In India, love marriages—especially inter-caste marriages—are supported by several state and central government schemes that offer financial assistance to promote social harmony and reduce caste-based discrimination.
đź’ˇ What is the Love Marriage Scheme?
The love marriage scheme—officially known as the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Scheme for Social Integration through Inter-Caste Marriages—is a central government initiative under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
This scheme mainly encourages inter-caste marriages, particularly where one partner to a Scheduled Caste (SC) and the other partner belongs to a non-SC category.
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🎯 Objectives of the Scheme
Promote equality and eliminate caste discrimination.
Encourage social integration through inter-caste marriages.
Support couples facing social or financial challenges due to their marriage choice.
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đź’° Financial Assistance Provided
Under the scheme, eligible couples are provided with a one-time financial incentive of â‚ą2.5 lakh by the Central Government.
Some State Governments also have separate schemes that offer additional financial assistance ranging from â‚ą50,000 to â‚ą5,00,000 depending on the state policy.
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đź“‹ Eligibility Criteria
To get the benefit of the scheme:
1. One spouse must belong to a Scheduled Caste (SC), and the other to a non-SC community.
2. The marriage must be a first marriage for both partners (exceptions apply for widows/widowers).
3. The couple should be legally married under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 or any other applicable law.
4. The marriage should be registered.
5. Application must be made within 1 year of marriage (some states allow up to 2 years).
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🏛️ Documents Required
Marriage Certificate
Caste Certificate of SC partner
Aadhar Cards of both spouses
Bank account details (Joint account preferred)
Passport-size photographs
Residential proof
Income certificate (if applicable)
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đź“Ś How to Apply
Step 1: Visit the official website of the Social Welfare Department of your state or the central scheme portal.
Step 2: Download and fill out the application form.
Step 3: Submit it along with the required documents at the local district social welfare office.
Step 4: Some states offer online application submission.
Step 5: After verification, the amount will be transferred to the joint bank account.
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🌍 State-Wise Initiatives (Examples)
Karnataka: Provides up to â‚ą3 lakh for inter-caste couples.
Maharashtra: ₹50,000–₹3 lakh for inter-caste marriages.
Tamil Nadu: â‚ą2.5 lakh assistance with gold coin or gift items.
Punjab: â‚ą2.5 lakh for SC + non-SC inter-caste marriages.
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⚠️ Important Notes
The scheme is only for genuine marriages, not for fraudulent or fake ones.
Couples must maintain the marriage for at least 5 years, else the amount may be recovered.
Some states give half amount after marriage, and the remaining after 1 year.
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🙋 Benefits of the Scheme
Financial support to newlyweds
Encouragement for social unity
Reduced discrimination in rural and urban areas
Boosts courage for love marriage couples
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🔚 Conclusion
The love marriage/inter-caste marriage assistance scheme is a major step toward a progressive, inclusive India. If you or someone you know has entered into such a marriage, don’t miss this opportunity. It can help start your new life with financial stability and government support.
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