In 2025, the Indian government, along with various state administrations, continues to implement and enhance marriage assistance schemes aimed at alleviating the financial burden of marriage for economically disadvantaged families. These initiatives focus on promoting social equity, supporting inter-caste and interfaith unions, and empowering women. Below is an overview of some prominent marriage assistance schemes across India:
1. State Marriage Assistance Scheme (SMAS) – Jammu & Kashmir
The SMAS is a social welfare initiative by the Government of Jammu & Kashmir targeting poor girls of marriageable age from families holding Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) or Priority Household (PHH) ration cards. Eligible beneficiaries receive a one-time financial assistance of ₹50,000, directly transferred to their bank accounts before marriage.
2. Marriage Grant Scheme – For Other Backward Classes (OBC)
This scheme provides financial assistance of ₹20,000 for the marriage of daughters from economically weaker OBC families. Applicants must meet specific income criteria and provide necessary documentation, including caste and income certificates.
3. Marriage Assistance Schemes – Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu offers several marriage assistance schemes catering to different sections of society:
- Moovalur Ramamirtham Ammaiyar Scheme: Provides financial assistance of ₹25,000 and an 8-gram gold coin to women with a degree or diploma.
- E.V.R. Maniammaiyar Ninaivu Scheme: Offers ₹25,000 and an 8-gram gold coin to daughters of poor widows.
- Annai Theresa Ninaivu Scheme: Grants ₹25,000 and an 8-gram gold coin to orphan girls.
- Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy Ninaivu Inter-Caste Marriage Assistance Scheme: Provides ₹25,000 and an 8-gram gold coin to couples in inter-caste marriages.
4. Bidaai (Shaadi Scheme) – Karnataka
The Bidaai scheme extends financial support to poor minority women, including divorcees and widows, belonging to Muslim, Christian, Jain, Buddhist, and Parsi communities. It aims to assist these women in meeting marriage-related expenses.
5. Incentive for Inter-Caste Marriage – Karnataka
This scheme encourages inter-caste marriages involving at least one partner from a Scheduled Tribe (ST). Eligible couples receive a total incentive of ₹5,50,000, with ₹3,00,000 for the bride and ₹2,50,000 for the groom. The couple’s combined annual income must be under ₹5,00,000, and applications should be submitted within 18 months of marriage.
6. Grant for Marriage of Poor Daughters of Minority Communities – Uttar Pradesh
Administered by the Minority Welfare Department, this scheme offers ₹20,000 to families from minority communities (e.g., Muslims, Christians, Sikhs) for the marriage of their daughters. Applicants must meet income criteria specific to rural and urban areas.
7. Financial Assistance for Marriage of Daughters of Ex-Servicemen (ESM)
The Directorate of Ex-Servicemen Welfare provides ₹50,000 per daughter (up to two daughters) as marriage assistance to families of ex-servicemen. This support is aimed at easing the financial burden on these families.
8. Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme – Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme offers a joint grant of ₹50,000 to couples entering into inter-caste marriages, with ₹25,000 contributed each by the central and state governments. This initiative promotes social integration and reduces caste-based discrimination.
Conclusion
These marriage assistance schemes reflect the government’s commitment to promoting social welfare and equality. By providing financial support, they aim to reduce the economic burden of marriage on disadvantaged families, encourage inter-caste and interfaith unions, and empower women across the country. Eligible individuals are encouraged to avail themselves of these schemes to ensure a more inclusive and equitable society.
