West Bengal’s Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari unveils a renamed bicycle distribution programme, rebranding the Mamata-era “Sabuj Sathi” scheme as “Sarathi.” The government says 12.59 lakh students will receive bicycles under the new initiative.
In explaining the change, Adhikari says the previous TMC administration procured “substandard” bicycles and provides bicycles to students under the earlier scheme. Both outlets report that Adhikari presents the update as part of broader improvements, including promises to address bicycle quality and expand related opportunities for students.
Beyond the renaming, the reports also mention plans for manufacturing capacity in Howrah to improve or support bicycle production. They further state that the government is extending scholarship opportunities and is considering a revival of NCC-related programmes, with the stated aims of supporting fitness and related national-security objectives. Sources differ mainly in emphasis, with both agreeing on the rebrand, the stated student coverage, and the critique of the prior scheme’s procurement.
