Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Kerala 2023: Eligibility & Benefits

The Inter-caste Marriage Scheme, introduced by the Government of Kerala’s Social Justice Department, aims to foster equality within the state. It offers financial aid of ₹30,000 to inter caste couples, excluding those belonging to the scheduled caste or scheduled tribe. To access these benefits, individuals must provide their marriage certificate. This article will outline the process for qualifying for assistance through the inter caste marriage scheme.

What is Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme? 

The Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme, also known as the Dr. MGR Memorial Scheme, is a progressive initiative launched by the Kerala government to promote social harmony and dismantle caste barriers in the state. This scheme aims to provide financial assistance and support to couples who choose to marry outside their caste. The main objective of the scheme is to encourage inter-caste marriages and discourage discrimination based on caste. Under this scheme, eligible couples who are residents of Kerala and belong to different castes can apply for financial assistance of up to Rs. 30,000, along with other benefits such as housing and educational subsidies. The scheme also provides counseling and guidance to couples, along with legal aid if needed. By incentivizing inter-caste marriages, the Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme aims to foster inclusivity, equality, and social integration, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious and equitable society.

Why is the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme Important?

The Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme holds immense importance in a society that is still grappling with deep-rooted caste-based discrimination. This scheme aims to promote social harmony by providing financial assistance and incentives to couples who choose to marry outside their caste or religion. By encouraging inter-caste marriages, this scheme challenges the age-old notions of caste hierarchies and promotes the idea of equality and inclusivity. It helps in breaking down barriers that have long divided communities, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among different castes and religions. Moreover, this scheme also helps in eliminating prejudice and stereotypes associated with inter-caste marriages by showcasing successful examples that can inspire others to follow suit. It creates an environment where love and mutual respect become the foundation for partnerships, rather than societal prejudices. Overall, the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme plays a crucial role in building a more inclusive and harmonious society, where individuals are free to choose their life partners without fear of discrimination or social ostracization.

Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme: An Overview

Name	Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme
State	Kerala
Department	Social Justice and Empowerment Department
Benefits	Rs. 30,000
Beneficiary	Interracial Couple
Objective	Encouraging inter-caste marriages and removing the wrong mentality spread in the society
Mode to apply	Online/Offline
Official website	http://sjd.kerala.gov.in/award_details.php?awid=MzNzVjh1cVIjdnk=

Benefits & Features of Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme

• In Kerala, eligible intercaste married couples are granted a single lump sum of Rs. 30,000 as financial aid by the Government. In order to receive this amount, couples must sign an agreement and submit it to the Local Self Government Institution (LSGI).
• In Kerala, the implementation of this program aims to empower the disadvantaged classes, ensuring that individuals from backward classes who are poor and in need will no longer need to worry about arranging funds for their weddings.
• To address the financial aspect of marriages, the Kerala government has taken the decision to offer monetary support to couples belonging to the SC caste, even in cases of inter-caste marriages.
• The organization of these weddings will be coordinated by NGOs and other designated institutions, working closely with the state government. Officials from the respective department will oversee the process.
• The program is fully funded by the Kerala government, which takes care of both administrative tasks and provides the necessary funds for its execution.

Eligibility Criteria for Kerala inter-Caste Marriage Scheme. 

• The total combined family income of the couple should not exceed Rs. 50,000/-
• Financial assistance is exclusively available to legally married couples.
• Couples should be aware that financial assistance is only provided once.
• The financial assistance is intended to be utilized for purposes such as starting a business, purchasing land, or constructing a house.
• It is the responsibility of the LSGIs to ensure that the funds are being utilized for the specified purposes.
• Upon receiving the financial assistance, couples are required to sign an agreement and submit it to the LSGIs.
• Couples must apply for financial assistance within one to two years from the date of marriage, with a minimum of one year after marriage.
• Any delay in requesting financial assistance beyond three years of marriage will not be considered as per the Government’s letter No.-1151/C1/2012/SWD dated 21-06-2012.

Required Documents for Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme

• The concerned Village Officer is required to provide an Income Certificate (Original).
• For verification purposes, it is necessary to present a certificate proving that the Intercaste marriage has been registered. This certificate can be obtained from the Sub Registrar’s office or certified by the Panchayath President. Certificates issued by organizations such as NSS or SNDP are also acceptable.
• The caste certificate of both individuals in the couple should be obtained from the concerned Village Officer.
• To validate the longevity of the marriage, an original certificate is needed, which can be provided by a Gazetted Officer, MLA, or MP, stating that the couple has been together for the past one year.
• A copy of the couple’s Ration card must be included.
• In order to establish identity, copies of Election ID Card or Aadhar card are necessary.

How to Apply for Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme 

• The first step entails opening a page similar to the one described.
• Next, proceed to the New User Single Sign On (SSO) portal and select the Register option.
• This will lead you to a new page where you can choose to log in using Jan Aadhar, Bhamasha, Facebook, or Google.
• Upon successful login, click on the Utility option.
• Subsequently, select Advanced Search and choose Utility, Social Justice & Empowerment Department. 
• Proceed to the following page and click on the Application Form button.
• The application form will then appear, requiring you to enter all the necessary information accurately.
• Do not forget to upload the necessary documents such as the marriage certificate, affidavit of husband and wife, district certificate, and the husbands’ and wives’ 10th certificates.
• Finally, after providing all the required details, submit the form by clicking on the appropriate option.
• By following these steps, you will successfully complete the online application process for the Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Kerala. 

Links to Apply for Information Related Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage 

• http://sjd.kerala.gov.in/award_details.php?awid=MzNzVjh1cVIjdnk=
• https://www.myscheme.gov.in/schemes/faimcescstc
• https://scdd.kerala.gov.in/index.php/schemes/social-development-scheme

FAQs Kerala inter-Caste Marriage Scheme 

1.What are Financial Assistance for Intercaste Marriage in Kerala Government Employees? 

In Kerala, government employees who have entered into inter-caste marriages are eligible for a one-time financial assistance of Rs. 30,000. To receive this amount, the couples must sign an agreement and submit it to the Local Self Government Institution (LSGI).

2.What is the rate of inter-caste marriages in Kerala?

Research indicates that the western region of Kerala has the highest rate of inter-caste marriages, accounting for 17 percent. Additionally, some states have shown even higher rates, with Punjab at 22.36 percent, Meghalaya at 25.00 percent, Goa at 26.67 percent, and Kerala at 21.35 percent.

3.Is inter-caste marriage allowed in Kerala?

The Government of Kerala supports inter-caste married couples through the Kerala inter-caste marriage scheme, providing them with financial assistance. To access this benefit, couples belonging to different castes must submit a certificate of inter-caste marriage.