India’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, yet caste lines continue to divide society. Inter-caste marriages can help bridge this gap, promoting unity beyond traditional barriers. The central government aims to encourage social integration through the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Scheme for Inter-Caste Marriage.
This provides ₹2.5 lakh to couples where either the husband or wife belongs to a marginalized community. Let’s explore the scheme details and application process to access benefits.
Breaking Barriers with Financial Assistance
The Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Scheme helps inter-caste couples establish their new lives by providing:
- A one-time incentive of ₹2.5 lakh
- No income ceiling for eligibility
- Simple documentation and online application
By supporting inter-caste unions, the scheme fosters greater social equality beyond the narrow confines of caste. The revised guidelines ease access to benefits, aiming to encourage more applications.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible under the scheme:
- One partner must belong to a Dalit community
- The interfaith marriage must be formally registered under the Hindu Marriage Act.
- Applications must be submitted within 1 year of marriage
Required Documents
When applying online, have these documents ready:
- Marriage certificate
- Aadhaar card of both applicants
- Joint bank account details
- Address proof of the couple
Online Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for inter-caste marriage incentives online:
- Visit the portal at www.samarth.gov.in
- Click on “Online application for inter-caste marriage”
- Fill in personal details of bride and groom
- Upload eligibility documents
- Submit the completed application
Once submitted, the application will be verified. If approved, the amount is directly transferred to the couple’s account within 60 days.
Track Application Status
To check the status of your application:
- Visit the portal and click on “Application status”
- Enter the registration number
- View latest status update
Transforming Society
The inter-caste marriage scheme aims to build a society where lineage does not determine a person’s worth or potential. By incentivizing inter-caste unions, the initiative promotes the breakdown of rigid social barriers that have oppressed Dalit communities for centuries.
Providing financial assistance eases the journey of couples taking this important step towards an equitable India. Each union of hearts can inspire many others. ₹2.5 lakh is a small investment that can yield great social returns, helping write a new chapter of social harmony.
