West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on September 29, 2026, that his government has rebranded the Sabuj Sathi bicycle distribution scheme, previously launched by the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government, as Sarathi. Speaking at a cycle distribution event in Howrah, Adhikari stated that 12.59 lakh students will receive bicycles under the new scheme during the current academic year. The state government has allocated Rs 300 crore as a composite grant for schools under the Sarathi scheme.

Adhikari accused the previous TMC government of procuring 'substandard' bicycles under the Sabuj Sathi scheme. He also alleged that the TMC government provided scholarships to students from a particular community as part of what he described as 'appeasement politics.' Adhikari claimed his government will ensure scholarships are available to all communities, including Sanatani Hindus and students of other faiths.

The CM further stated that his government would not provide Rs 10,000 to higher secondary students for smartphones and tablets, as was done by the previous administration. Instead, students will receive a higher amount to purchase learning materials. Adhikari also accused the Left and TMC governments of shutting down NCC programmes in schools and said he had spoken to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh about reviving them.

Adhikari claimed that NCC units will be restored in educational institutions to improve students' physical fitness and promote national security. He emphasized the importance of nationalism and the ideals of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, who he said was instrumental in the formation of present West Bengal.

The rebranding of the scheme has raised questions about the government's approach to policy continuity and the implications for students. While Adhikari's claims about substandard bicycles and 'appeasement politics' are presented as allegations, no independent verification or evidence was provided in the supplied sources. The allocation of Rs 300 crore for the Sarathi scheme remains a significant detail, though the exact distribution and implementation mechanisms are not specified.

What remains unknown is the extent to which the new scheme will differ from the previous one, the quality of the bicycles being distributed, and the effectiveness of the proposed manufacturing facility in Howrah. The absence of a response from the TMC or Left parties leaves the allegations unchallenged, raising concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in the process.