The first cabinet meeting of the new Suvendu Adhikari-led West Bengal government was held at Nabanna on May 12, 2026, where several major policy decisions were announced. The meeting marked a significant administrative shift after the BJP formed government in the state for the first time. Ayushman Bharat to be implemented in West Bengal.The cabinet approved the rollout of the central health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat in the state.
The new government said the scheme would work alongside existing state health initiatives so beneficiaries continue receiving healthcare support.Border fencing land transfer to BSF.The government directed the Land and Land Reforms Department to transfer pending land required for fencing along the India-Bangladesh border to the Border Security Force within 45 days. The administration described the move as essential for national security and border management. Immediate start of delayed Census operations.The cabinet cleared the commencement of long-pending Census activities in the state. The Chief Minister stated that updated population data would be important for future planning, governance, and delimitation exercises.
Implementation of new criminal laws.The state government approved the rollout of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), replacing colonial-era criminal laws in the state administration and policing system.Continuation of existing welfare schemes.The cabinet assured that popular schemes introduced during the previous Mamata Banerjee government, including Lakshmir Bhandar and Swasthya Sathi, would continue. The administration also announced plans to integrate central schemes with state programmes. Expansion of Central Welfare Programmes The government approved the implementation of several central schemes such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, PM Vishwakarma, and the expansion of pending Ujjwala Yojana applications.
Increase in government job age limit.The cabinet increased the upper age limit for entry into state government jobs from 40 years to 45 years. The decision was aimed at helping candidates affected by recruitment delays over the past decade. Future cabinet discussions on DA and 7th Pay Commission.The Chief Minister announced that issues related to Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears and implementation of the 7th Pay Commission would be discussed in the next cabinet meeting scheduled for May 18. The government described these decisions as part of a broader push toward “good governance,” administrative reforms, and stronger coordination with the Centre.
