Every Eligible Couple Receives ₹50,000 Assistance; ₹30,000 Credited Directly to Aadhaar-Seeded Bank Account and ₹20,000 Provided through National Savings Certificate
CM S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Government Advancing Social Justice by Encouraging Inter-Caste Marriages and Eliminating Caste-Based Discrimination
Initiative under the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 Reinforces Equality, Fraternity and Constitutional Values
Chandigarh, October 26:
Reaffirming its commitment to building an inclusive, progressive and caste-discrimination-free society, the Punjab Government has extended financial assistance of over ₹4.06 crore to 1,353 inter-caste married couples during the current financial year. The initiative reflects the State Government’s steadfast resolve to promote social equality, mutual respect and harmony while encouraging marriages that transcend caste barriers.
Sharing this information, Punjab Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the scheme, implemented under the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, aims to encourage inter-caste marriages, strengthen social integration and uphold the constitutional ideals of equality, fraternity and social justice.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said that every eligible inter-caste married couple is provided financial assistance of ₹50,000, of which ₹30,000 is directly credited into the beneficiary’s Aadhaar-seeded bank account, while the remaining ₹20,000 is provided through a National Savings Certificate (NSC) issued through the Post Office, ensuring both immediate financial support and long-term financial security.
The Cabinet Minister informed that to avail the benefit under the scheme, one spouse must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community and the other to the non-Scheduled Caste (Non-SC) community. Besides, the groom must be at least 21 years of age and the bride 18 years or above. Eligible couples can apply for the financial assistance within three years from the date of marriage.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government is committed to creating a society where every citizen enjoys equal dignity, equal opportunities and equal rights, irrespective of caste or social background. She said the Government firmly believes that social justice and inclusive development are essential for building a stronger and more harmonious Punjab.
Describing inter-caste marriages as powerful instruments of social transformation, the Minister said such unions rise above traditional barriers and send a strong message of equality, mutual respect and national integration. She added that the financial assistance is not merely an economic incentive but also an affirmation of the Government’s commitment to encouraging progressive social values and strengthening social cohesion.
Dr. Baljit Kaur urged all eligible inter-caste married couples to avail themselves of the scheme within the prescribed time. She said the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities is committed to ensuring that every eligible beneficiary receives assistance in a transparent, timely and hassle-free manner. Reiterating the Punjab Government’s unwavering commitment to inclusive welfare, she said the State will continue to implement people-centric initiatives aimed at ensuring that the constitutional ideals of equality, dignity and social justice become a lived reality for every citizen.
