Odisha Inter Caste Marriage Scheme: Eligibility, Benefits & Application Process
Inter caste marriages play a crucial role in fostering social integration and eradicating caste-based discrimination. To encourage such marriages, the Government of Odisha has introduced the Odisha Inter Caste Marriage Scheme, offering financial assistance of ₹2.5 lakh to eligible couples. This scheme aims to support newlywed inter-caste couples in their initial phase of marriage and promote harmony in society.
What is the Odisha Inter Caste Marriage Scheme?
The Odisha government provides a cash incentive of ₹2.5 lakh to inter caste couples where one spouse belongs to a Scheduled Caste (SC) community belonging to the Hindu community and the other is a caste Hindu. This initiative is a step towards abolishing untouchability and promoting equality among communities. Initially, the financial incentive was ₹50,000, which was increased to ₹1 lakh, and later to ₹1.5 lakh in August 2017. As of 2025, the incentive amount stands at ₹2.5 lakh. These enhancements reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to encouraging inter-caste marriages and fostering social harmony.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Financial assistance of ₹2.5 lakh to the eligible couple.
- Encourages social integration and equality.
- Helps couples establish a stable financial foundation.
- The amount can be used for purchasing land, essential household items, or starting a business.
Odisha Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Odisha Inter Caste Marriage Scheme, couples must meet the following conditions:
- Marriage Validity: The marriage should be legally registered under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
- Caste Requirement: One of the spouses must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community, while the other must be a caste Hindu/ other category
- Citizenship & Residency: Both spouses must be Indian citizens and permanent residents of Odisha.
- Religion: Both partners must profess the Hindu religion.
- First Marriage: The incentive is available only for first-time marriages, except if the bride is a widow or the groom is a widower (proof must be mentioned in the marriage certificate).
- Applicable Period: The marriage must have taken place after the issuance of the government resolution.
- No Second Marriage Benefit: The incentive is not available for second or subsequent marriages.
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Documents Required for Application
Applicants must upload the following scanned copies while applying:
- Registered Marriage Certificate
- Caste Certificates of both spouses
- Joint Photograph of the couple (husband & wife)
- Declaration Form (Annexure II & Annexure IV) duly signed
- Joint Bank Passbook of the couple from a Government/Nationalized Bank
- Date of Birth Certificates of both spouses
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Odisha Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Apply online
Follow these simple steps to apply online for the Odisha Inter Caste Marriage Scheme:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to official website
- Register an Account: Click on “Register Here” and create an account by filling in the required details.
- Login to Your Account: After successful registration, log in using your credentials.
- Fill in Marriage Details: Provide necessary details like applicant name, Aadhaar card number, district, block name, and other personal details.
- Upload Required Documents: Attach scanned copies of your marriage certificate, caste certificates, declaration forms, and joint bank passbook.
- Submit Your Application: Verify all details and submit the application form successfully.
Conclusion
The Odisha Inter Caste Marriage Scheme is a significant step towards promoting social unity and inclusiveness. If you or someone you know has entered into an inter-caste marriage, ensure they apply for this ₹2.5 lakh incentive and benefit from the government’s progressive initiative.
For more details and to apply online, visit sumangal.odisha.gov.in today!