Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Chandigarh

The Inter Caste Marriage Scheme in Chandigarh represents a progressive step towards fostering social harmony and inclusivity within the state. Recognizing the importance of inter-caste marriages as a means to bridge societal divides, the Chandigarh government has introduced a visionary initiative that provides a significant incentive of 2.5 lakh rupees to couples who choose to marry across caste lines. This pioneering scheme not only promotes love and unity between individuals from different backgrounds but also aims to address age-old prejudices and stereotypes. In this introduction, we will delve deeper into the significance and impact of the Inter Caste Marriage Scheme in Chandigarh, highlighting how it empowers couples and promotes a more equitable and tolerant society.

What is Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Chandigarh? 

The “Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme” in Chandigarh is a government initiative aimed at promoting marriages between individuals from different castes and communities to foster social harmony and reduce caste-based discrimination. Under this scheme, eligible couples can receive financial incentives to support their inter-caste marriages.

The scheme typically offers an incentive amount of 2.5 lakh rupees to the marrying couple. This financial support is intended to help them start their new life together and overcome any potential social or financial challenges they may face due to their inter-caste marriage.

Overview of Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Chandigarh

Name	Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Chandigarh
State	Chandigarh
Incentive	2.5 Lakh
Beneficiaries	Couple who does inter caste marriage
Official website	http://chdsw.gov.in/index.php/scheme/inter-caste-marriage

Benefits of Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Chandigarh

The Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme in Chandigarh offers several benefits to encourage and support inter-caste marriages, promoting social harmony and reducing caste-based discrimination. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Financial Incentives: Eligible couples can receive a significant financial incentive, often around 2.5 lakhs rupees, to assist them in starting their married life. This amount can be instrumental in covering initial expenses and financial challenges.
2. Social Integration: The scheme promotes inter-caste marriages, which contribute to social integration by breaking down caste barriers. It encourages individuals from different backgrounds to come together in marriage, fostering a more inclusive society.
3. Reduced Discrimination:Inter-caste marriages often face social stigma and discrimination. The incentives provided by this scheme help couples overcome societal challenges, providing them with a stronger foundation for their marriage.
4. Legal Recognition:To be eligible for the scheme, the marriage must be legally registered under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. This legal recognition ensures that the marriage is officially acknowledged and protected by the law.
5. Financial Support: The financial support offered can assist the couple in various aspects, such as setting up a household, pursuing further education, or investing in their future together.
6. Empowerment: The scheme empowers individuals to make marriage choices based on love and compatibility rather than societal pressures or caste considerations.

Eligibility Criteria for Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Chandigarh

Eligibility Criteria:

– The couple must be Indian citizens.

– The applicant should be a permanent resident of the respective state.

– The marriage should be an inter-caste marriage, where one spouse belongs to a scheduled caste and the other to a non-scheduled caste.

– The marriage must be valid under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, and duly registered with a marriage registration certificate.

Income Criteria:

– To apply for the scheme, the total income of the couple should be less than Rs. 5.0 lakhs or the amount set by the respective government.

Application Timing:

– Incentives will only be provided to couples who apply within a year (or 18 months in some states) of their marriage, as per the timeline specified by the respective state government.

Required Documents for Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Chandigarh

Address Proof:

– PAN Card

– Driving Licence

– Bank Passbook

– Electricity Bill

– Telephone Bill

Identity Proof:

– Voter ID

– Passport

– Aadhaar Card

– Driving Licence

Marriage-related Documents:

– Inter-caste marriage certificate

– Marriage certificate from a gazetted officer to verify it’s the first marriage

– Certificates of age from authorized officers

– Certificate of educational qualification from authorized officers

– Caste certificate of the couple

– Income certificate

– Marriage photo

– Marriage registration certificate

– Ration card

Financial Documentation:

– PAN Card of the couple

– Voter ID

– Domicile or residence certificate

– Bank account passbook

– Passport size photographs

– Combined photo of husband and wife

– Aadhaar card

Legal Affidavit:

– An affidavit stating the couple is legally married and in a matrimonial alliance.

Application Process for Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Chandigarh

Procedure for Applying for Inter-Caste Marriage Incentives in Chandigarh:

1. Bank Account Preparation:

   – Deserving couples are advised to open a joint bank account or convert an existing account into a joint one.

   – Ensure that the bank account is linked with the Aadhaar card.

1. Application Submission:

   – Visit the respective Social Welfare Department office in your area.

   – Enquire at the local panchayat office for application details (use provided hyperlinks for contact information).

   – Consult with the designated authority to understand the application process.

   – Collect the application form or write the necessary information on an A4 sheet as advised.

   – Complete the application form.

1. Document Submission:

   – Attach all required documents as specified in the “Required Documents” section.

   – Submit the application and documents to the designated authority.

1. Application Review:

   – Authorities will review the application and documents to determine eligibility.

   – If eligible and all documents are in order, the application will be accepted.

   – An acknowledgment with a record number will be provided to the applicant for future reference.

1. Processing:

   – The application will be processed further based on the information provided.

1. Verification and Recommendation:

   – Ground level verification and local inquiries will be conducted by department authorities.

   – Based on the verification results, a proposal with recommendations from relevant authorities will be forwarded to the sanctioning body.

1. Sanctioning:

   – The sanctioning body will evaluate the case and decide whether to approve or reject the incentive.

1. Notification:

   – The applicant will receive SMS updates regarding the application status.

   – Approval or rejection will be communicated to the applicant through SMS or as per applicable norms.

1. Incentive Disbursement:

   – If approved, the incentive will be credited to the joint bank account of the couple in instalments according to government norms.

1. No Fees:

   – Typically, there is no fee charged for this procedure.

1. Timeline:

   – The entire process will be completed based on the department’s work schedule and budget allocation.

Please note that this procedure may vary, so it’s advisable to verify specific details with the local authorities in Chandigarh.

Contact Details for Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Chandigarh

Department of Social Welfare

Women & Child Development, Additional Town Hall Building,

3rd Floor, Sector-17 C, Chandigarh – 160017

Phone: 0172-2700372

Email: dirswd-chd@nic.in

 

Department of Social Justice and Empowerment

Under Secretary,

Room No. 253, A-Wing,

Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi – 110 001.

Phone: 23389368

Email: pk.singh72@nic.in

Frequently asked Questions

1. Who is eligible for the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme in Chandigarh?

   – Eligibility criteria may vary, but typically, couples where one spouse belongs to a Scheduled Caste and the other to a Non-Scheduled Caste are eligible. Both individuals should be Indian citizens, and their marriage must be legally registered under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.

1. What are the incentives offered under this scheme?

   – Incentives can include financial support, often a specified amount of money, provided to eligible couples upon application and approval. The exact amount and nature of incentives may vary.

1. How can I apply for the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme in Chandigarh?

   – Applicants can typically apply by visiting the relevant government office, such as the Social Welfare Department. They need to complete an application form, provide necessary documents, and follow the prescribed procedure.

1. What documents are required for the application?

   – Required documents may include proof of identity and residence, marriage certificate, income certificate, caste certificate, and other relevant documents. It’s essential to check the specific document requirements with the local authorities.

1. Is there a time limit for applying for the scheme after marriage?

   – Yes, in most cases, there is a specific time limit within which couples must apply for the scheme after their marriage. It’s crucial to inquire about the timeline as per the rules set by the Chandigarh government.