The West Bengal Cabinet approved in principle the formation of the 7th Pay Commission, which will affect state government employees as well as staff of state-aided institutions, government boards and corporations. The state government made a number of decisions today at the Nabanna state secretariat under the leadership of Chief Minister Suvendu. AgnimitraPaul, Minister of Women and Child Development and Social Welfare in West Bengal, told the media that the West Bengal Government also approved the discontinuation, effective 1st June, of several Direct Benefits Transfer schemes within the Information and Cultural Affairs Department and Minority and Madrasah Department. Scholarship schemes will continue to be offered by these departments. The Cabinet also approved free transport for women in the entire state. The new Annapurna Bhandar Scheme is set to launch on the first of next month. Women who qualify will receive a three thousand rupee Direct Benefit Transfer. The scheme will be open to those who are applying for citizenship in accordance with the Citizenship Amendment Act as well as those that have applied to various tribunals. A dedicated portal for enrollment will be launched. The state government has also announced that West Bengal’s OBC list will be updated following the recent Calcutta High Court judgement.