Introduction
India’s social fabric is deeply influenced by the caste system. Despite modernization, intercaste marriages often face resistance from families and society. To address this, the Government of India and state governments offer Intercaste Marriage Schemes that encourage unions between Scheduled Caste (SC) individuals and members of other castes by providing financial and social support.
National Scheme Overview
Scheme Name:
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Scheme for Social Integration through Intercaste Marriages
Launched by:
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India
Objective:
To promote social equality by incentivizing marriages between SC and non-SC individuals.
Eligibility:
- One spouse must be from SC category.
- First marriage (except widowed persons).
- Must be a legally registered marriage under the Hindu/Special Marriage Act.
- Joint bank account is required.
Benefit:
- ₹2.5 lakh incentive.
- Credited to a joint account.
- Use: Home setup, education, or business startup.
State-Wise Intercaste Marriage Schemes
Karnataka:
- ₹2.5 – ₹3 lakh
- Apply via Seva Sindhu Portal.
Tamil Nadu:
- ₹1.5 lakh (₹50K cash + ₹1 lakh NSC).
- Plus 8-gram gold coin for thali.
Maharashtra:
- ₹2.5 lakh
- Priority in housing schemes and jobs.
Uttar Pradesh:
- ₹50,000 – ₹2.5 lakh
- Special preference for rural youth.
Bihar:
- ₹1 – ₹2.5 lakh
- SC/ST Welfare Department handles applications.
Application Process
Required Documents:
- Aadhaar cards
- SC caste certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Joint bank account
- Income proof
- Passport-size photos
How to Apply:
- Online: State government portals.
- Offline: District Social Welfare Office.
- Verification by field officers.
- Approval & fund disbursal after scrutiny.
Benefits to Couples
- Financial security and stability post-marriage.
- Encouragement to break social and caste barriers.
- Legal protection in cases of family threats.
- Job preference, housing schemes, and educational support in some states.
Challenges Faced
- Low awareness among eligible couples.
- Bureaucratic delays in fund processing.
- Threats like honor killings, family violence.
- Complicated documentation process in rural areas.
Impact Stories
- Reshma & Mahesh (Karnataka): Used ₹3 lakh to start tailoring business.
- Priya & Rakesh (Tamil Nadu): Used NSC & gold thali for new life.
- Ravi & Kavita (Maharashtra): Bought house under PMAY with scheme aid.
Support System
- NGOs like Love Commandos offer rescue & shelter.
- Free legal aid, court protection for couples facing family threats.
- Helplines, women’s commissions also support such couples.
Statistics
| Year | Couples Benefited | Funds Disbursed |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 4,300 | ₹107.5 crore |
| 2022 | 5,100 | ₹127.5 crore |
| 2023 | 6,000 | ₹150 crore |
| 2024 | 6,800 | ₹170 crore |
Future Developments
- Full digitization of applications.
- Extended support for OBC–SC and ST–SC marriages.
- Better awareness campaigns in rural areas.
- Enhanced integration with housing, education, and job schemes.
Important Portals
| State | Portal |
|---|---|
| Karnataka | sevasindhu.karnataka.gov.in |
| Tamil Nadu | tn.gov.in |
| Maharashtra | mahaonline.gov.in |
| Bihar | state.bihar.gov.in |
| Central Govt | socialjustice.gov.in |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who is eligible?
✔️ One spouse must belong to the SC category.
Q2. What is the age limit?
✔️ 18 years for women, 21 for men.
Q3. Is the scheme valid for second marriages?
✔️ No, unless the first spouse is deceased.
Q4. Is there a deadline to apply?
✔️ Must apply within 1 year of marriage.
Q5. Can NRIs apply?
❌ No. Both spouses must be Indian citizens.
Final Thoughts
The Intercaste Marriage Scheme is not just about money — it’s a powerful step toward social reform. With proper implementation, awareness, and continued support, this initiative can reduce caste-based inequalities and build a more harmonious, inclusive society.
