Marriage is a significant milestone in one’s life, marked by love, companionship, and new beginnings. In recognition of the financial burden that weddings can bring, the Backward Class Welfare Department in Uttar Pradesh has introduced the Marriage Grant Scheme. This initiative is designed to provide support to the daughters of the Other Backward Class (OBC), excluding the minority class, who come from destitute families or those living below the poverty line. Under this scheme, eligible families receive a grant of Rs 20,000 to facilitate their daughter’s wedding, easing the financial strain that often accompanies this momentous occasion.
Grant for Daughters’ Marriages
The Marriage Grant Scheme offers a financial lifeline to families in need. Backward Class Welfare Officer Jaynath Gupta highlights that a father can apply for the grant for a maximum of two daughters. So far, the government has disbursed funds to 464 beneficiaries in the district, benefiting a total of 90 beneficiaries with an amount totaling Rs 18 lakh.
Simplified Online Process
One of the standout features of the Marriage Grant Scheme is its complete online application process. To apply for the grant, the daughter’s Aadhaar number is a prerequisite. During the registration, it is mandatory to link a mobile number to the Aadhaar. This ensures that the applicant receives an OTP (One-Time Password) for verification during the application process. Applicants can complete their application by logging in through this OTP.
Eligibility Criteria
Certain eligibility criteria must be met to qualify for the grant. The daughter should be at least 18 years old at the time of her marriage, while the groom’s age should be 21 years or older. Additionally, the online application can be submitted 90 days before and 90 days after the wedding date.
Income Thresholds
The scheme also takes into consideration the annual income of the applicant. In rural areas, the maximum permissible annual income is Rs 46,080, while in urban areas, it is Rs 56,460. It is crucial for applicants to provide their caste certificate, income certificate, and bank account details when applying online. Any incorrect entries in the application could lead to the rejection of the application, with the responsibility for accuracy falling squarely on the applicant.
Application Process
For those interested in applying for the Marriage Grant, the process can be initiated from various locations, including Jan Seva Kendras, Lokvani Kendras, Cyber Cafés, or even from the comfort of one’s home using a personal internet connection or smartphone. The official website for online applications is www.shadianudan.upsdc.gov.in.
The Marriage Grant Scheme not only eases the financial burdens of wedding expenses but also symbolizes the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. In providing this grant, the state aims to empower families and ensure that the journey towards matrimony is a little less stressful and a lot more joyous for its daughters.
