Mamata Banerjee Launches ‘Shramshree’ Scheme for Migrant Workers, Mandates Daily Bengali Film Screenings

Kolkata Aug 2025 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has unveiled a new rehabilitation programme, the “Shramshree” scheme, designed to support Bengali migrant workers who have returned to the state after reportedly facing harassment and discrimination in other parts of India.

Speaking to the media on Monday, Banerjee said the initiative was a response to the challenges faced by workers outside Bengal. “Because of speaking Bengali, other states declared them criminals. Twenty-two lakh migrant workers from West Bengal are working in other states. Today, they are suffering because of speaking Bengali,” she remarked.

Financial Aid for Returning Workers

Under the Shramshree scheme, every migrant worker returning to Bengal will receive Rs 5,000 per month for one year, or until they secure alternative employment within the state. The scheme will be implemented by the Labour Department, specifically targeting Bengali workers who have relocated back home.

Banerjee explained: “When migrant workers return to Bengal, the government will provide them Rs 5,000 for one year as financial help. This scheme will start soon under the Labour Department, and it is meant only for Bengali migrant workers.”

The scheme is being projected as both a welfare initiative and an attempt to address the social impact of outmigration by ensuring a safety net for those forced to return.

Push for Bengali Cinema in Theatres

In a parallel move to promote regional culture, the state government has directed all cinema halls and multiplexes across West Bengal to screen at least one Bengali film daily during prime time.

The Information and Cultural Affairs Department issued an order mandating 365 prime-time screenings of Bengali films per year in every cinema hall. Prime-time has been defined as the 3 pm to 9 pm slot.

The notification stated: “After carefully considering all aspects of the matter, and in exercise of the power conferred by subsection (3) of section 5 of the West Bengal Cinema (Regulation) Act, 1954, the Governor hereby issues the following directions to all licensees in the State.”

It added that necessary amendments to the West Bengal Cinema (Regulation of Public Exhibitions) Rules, 1956 would be made in due course, but the order would come into force with immediate effect and remain until further notice.

Strengthening Regional Industry

The decision comes at a time when pan-India films are dominating screens nationwide. Officials say the move is aimed at increasing the visibility of Bengali films, protecting the interests of regional filmmakers, and reinforcing cultural identity.

In recent years, the government has also encouraged the establishment of mini cinema halls dedicated to Bengali films. A letter from the chief secretary’s office noted: “We have received several proposals for setting up infrastructure for screening mini cinemas (focusing exclusively on Bengali cinema and content). This has the potential to act as a catalyst for the growth of the Bengali film industry, while also benefiting local businesses.”

Cultural and Economic Impact

Observers believe that both the Shramshree scheme and the cinema mandate reflect the government’s attempt to blend social welfare with cultural promotion. While Shramshree provides immediate financial assistance to struggling workers, the film directive is expected to boost local cinema, generate employment in the entertainment sector, and strengthen small businesses tied to the industry.

Together, the initiatives are being framed as a comprehensive step towards protecting migrant workers, preserving cultural identity, and sustaining Bengal’s economy.