The Himachal Pradesh Intercaste Marriage Scheme is a social welfare scheme introduced by the department of social justice and empowerment, Government of Himachal Pradesh. The scheme promotes inter-caste marriages as one of the measures of curbing social discrimination and thus promoting social harmony in the state.
In this scheme, the couples who are eligible get financial aid to the tune of up to Rs. 50,000 to get their married life started with an extra support.
Key Objective of the Scheme
The main objective of the plan is to foster social inclusion and prevent caste based biases. Through financial support, the government aims at enticing more couples to be companions across caste lines.
Benefits of the Himachal Pradesh Inter-caste Marriage Scheme
- Financial Assistance up to Rs. 50,000
Eligible couples are provided monetary support to help them settle after marriage. - Amount Released in Installments
The assistance is generally provided in two phases – a portion released at the time of marriage registration, and the remaining amount released later as per departmental guidelines. - Flexible Use of Funds
The financial assistance can be utilised for:- Household expenses
- Setting up a home
- Childcare or education
- Any other essential needs of the couple
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the scheme, the couple must meet the following eligibility requirements:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Residence | Either the bride or groom must be a bonafide resident of Himachal Pradesh. |
| Caste Condition | The couple must belong to different castes. |
| Marriage Registration | The marriage must be legally registered under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. |
| Income Limit | The combined annual income of the couple should not exceed Rs. 5 lakh. |
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents along with the application form:
- Bonafide Himachali Certificate of either spouse
- Caste Certificates of both individuals
- Age Proof (such as Birth Certificate, Aadhaar, or School Certificate)
- Marriage Certificate registered under the Special Marriage Act, 1954
- No Objection Certificate if one partner belongs to another district
How to Apply (Offline Application Process)
- Register the Marriage
The couple must first register their marriage under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. - Obtain the Application Form
The application form is available at the District Social Welfare Office or can be downloaded from the official Himachal Pradesh government website. - Submit the Application
Fill the form carefully and attach all required documents. - Document Verification
The District Social Welfare Office will verify the submitted documents. - Disbursement of Funds
Once approved, the financial assistance will be transferred to the couple’s bank account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the Himachal Pradesh Inter-caste Marriage Scheme?
Couples in which one of the spouses is a bonafide resident of Himachal Pradesh, and both couples have different caste statuses, with a joint yearly income of less than Rs. 5 lakh are eligible.
2. What benefits are provided under the scheme?
Eligible couples are also provided with a financial aid of up to Rs. 50,000 that are issued in instalments.
3. Can the couple apply after their marriage is completed?
Yes, as long as the marriage has been registered under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, they can apply.
4. Can the financial assistance be used for any purpose?
Yes. It may be applied in household needs, family support, education or any other needs that may be necessary.
5. What is the purpose of the Inter-caste Marriage Scheme?
The scheme is meant to foster social equality, curb discrimination on the basis of caste and bring unity among citizens.
Conclusion
The Himachal Pradesh Inter-caste Marriage Scheme promotes couples that decide to create their life beyond the caste lines. Through providing financial support and promoting social acceptance, the initiative is a sign of the government in making the society more progressive and inclusive.
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