Inter-caste marriages play a vital role in promoting social equality and reducing caste-based discrimination in India. To encourage such marriages, the Central Government and several state governments offer financial assistance to eligible couples. These schemes provide economic support while promoting constitutional values of equality, dignity, and social integration.
Below is a state-wise overview of some major inter-caste marriage assistance schemes.
| State | Scheme Name | Maximum Financial Assistance | Key Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Government | Dr. Ambedkar Scheme for Social Integration through Inter-Caste Marriages | Up to ₹2.5 lakh | One spouse must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC); marriage should be legally registered and meet scheme guidelines. |
| Andhra Pradesh | YSR Kalyanamastu / YSR Shaadi Tohfa | Higher assistance for eligible inter-caste marriages (subject to government norms) | Age, income, caste, and marriage registration criteria apply. |
| Telangana | Dr. Ambedkar Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme | Up to ₹2.5 lakh | One spouse should belong to the SC community; marriage must be legally registered. |
| Karnataka | Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme | Up to ₹3 lakh (as per applicable government rules) | One spouse must belong to the SC/ST community, with required documentation. |
| Tamil Nadu | Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy Inter-Caste Marriage Assistance Scheme | Up to ₹2.5 lakh (cash and savings certificate, depending on eligibility) | Assistance varies based on the communities of the bride and groom. |
| Maharashtra | Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme | Up to ₹3 lakh | One spouse should belong to the SC category and satisfy eligibility conditions. |
| Odisha | Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme | Up to ₹2.5 lakh | Financial support for eligible couples promoting social integration. |
| Rajasthan | Dr. Savita Ben Ambedkar Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme | Up to ₹10 lakh (subject to prevailing government policy) | Applicable for eligible inter-caste marriages meeting state guidelines. |
| Haryana | Inter-Caste Marriage Promotion Scheme | Up to ₹2.5 lakh | Financial assistance for eligible couples where one spouse belongs to the SC community. |
Common Eligibility Criteria
- Both partners must be of legal marriage age.
- The marriage must be legally registered.
- One spouse should belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category in most schemes.
- Aadhaar Card, caste certificate, income certificate, marriage certificate, bank account details, and passport-size photographs are generally required.
- The marriage should usually be the first marriage for both spouses, depending on the scheme.
Important Links
Inter-caste marriage incentive schemes are designed to promote social harmony and support couples who choose to marry beyond caste barriers. While the Central Government provides assistance under the Dr. Ambedkar Scheme, several states offer additional financial benefits with their own eligibility rules. Couples should always verify the latest guidelines, benefit amounts, and application procedures through their respective state government welfare departments before applying.
