Dr Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme 2024: Objective, Features, Eligibility, and Application Process

In a significant move towards promoting social integration and combating caste-based inequalities in India, the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation, under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, introduced the Dr Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme in 2013. This progressive scheme aims to incentivize inter-caste marriages, particularly involving Dalit partners, to help break down the barriers of the caste system deeply ingrained in society. Here is a comprehensive look at the scheme’s objectives, benefits, eligibility criteria, required documentation, and application process for the year 2024.

Also Read: Tamil Nadu Unorganised Workers Welfare Board (TNUWWB): Features, Eligibility, Required Documents

Dr Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme 2024

The scheme, officially launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, provides financial assistance to couples entering into inter-caste marriages. Recognizing the challenges that these couples often face, the scheme seeks to offer support and acknowledgement, thus fostering an environment of equality and unity within the diverse fabric of Indian society.

Dr Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme Objective

The primary aim of the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme is to acknowledge and reward the socially brave act of marrying outside one’s caste. By providing financial support and incentives, the government hopes to encourage more such marriages, which are seen as a crucial step towards enhancing social integration and reducing caste disparities.

Also Read: Minimata Mahtari Jatan Yojana 2024: Financial Assistance, Eligibility, Application Process

Features & Benefits of Dr Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme

The scheme offers numerous benefits designed to support the newlywed couple financially and socially:

• Financial Incentive: Each eligible couple receives a one-time incentive of Rs. 2.5 lakhs to help ease their financial burden in the initial years of marriage.
• No Income Limit: Expanding the reach, the scheme now includes couples regardless of their combined annual income.
• Government Support: All operational costs and financial obligations of the scheme are funded by the central government, ensuring its sustainability and effectiveness.
• Promotion of Equality: The overarching goal is to eradicate caste-based prejudices and encourage equality among all communities.

Incentive Amount

The scheme provides a substantial incentive of Rs. 2.5 lakh per couple. This amount is distributed in two installments: 50% as a Demand Draft in the joint name of the couple at the time of marriage, and the remaining 50% after five years, ensuring ongoing support.

Eligibility Criteria for Dr Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme

To qualify for this scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Caste Requirement: One partner should be from the Scheduled Caste and the other from a non-Scheduled Caste.
• Marital Status: The incentive is available only for first marriages.
• Income Criteria: Initially, the couple’s combined annual income should not exceed Rs. 5 lakh, although this is under review for expansion.
• Marriage Registration: The marriage must be legally registered under the Hindu Marriage Act or equivalent.

Required Documents for Dr Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme

Applicants need to provide several documents to process their application:

• Caste Certificates for both spouses.
• Legally Registered Marriage Certificate.
• Income Certificates for both spouses, proving the income limit.
• Declaration stating it is the first marriage for both partners.

Dr Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme Application Process

The application process is straightforward:

• Submission: Complete applications must be submitted within one year of marriage, endorsed by a sitting member of the parliament or legislative assembly.
• Review and Approval: Applications are reviewed by the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation and the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment before approval.
• Funding Transfer: Approved funds are transferred via Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) directly to the couple.

Contact Details

For further inquiries or assistance, interested parties can contact:

• Director, Dr Ambedkar Foundation
• Room No. 637, A-Wing, Shastri Bhawan,
• New Delhi – 110001

The Dr. Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme represents a crucial step forward in the fight against caste discrimination, providing both financial aid and a social statement supporting the cause of equality and integration in Indian society