The Government of Uttarakhand has also launched the Inter-Caste / Inter-Religious Marriage Award Scheme to promote social cohesion and to curb caste and religious discrimination. This scheme is implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and it helps the couples who decide to marry outside the realms of the traditional caste and religion. Through the financial assistance, the government will seek to encourage equality, social acceptance, and peaceful coexistence.
Overview of the Scheme
This scheme offers a financial incentive to married couples where:
- In inter-caste marriages, at least one spouse must belong to a Scheduled Caste (SC).
- In inter-religious marriages, both spouses must belong to different religions.
The assistance is provided jointly to the couple after verification and approval from the district authorities.
Key Benefits
- Financial Assistance: Eligible couples receive ₹50,000 as a one-time support grant.
- Encouragement of Social Harmony: The scheme promotes inclusivity, cultural tolerance, and equal rights.
- Government-Backed Support: The assistance is disbursed directly through the office of the District Magistrate after due verification.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Uttarakhand Inter-Caste / Inter-Religious Marriage Award Scheme, the couple must meet the following conditions:
- Residence: The couple must be permanent residents of Uttarakhand.
- Marital Status: The couple must be legally married.
- Inter-Caste Marriage Condition: At least one spouse must belong to a Scheduled Caste (SC).
- Inter-Religious Marriage Condition: The spouses must belong to different religions as recognised by law.
- Marriage Registration: A valid marriage certificate is mandatory.
- Bank Account: The couple must have a CBS bank account linked to Aadhaar.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents along with the application form:
- Identity proof of both spouses
- Proof of date of birth (High School Certificate / Birth Certificate / Family Register / Aadhaar Card)
- Marriage Registration Certificate
- Aadhaar-linked CBS Bank Account details
- Caste / Community Certificate (for inter-caste marriages)
- Proof of permanent residence in Uttarakhand
Application Process
The application process is offline and is completed through district authorities.
Step-by-Step Procedure:
- Obtain the application form from the District Social Welfare Office.
- Fill out the form carefully and attach all required documents.
- Submit the completed application to the District Social Welfare Officer.
- The application is verified and forwarded to the District Magistrate for recommendation.
- After review at the government level, the approved financial assistance is issued through a bank draft by the District Magistrate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for this scheme?
Permanent residents of Uttarakhand married couples who have undergone an inter-caste or inter-religious marriage.
2. What is the amount of financial assistance?
Eligible couples receive ₹50,000 jointly.
3. Is it necessary for one spouse to belong to a Scheduled Caste in inter-caste marriages?
Yes. In inter-caste marriages, one of the spouses has to be a member of Scheduled Caste.
4. What are the conditions for inter-religious marriages?
The married couple should have a religion of different faiths.
5. Is marriage registration mandatory?
Yes. A legal marriage certificate must be submitted.
6. Can couples living outside Uttarakhand apply?
No. Only permanent residents of Uttarakhand are eligible for this scheme.
Conclusion
The scheme of Inter-Caste / Inter-Religious Marriage Award Scheme in Uttarakhand is one of the necessary measures towards making the society more inclusive. Through financial assistance, the government not only promotes social cohesiveness but sends the message to couples who want to take progressive actions towards social obstacles. Couples who are eligible are encouraged to follow up on their marriage promptly and submit with the right documentation to ensure that they get the benefits without any hitch.
For more government schemes, updates, and step-by-step guides, keep visiting GovtSchemes.Blog.