason
- Bank details for direct benefit transfer (DBT)
- Skill or vocational training interest (optional)
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies (PDF/JPG) of all required documents:
- Identity proof
- Employment proof
- Address proof
- Income certificate
- Bank passbook, etc.
Ensure documents are clear, not larger than 2 MB, and named correctly.
Step 6: Submit the Application
- Review your application thoroughly
- Click “Submit”
- You will get an Application ID — save or print it for tracking
Step 7: Track Your Application
- Go back to the home page and click on “Track Application”
- Enter your Application ID and Mobile Number
- You can check the status: “Pending”, “Under Verification”, “Approved”, or “Disbursed”
📱 Steps to Apply via Mobile App (Official App)
Below is a step‑by‑step process to apply for the Shramashree / Parijayee Shramik scheme using the Android app (APK or Play Store) once you have the app safely installed.
Step 1: Download & Install the Official App
- Open your phone’s Settings → Security and enable “Install from Unknown Sources” (if installing via APK).
- Visit the official Karmasathi (Parijayee Shramik) portal:
https://karmasathips.wb.gov.inand look for a link saying “Download App / APK”. (If present) - If not from portal, check trusted platforms like Google Play. If it’s officially published, it’s safer.
- Download the APK (if from portal) or install via Play Store. Make sure version number and developer name match (Govt of West Bengal).
- Install the app. Grant required permissions (only what’s necessary: storage, camera possibly, SMS / OTP reading maybe).
Step 2: Register / Sign In
- Once installed, open the App.
- On home screen, you should see options like “Register” or “New User”. Tap that.
- Enter your mobile number, Aadhaar number, Name, Date of Birth, Guardian name (if required).
- Tap “Send OTP / Generate OTP”. Wait for OTP on that mobile number.
- Enter OTP to verify.
Step 3: Complete Profile
- After registration / login, fill your profile details:
- Permanent address (District, Block, Police Station / PS, PIN code)
- Category (SC / ST / OBC etc.)
- Gender, date of birth, voter ID or EPIC No.
- Other identity / residence proof as needed
- Bank details:
- Bank account number
- Bank name & branch
- IFSC code
- Passbook or first page as proof
- Employment / migrant details:
- Whether you worked outside West Bengal (or outside India)
- Duration of employment outside the state
- Reason for return
- Location of work outside (state / country)
- Nominee / family details if required (some apps ask for nominee for welfare benefits).
Step 4: Apply for Shramashree Scheme via App
- On dashboard / menu, find “Apply for Shramashree / Migrant Workers Welfare Scheme / Financial Assistance” or similar.
- Fill the application form:
- Confirm details already entered
- Upload required documents:
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID or EPIC
- Employment proof from outside state (e.g. salary slip / job card / employer letter)
- Photograph
- Bank passbook scan
- Return / travel proof if asked
- Indicate the date you returned to West Bengal
- Review all entries carefully. Make sure all spellings, bank details, Aadhaar etc are correct.
Step 5: Submit Application & Track Status
- After uploading documents and completing form, tap “Submit” or “Final Submit”.
- On successful submission you will be given an Application ID / Registration Number. Save it or take a screenshot.
- Use the app to Track Status of your application. It might show: Submitted → Under Verification → Approved / Rejected / Payment Disbursed etc.
✅ Offline Application Process
If you don’t have access to the internet, follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit Local Labour Office / BDO Office
- Go to the nearest Labour Office, BDO office, or Duare Sarkar camp in your area.
Step 2: Collect the Application Form
- Ask for the Shramashree Scheme Form
- You can also download and print it from https://karmasathips.wb.gov.in/
Step 3: Fill and Submit the Form
- Fill the form in BLOCK LETTERS
- Attach photocopies of required documents
- Submit it to the concerned officer
- Ask for a receipt or acknowledgment
Verification & Approval Process
Once submitted, your application goes through the following process:
- Initial Scrutiny – Labour office checks the form for completeness
- Document Verification – Officials verify employment and residency proofs
- Home Visit (if needed) – A field officer may visit to confirm details
- Approval by District Labour Officer (DLO)
- Monthly Disbursement – Once approved, Rs 5,000 is credited monthly to your bank account
The entire process may take 15–30 working days, depending on volume and district.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply if I returned in 2020 or 2021?
Yes, as long as you returned on or after January 1, 2020, and meet other eligibility criteria.
Q2: Is Aadhaar mandatory?
Yes, Aadhaar is required for identity verification and direct bank transfers.
Q3: Will I need to renew the application every month?
No. Once your application is approved, you will receive the monthly payment automatically for 12 months.
Q4: Can I apply if I already benefit from other schemes like Kanyashree or Lakshmir Bhandar?
Yes, Shramashree can be availed in addition to other state schemes.
Q5: What if my application is rejected?
You will be notified with the reason. You can correct the errors and reapply within 30 days.
Shramashree Scheme vs. Other Welfare Schemes in WB
| Scheme | Target Group | Monthly Benefit | Extra Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shramashree | Returning migrant workers | ₹5,000 | Skill training, employment help |
| Lakshmir Bhandar | Women (25–60 yrs) | ₹500–1,000 | Financial inclusion |
| Karmasathi Prakalpa | Unemployed youth | Loan & subsidy | Self-employment support |
| Manabik Scheme | PwDs | ₹1,000 | Financial help |
Tips for Successful Application
- ✔️ Double-check your bank details
- ✔️ Ensure all uploaded documents are valid and updated
- ✔️ Provide accurate dates and job history
- ✔️ Use a working phone number linked with Aadhaar
- ✔️ Avoid multiple submissions — it may delay processing
Important Contacts & Helpline
If you face issues or need help during the application:
- Labour Department Helpline: 1800-103-0009 (Toll-free)
- Official Email: labour@wb.gov.in
- Local Labour Office: Visit during working hours (Mon–Fri, 10 am–4 pm)
Conclusion
The Shramashree Scheme is a significant step by the West Bengal government toward **dignifying the contributions of migrant workers
** and offering them a new start back home. With financial assistance, skill training, and employment support — this scheme promises to bring real change to thousands of families.
If you or someone you know has returned to Bengal in recent years and is struggling to rebuild — don’t miss this opportunity. The application process is straightforward, and help is available at every step.
