Kolkata

Suvendu Adhikari on Monday announced that the newly formed government in West Bengal has decided to implement Ayushman Bharat and roll out major welfare programmes of the Union government across the state.

Addressing the media after the first Cabinet meeting at Nabanna, Adhikari said the state would move forward with what he described as a model of “good governance, security and double-engine development,” in line with other BJP-ruled states.

He said the new government remained committed to the ideals of B R Ambedkar and the principle of governance “for the people, by the people, of the people.”

The Cabinet also expressed gratitude to voters, administrative officials and all stakeholders involved in conducting what the government described as a peaceful and fair election.

The government paid tribute to BJP workers who lost their lives in political violence and assured action against those responsible, he said.

Giving priority to border security, the Cabinet approved the transfer of land to the Border Security Force for border fencing. The Chief Secretary and the Land and Land Reforms Department have been directed to complete the process within 45 days.

Adhikari said the state has formally decided to join Ayushman Bharat, and officials have been instructed to complete the required agreement with the Union Health Ministry at the earliest.

He said the government has initiated steps to implement major Central schemes, including:

• Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
• PM SHRI
• PM Vishwakarma
• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
• Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

District magistrates have been instructed to expedite applications related to these programmes, he said.

As part of administrative reforms, IAS officers in the state will now participate in Central training programmes. The government has also decided to fully implement the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita in the state.

The Cabinet further approved a five-year increase in the upper age limit for government job applicants to improve employment opportunities for youth.

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Adhikari said ongoing welfare schemes would continue, but would now function through a more transparent system to ensure benefits reach eligible citizens.