Introduction
The Sabooj Sathi Scheme is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of West Bengal to empower students by providing free bicycles. It is implemented with the help of Bangla Sahayata Kendras (BSKs) to make the application and information process easier for students and their families. This scheme reflects the state’s vision to encourage education and reduce dropout rates in rural and semi-urban areas.
What is the Sabooj Sathi Scheme?
The Sabooj Sathi Scheme was launched in 2015 by Hon’ble Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The objective of the scheme is to provide free bicycles to students of classes IX to XII studying in government and government-aided schools in West Bengal.
Key Objectives:
- To promote education and school attendance.
- To reduce dropout rates, especially among girls.
- To ensure sustainable transport for students in rural and remote areas.
Target Group:
- Students of Class 9 to Class 12
- Studying in Government/Government-aided/Local body-run schools across West Bengal.
Role of Bangla Sahayata Kendra (BSK)
Bangla Sahayata Kendras (BSKs) act as facilitation centers that help citizens access various government schemes and services free of cost.
Services Provided by BSK under Sabooj Sathi Scheme:
- Assisting students with online registration.
- Providing real-time status updates.
- Guiding families on eligibility and required documents.
- Helping in grievance redressal related to bicycle delivery or delays.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Sabooj Sathi Scheme, the student must meet the following conditions:
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must be a resident of West Bengal |
| School Type | Enrolled in a government or government-aided school |
| Class | Studying in Class 9, 10, 11, or 12 |
| Age Limit | No specific age bar, must be a valid school-going student |
Documents Required
Applicants need to keep the following documents ready:
- School ID Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Residential Certificate
- Passport-sized Photograph
- Class Certificate / Current Year Enrollment Proof
How to Apply for Sabooj Sathi Scheme via BSK
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply through Bangla Sahayata Kendra:
- Visit the nearest BSK center.
- Submit required documents to the officer.
- Officer will fill out the online application on the official portal: https://wbsaboojsathi.gov.in
- Get the Application ID/Tracking Number.
- Track status using the ID or follow up at the BSK.
How to Check Bicycle Distribution Status Online
Follow these steps:
- Go to the official Sabooj Sathi website: https://wbsaboojsathi.gov.in
- Click on “Distribution Status”.
- Enter details like:
- District
- Block/Municipality
- School Name
- Class and Gender
- View the status of delivery and expected distribution date.
Benefits of the Sabooj Sathi Scheme
1. Boosts Education
Free bicycles reduce travel time and increase punctuality, encouraging regular attendance.
2. Girls’ Empowerment
Ensures girl students feel safer commuting to school, thereby empowering women through education.
3. Reduces Dropouts
Eases the burden of transportation for poor families, especially in rural and tribal areas.
4. Environmental Benefits
Promotes eco-friendly travel and reduces dependence on fuel-based vehicles.
Sabooj Sathi Scheme Highlights (As of 2024)
| Feature | Data |
|---|---|
| Year of Launch | 2015 |
| Bicycles Distributed | Over 1 crore+ bicycles |
| Award | UN Momentum for Change Climate Action Award (2019) |
| Government Department | Department of School Education, West Bengal |
| Official Website | https://wbsaboojsathi.gov.in |
FAQs about Sabooj Sathi Scheme
Q1. Can private school students apply for Sabooj Sathi?
No, only students of government or government-aided schools are eligible.
Q2. Is there any application fee?
No, the scheme and services at BSK are completely free.
Q3. Can I apply for a second bicycle next year?
No, the bicycle is distributed only once per student during classes IX–XII.
Q4. What if I miss the registration window?
Visit your nearest BSK center immediately and request assistance.
Conclusion
The Sabooj Sathi Scheme by Bangla Sahayata Kendra is a life-changing initiative for thousands of school-going children in West Bengal. It bridges the gap between rural students and education, ensuring no child is left behind due to lack of transport. By availing services at BSKs, parents and students can easily register and track their bicycles without hassle. This is not just a scheme; it is a movement toward education, empowerment, and equity.