Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Jammu and Kashmir

The Jammu and Kashmir government’s recent announcement of a scheme offering Rs 2.5 lakh to every inter-caste marriage involving a Dalit is a significant and progressive step towards promoting social harmony and inclusivity within the region. This initiative, aimed at encouraging inter-caste marriages, particularly with a focus on the marginalised Dalit community, holds the potential to bring about positive social change by breaking down traditional caste barriers and fostering a more equitable and united society. In this evaluation, we will delve into the key aspects of this scheme, its potential impact, and the broader implications it may have on the state’s social fabric.

What is the Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Jammu and Kashmir? 

The Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme in Jammu and Kashmir is a pioneering initiative introduced by the state government with the aim of promoting social integration and reducing caste-based discrimination. Under this scheme, the government offers a significant incentive of Rs 2.5 lakh to couples who choose to marry across caste lines, specifically targeting marriages that involve a member of the Dalit community. This substantial financial incentive is intended to serve as both a recognition of the challenges often faced by inter-caste couples and a means of facilitating their union. By providing financial support, the government hopes to encourage individuals to transcend the boundaries of caste and religion in their choice of life partners, thereby fostering greater social cohesion and breaking down the deeply entrenched caste-based divisions that have persisted in Indian society for generations. The Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme in Jammu and Kashmir represents a commendable effort to promote inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunities within the state.

Overview of Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Jammu and Kashmir

Name	Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Jammu and Kashmir
State	Jammu and Kashmir
Incentive	2.5 Lakh
Beneficiaries	One who does inter caste marriage
Official Website	Social Welfare Department, J&K https://jksocialwelfare.nic.in › …PDF Dated:- z, -01-2023

Benefits of Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Jammu and Kashmir

The Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme in Jammu and Kashmir offers several benefits to the society and individuals involved:

1. The scheme promotes social harmony by encouraging marriages across caste lines, helping break down deep-seated caste prejudices and divisions.
2. It specifically benefits Dalits, providing them with financial incentives to choose their life partners freely, thus empowering them to make independent choices in their personal lives.
3. Couples receive a substantial financial incentive of Rs 2.5 lakh upon inter-caste marriage, which can assist in starting their life together or addressing various financial needs.
4. Inter-caste marriages result in families with diverse backgrounds, fostering greater cultural understanding and acceptance among different communities.
5. By encouraging inter-caste unions, the scheme contributes to reducing discrimination and promoting inclusivity, leading to a more equitable society.

Eligibility Criteria of Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Jammu and Kashmir

• Applicants must be citizens of India.
• Applicants should be a permanent resident of the respective state.
• One of the spouses must belong to the scheduled caste or meet the eligibility criteria set by the state.
• The couple must possess a valid marriage registration certificate to be eligible to apply for the scheme.

Documents Required for Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Jammu and Kashmir

• Application form
• Marriage registration certificate
• Permanent community certificate of the groom
• Permanent community certificate of the bride
• Address proof of current residing address in either the bride or groom’s name (acceptable proofs: Voter ID, Ration Card, Passport, Driving License).
• Identity proof of both the bride and groom (acceptable proofs: Voter ID, Passport, Aadhaar card, Driving licence)
• Resident/Domicile certificate as per the specific requirements
• Election/Voters ID
• Ration card of either the bride or groom, as per the applying area
• Separate marriage affidavits (notarized) in the prescribed format from both the husband and wife
• Combined photograph of the husband and wife
• Two passport-sized photographs as per the specified requirements
• Aadhaar card

Application Process of Inter Caste Marriage Scheme of Jammu and Kashmir

Certainly, here are the steps to apply for an inter-caste marriage certificate in points:

1. Visit the nearest office of the concerned deputy commissioner, tahsildar, or designated appropriate authority for your area.
2. Collect the application form or write the required information on a plain A4 sheet as advised.
3. Complete the application form and attach all the necessary documents as per the “Required Documents” section.
4. Submit the application and documents to the designated authority.
5. The authorities will review the submitted application and document set. If everything is in order, they will accept the application along with the applicable fees.
6. The authorities will record the application either manually or electronically, providing you with a record number as an acknowledgment for future reference.
7. You will be informed of the probable date for receiving the certificate.
8. The application will undergo further processing, including verification of your details and submitted documents.
9. The certificate will be issued based on the information in the application, local enquiry, facts, and records produced.
10. You will receive SMS updates on the application status on your mobile phone.
11. The status, whether approval or rejection, will be conveyed to you through an SMS.
12. If approved, the certificate will be either hand-delivered, sent by post to the address you mentioned during the application, or issued according to applicable norms.

Contact details of Inter Caste Marriage Scheme of Jammu and Kashmir

Revenue Department,

Amar Colony, Jammu,

Jammu and Kashmir 180002

Phone: 2549683

Fax – 2566805

Frequently asked questions of Inter Caste Marriage Scheme of Jammu and Kashmir

What is the eligibility criteria for the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme in Jammu and Kashmir?

To be eligible for the scheme, the applicant must be a citizen of India, a permanent resident of the respective state, and one of the spouses should belong to a scheduled caste or meet the state’s eligibility criteria. Additionally, the couple must possess a valid marriage registration certificate.

How much financial incentive does the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme offer in Jammu and Kashmir?

The scheme offers a substantial financial incentive of Rs 2.5 lakh to couples who opt for inter-caste marriages, particularly focusing on marriages involving a member of the Dalit community.

Where can applicants apply for the Inter-Caste Marriage Certificate in Jammu and Kashmir?

Applicants should approach the nearest office of the concerned deputy commissioner, tahsildar, or the designated appropriate authority for their area to apply for the certificate.

What documents are required for applying for the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme in Jammu and Kashmir?

The required documents include the application form, marriage registration certificate, permanent community certificates of both the groom and bride, address proof, identity proof, resident/domicile certificate, election/voter’s ID, ration card, marriage affidavits, photographs, and Aadhaar cards.

How is the application process for the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme in Jammu and Kashmir monitored?

Once submitted, the authorities will review the application and documents. If everything is in order, they will accept the application with applicable fees. The application is then processed, and SMS updates are sent to the applicant’s mobile regarding the status, including approval or rejection. If approved, the certificate is either hand-delivered, sent by post, or issued as per applicable norms.