The Inter Caste Marriage Scheme in Lakshadweep is a progressive initiative aimed at promoting social harmony and inclusivity within the union territory. Under this program, eligible couples who choose to marry across caste lines are entitled to receive a substantial incentive of Rs. 2.50 lakh, or the amount prescribed by state norms. This financial support is a significant step towards removing barriers to inter-caste marriages, fostering love and unity among diverse communities. Of this total incentive, Rs. 1.50 lakh is directly disbursed to the joint account of the newlyweds upon submission of a pre-stamped receipt, demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting the couples right from the start of their marital journey. The remaining amount is securely invested in a fixed deposit for a period of three years, ensuring financial stability for the couple’s future.It’s important to note that this incentive is applicable only for the first marriage, and stringent measures are in place to deter any fraudulent claims. The scheme emphasises the importance of authenticity, completeness, and accuracy in the application process, thereby encouraging genuine beneficiaries to come forward and avail themselves of this valuable opportunity. By implementing this initiative, Lakshadweep takes a significant stride towards building an inclusive and harmonious society.
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How to apply for Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Lakshadweep
- Approach the local Social Welfare Department office in your area.
- Inquire at the local panchayat office for applying for the incentive.
- Visit the respective office and consult with the designated authority to understand the application procedure.
- Collect the application form from the provided link on page 4 or write the required information on a plain A4 sheet.
- Complete the application form and attach the necessary documents as listed in the “Required Documents” section.
- Submit the application and documents to the designated authority.
- Authorities will review the application and documents for eligibility; if eligible, the application will be accepted.
- Receive a record number as an acknowledgment.
- The application undergoes further processing, including a local inquiry.
- Updates on application status will be sent via SMS.
- Ground-level verification will be conducted by department authorities.
- Based on verification outcomes, the department will forward the proposal with recommendations to the sanctioning body.
- The sanctioning body evaluates the case for approval or rejection.
- Receive notification of approval or rejection via SMS or as per applicable norms.
- If approved, the incentive is credited in instalments to the couple’s joint account per government norms.
- Usually, there are no fees for this procedure.
- Completion of the process aligns with department work schedules and budget allotment.
Eligibility Criteria for Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Lakshadweep
- Both individuals in the couple must hold Indian citizenship.
- The applicant should be a permanent resident of the respective state.
- The marriage is considered an inter-caste marriage if one spouse belongs to a scheduled caste and the other to a non-scheduled caste.
- The marriage must be legally valid and registered under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
- Couples with a valid marriage registration certificate are eligible to apply.
- To qualify for this scheme, the combined income of the couple should not exceed Rs. 5.0 lakhs or the amount determined by the respective government.
- Incentives will be provided to those who apply within one year (or 18 months in certain states) of their marriage, following the timeline set by the respective state.
Required Documents for Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Lakshadweep
1.Address proof of the couple (PAN Card /Driving Licence / Bank Passbook / Electricity Bill / Telephone Bill)
2.Identity proof of the couple (Voter ID / Passport / Aadhaar card / Driving licence)
Inter caste marriage certificate
3.Marriage certificate from gazetted officer to ensure it is first marriage
4.Certificates of age from the authorised officers as advised by the authorities
5.Certificate of educational qualification from the authorised officers as advised by the authorities
6.Caste certificate of the couple
7.Income certificate
8.Marriage photo
9.Marriage registration certificate
10.Ration card
11.PAN card of the couple
12.Voter ID
13.Domicile or residence certificate
14.An affidavit of the couple being legally married and in matrimonial alliance.
15.Bank account pass book
16.Passport size photograph
17.Combined photo of husband and wife
18.Aadhaar card
Contact Details for Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Lakshadweep
1 Director,
Social Welfare and Tribal Affairs,
Science and Technology Building,
Room No.4, U.T. of Lakshadweep,
Kavaratti.
Phone: 04896-262547
Email: tkassimbdo@gmail.com
2.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.What is the Inter Caste Marriage Scheme in Lakshadweep?
The Inter Caste Marriage Scheme is a government initiative aimed at promoting inter-caste marriages by providing financial incentives to eligible couples who choose to marry across caste lines in Lakshadweep.
- Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
Any couple where one partner belongs to a Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) and the other partner belongs to a non-SC/ST community is eligible to apply.
- What is the incentive amount provided under this scheme?
Eligible couples are entitled to receive an incentive of Rs. 2.50 lakh (or the amount specified by state norms). Rs. 1.50 lakh is directly disbursed to their joint account upon submission of necessary documentation.
- How is the remaining amount utilised?
The remaining amount is securely invested in a fixed deposit for a period of three years, ensuring financial stability for the couple’s future.
- Can a couple apply for this incentive for subsequent marriages?
No, this incentive is applicable for the first marriage only.
- What are the consequences of wrongful identification or submission of fake documents?
Wrongful identification or submission of fake documents will result in severe disciplinary action against the concerned individuals.
- How can I avoid my application being rejected?
Ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and free from spelling mistakes while filling out the form. Follow all the guidelines provided by the scheme.
- Is there any penalty for providing false information during the application process?
Yes, applicants may face penalties for providing false information while applying for this scheme.
- Where can I obtain more information and apply for the Inter Caste Marriage Scheme in Lakshadweep?
You can contact the relevant government authorities or visit their official website for detailed information and application procedures.
- How does this scheme contribute to society?
This scheme aims to promote social harmony, inclusivity, and equal opportunities by encouraging inter-caste marriages and breaking down caste-based prejudices and discrimination in Lakshadweep.
