How To Apply For Money After Inter-Cast Love Marriage?

If couple partners have decided to tie the knot across caste lines, especially where one is from a Scheduled Caste (SC),and the other one is from general caste or the government supports intercaste marriage, step towards social equality and fundamental right of individual right to marry according to their free will and consent. You could be eligible for a financial incentive of up to ₹2.5 lakh under a central scheme.

What Is the ₹2.5 Lakh Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme?

It is a centrally supported scheme run by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment of India. It provides a one-time incentive of ₹2.5 lakh to couples where – 

• One partner is from an SC community
• The other is from a non-SC background

Previously, only couples earning under ₹5 lakh annually were eligible. Now, there is no income cap, encouraging more inter-caste unions.

Eligibility Criteria

You can apply if:

• One partner belongs to a Scheduled Caste (SC)
• The other partner is from any non-SC category (OBC/General)
• Marriage is registered under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955
• It is the first marriage for both
• Application is made within 1 year of marriage
• You have an Aadhaar-linked joint bank account
• All submitted documents are valid and verified

False applications may invite legal action.

What Financial Support Do You Get?

• ₹1.5 lakh is directly transferred to the couple’s joint bank account
• ₹1 lakh is kept in a fixed deposit for 3 years to prevent misuse

This support helps couples begin their new life together, especially when family or community support is missing.

State-Wise Implementation Example: Rajasthan

Rajasthan’s Dr. Savita Ben Ambedkar Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme was launched in 2006. The benefit amount has increased from ₹50,000 to ₹2 lakh.

Distribution:

• Half paid upfront
• Half kept in a fixed deposit for 8 years

It helps to ensure that only genuine couples get benefit from the scheme, it is not for every couple and this scheme of the government is to promote intercaste marriage. States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan  also have similar programs.

Required Documents Checklist

• Marriage Certificate (under Hindu Marriage Act)
• Caste Certificates of both partners
• Aadhaar cards
• Joint bank account details (passbook copy)
• Passport-sized photos
• Completed application form (state-specific)

Visit your state’s Social Welfare website for the latest requirements.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Visit your state’s SC/ST Welfare Department website
2. Locate the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme section
3. Register or log in using Aadhaar
4. Fill out the online application
5. Upload all required documents
6. Submit online or visit your local welfare office for offline submission

Note: Offline-only states require form submission at the District Social Welfare Office.

Important Conditions to Remember

• Only first marriages qualify
• You must apply within 12 months of your wedding date
• Live-in relationships or unregistered ceremonies are not eligible
• Submitting incorrect or fake details can lead to rejection and legal penalties
• Some states release the full amount only after several years of verification

Why This Scheme Matters

This isn’t just about financial assistance. It’s a powerful symbol of social change. Inter-caste couples often face resistance or lack of support. This scheme acknowledges your courage and supports your journey.

But yes, it does come with conditions and paperwork — which is why legal guidance helps.

Need Legal Assistance?

At Lead India, our team of lawyers can help you:

• Ensure your marriage is properly registered
• Verify your eligibility under the scheme
• Assist with accurate application filing
• Represent you in case of delays or appeals

Let us take care of the legal side, so you can focus on your new beginning.

One can talk to lawyer from Lead India for any kind of legal support. In India, free legal advice online can be obtained at Lead India. Along with receiving free legal advice online, one can also ask questions to the experts online free through Lead India.

FAQs

1. Does court marriage qualify?

Yes. As long as your marriage is legally registered under the Hindu Marriage Act, you’re eligible.

2. One partner is OBC, not General. Can we apply?

Yes, OBC is considered a non-SC category for this scheme.

3. We married over a year ago. Can we still apply?

Usually no. Most states require application within 12 months. Some allow slight flexibility.

4. Are live-in couples or religious-only marriages eligible?

No. Legal registration is mandatory.

5. Will this affect my SC reservation benefits?

No. Marrying outside your caste does not change your personal reservation status.