Inter-caste marriages promote social harmony and help eradicate discrimination. To support such unions, the Government of Maharashtra’s Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance has introduced the Incentive for Encouraging Inter-Caste Marriages scheme. This initiative provides financial aid to eligible couples, encouraging inclusivity and breaking societal barriers.
What is the Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme?
This scheme is jointly funded by the State and Central Government (50:50) and offers financial assistance of ₹50,000 to couples where one spouse belongs to the Savarna Hindu community (Hindu, Jain, Lingayat, or Sikh) and the other belongs to the Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), Vimukta Jati, Nomadic Tribe, or Special Backward Class (SBC).
Benefits of the Scheme
- A financial incentive of ₹50,000 is provided to the couple.
- The amount is issued as a joint draft in the names of both spouses.
- The scheme promotes social integration and eradicates untouchability.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To be eligible for this scheme, the couple must meet the following criteria:
- Both the bride and groom must be permanent residents of Maharashtra.
- One spouse must belong to the Savarna Hindu community (Hindu, Jain, Lingayat, or Sikh).
- The other spouse must belong to Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), Vimukta Jati, Nomadic Tribe, or Special Backward Class (SBC).
- The groom must be at least 21 years old, and the bride must be at least 18 years old.
How to Apply for the Scheme?
The application process for this scheme is offline. Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Visit the Social Welfare Office
- The applicant must visit the District Social Welfare Office in their district.
- If the applicant resides in Mumbai City or Mumbai Suburbs, they must visit the Social Welfare Office in Chembur.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
- Collect the application form from the office.
- Fill in all the required details carefully.
- Attach a passport-sized photograph of the couple (signed across if required).
Step 3: Submit the Application
- Attach self-attested copies of all required documents.
- Submit the completed application form and documents to the concerned authority within the prescribed period (if applicable).
Step 4: Collect the Acknowledgment Receipt
- After submission, request an acknowledgment receipt from the office.
- Ensure the receipt includes the date, time of submission, and unique identification number (if applicable).
Documents Required for Application
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents:
- Application Form (obtained from the Social Welfare Office)
- Caste Certificates (of both spouses)
- Permanent Resident Proof (e.g., Aadhaar card, Ration card, Electricity bill, etc.)
- Age Proof (School leaving certificate showing the groom is 21+ years and the bride is 18+ years)
- Joint Photograph (A recent photograph of the couple together)
- Recommendation Letters (Two letters from respected individuals attesting to the marriage)
- Bank Details (Joint bank account details in both spouses’ names)
- ID Proofs (Government-issued ID proof such as Aadhaar card, Voter ID)
- Income Certificate (If applicable, based on scheme-specific income criteria)
- Acknowledgment Receipt (To be received from the office upon submission)
Conclusion
The Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme is a commendable step towards promoting equality and breaking caste-based discrimination in society. By providing financial assistance, the government encourages inter-caste marriages and ensures that such couples receive support. If you or someone you know qualifies for this scheme, visit the nearest District Social Welfare Office and apply today!
For more details, reach out to the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance, Maharashtra or visit your local Social Welfare Office.
