How To Get ₹2.5 Lakh For Inter-Caste Marriage—Here’s What I Found

The government provides ₹2.5 lakh as financial assistance in India for inter-caste marriages which aims to create and promote social integrity and equality. This scheme is made for inter caste couples which provides financial support to them and reduces caste-based discrimination. In this blog we will discuss the eligibility criteria,  application process, and how to access this financial aid to support your inter-caste marriage.

What Is the ₹2.5 Lakh Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme?

This scheme is initiated by the central government which has been implemented in various states to encourage and appreciate the couple who has married irrespective of their caste, especially when one partner belongs to Schedule Caste (SC).

In this scheme, the couple is provided a sum of Rs. 2.5 lakh as financial support to commence their married life and meet their basic needs. The main aim of this scheme is to decrease caste discrimination and promote equality all over India. It also helps those couples who face financial pressure. 

Who Is Eligible? I Was Surprised It’s This Specific

Here’s what I found when reviewing state government portals and the scheme guidelines:

• The marriage must be registered under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955
• One spouse must belong to a Scheduled Caste (as per Article 341 of the Constitution)
• Both partners should be Hindu (some states allow variations for secular marriages)
• Both must be Indian citizens
• The couple must be in their first legal marriage
• In most states, the application should be submitted within 1 year of marriage

If you’re outside these criteria, some state-specific exceptions or other schemes may apply—but this is the standard baseline.

What Documents Do You Actually Need?

Here’s the list I put together after comparing forms from Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh:

• Marriage Certificate (scanned copy, legally registered)
• Caste Certificates (clearly showing one partner is SC)
• Aadhaar cards of both spouses
• Birth certificates / age proof
• Joint photo of the couple
• Declaration forms (usually Annexure II and IV; varies by state)
• Joint bank account passbook (from a nationalized or government bank)
• Proof of residence (utility bill, ration card, etc.)

Tip: Keep everything scanned and saved before starting the online form—most portals won’t let you move ahead if one document is missing.

How to Apply: What I Did and What You Should Know?

Each state handles its own application portal. I went through three major ones and noticed the flow is usually the same:

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Go to your state’s official welfare or SC/ST department website
2. Find the link for “Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme” or “Dr. Ambedkar Yojana”
3. Click “Register” or “Apply Online”
4. Fill in personal details, Aadhar number, district, etc.
5. Upload all your documents (marriage cert, caste proof, passbook, etc.)
6. Submit and take a screenshot or note the application ID
7. Track the application or visit your District Welfare Office if needed

Some states also allow offline applications via block-level offices, but I found the online process more efficient.

Why This Scheme Is More Than Just Money?

Here’s what stood out to me while reading the policy rationale:

• It helps break caste-based barriers in a real, tangible way
• Reduces social pressure and stigma around inter-caste unions
• Encourages young couples to choose freely and get financial support
• Reinforces values of the Constitution—equality, liberty, and non-discrimination
• Helps couples start independent lives when family support isn’t available

I think of it as both symbolic and practical support—and it can make a big difference.

Can You Get Other Help Besides This ₹2.5 Lakh?

Yes and I was surprised by how many other resources exist if you know where to look:

• NGOs and legal aid centers that help with inter-caste and love marriages
• Educational grants or job schemes for SC spouses
• Some employers or universities provide marriage assistance or relocation aid
• Crowdfunding platforms for couples facing social backlash
• Lawyers who offer pro bono support for registration, safety, or objection handling

If you’re worried about legal, social, or financial obstacles, there are people and platforms that can help.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve This Support—Claim It with Confidence

If you’re entering an inter-caste marriage, you’re not just following your heart—you’re standing up for equality and change. And the government’s ₹2.5 lakh scheme is there to support that.

Yes, there’s paperwork. Yes, it takes effort. But with the right documents, correct steps, and a bit of patience, you can absolutely claim what you’re entitled to.

And if you’re unsure where to start or stuck with any step, you can always talk to a legal advisor or state welfare officer—or get free help through Lead India.

One can talk to lawyers from Lead India for any kind of legal support. In India, free legal advice online can be obtained at Lead India. Along with receiving free legal advice online, one can also ask questions to the experts online free through Lead India.

FAQs

1. Who is eligible for this scheme?

Couples where one spouse is from the SC category, both are Hindus (or as per state rules), the marriage is registered under the Hindu Marriage Act, and it’s their first legal marriage.

2. What documents do I need to apply?

Marriage certificate, SC caste certificate, Aadhaar cards, age proof, joint photo, bank passbook, and proof of residence.

3. How do I apply for the scheme?

Apply online through your state’s SC/ST welfare website, fill out the form, upload documents, and submit. You’ll get an application ID to track the status.

4. Can I apply if I got married more than a year ago?

Usually, applications must be submitted within one year of marriage, but some states may have exceptions. Check with your local welfare office for details.