One such notable welfare program is the Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy Ninaivu Inter-caste Marriage Assistance Scheme which is a welfare program launched by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, Government of Tamil Nadu. The scheme is meant to lower the caste-based discrimination and foster social solidarity by encouraging inter-caste marriages. The Government gives the financial support and other benefits to newly married inter-caste couples, which makes those initial years of marriage more stable and safe.
Objective of the Scheme
The main aim of the scheme is to get rid of caste and community barriers by facilitating marriages between people who are part of Scheduled Castes (SCs) or Scheduled Tribes (STs) with other communities. The Tamil Nadu Government promotes the adoption of inter-caste marriage and helps create a more inclusive society by providing financial resources.
Key Benefits Provided
Eligible couples under this scheme receive the following benefits:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Financial Assistance | A total assistance amount of ₹25,000 is provided. |
| Gold Coin | 1 Sovereign (8 grams) of 22-carat gold is given for crafting the Thirumangalyam. |
| Mode of Payment | ₹15,000 is transferred via Electronic Clearing Service (ECS) and ₹10,000 is given in the form of a National Savings Certificate (NSC). |
This structure ensures both immediate financial support and a secure savings opportunity for the future.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to apply in the Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy Ninaivu Inter-caste Marriage Assistance Scheme the following conditions should be satisfied:
- Inter-caste Marriage Requirement
One of the spouses should be a Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) with the other spouse being a member of another community. - Educational Qualification
- The bride must have passed at least the 10th Standard.
- For Scheduled Tribe applicants, a minimum of 5th Standard education is accepted.
- Age Requirement
The bride must be at least 18 years old at the time of marriage. - Time Limit for Application
The application must be submitted within two years from the date of marriage.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following:
- Marriage Invitation or Marriage Registration Certificate
- Community Certificate of the bride
- Community Certificate of the bridegroom
- Age Certificate of the bride
Having these documents ready beforehand ensures a smooth application process.
Application Process (Online via CSC)
The application is primarily processed through Common Service Centres (CSCs) across Tamil Nadu. Below are the steps:
Step 1: Gather all required documents in photocopy or scanned format.
Step 2: Visit your nearest CSC and complete biometric verification.
Step 3: Fill in the application form on the portal and upload the necessary documents.
Step 4: Collect the acknowledgement receipt which includes the application submission details and reference number.
This receipt should be kept safe until the application is fully processed and the benefits are disbursed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main purpose of this scheme?
The scheme will help in fostering social equality by facilitating inter-caste marriages with the help of a financial support.
2. How is the financial assistance disbursed?
This is transferred electronically ₹15,000 and ₹10,000 given as National Savings Certificate and 1 Sovereign of gold respectively.
3. Can I apply offline?
Applications are made with the help of the internet through the CSC centres whereby the applications and documents are electronically submitted.
4. What is the time limit for applying?
Applications must be submitted within two years of marriage.
5. Is there an educational requirement?
Yes. The bride should have completed the 10 th Standard (5 th Standard in case of ST applicants).
Conclusion
The Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy Ninaivu Inter-caste Marriage Assistance Scheme is an important measure towards the promotion of social harmony and equality in Tamil Nadu. Through providing financial assistance and encouragement to inter-caste couples, the Government will ensure such marriages get more acceptable and celebrated by the society. The couples who qualify should apply within the period stipulated in order to maximize on the scheme.
For more detailed guidance on government schemes and welfare benefits in India, continue exploring GovtSchemes.Blog.