The Bihar government has introduced the Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024, also known as the Dr. Ambedkar Scheme, to foster social integration through inter-caste marriages. This initiative, which is also called the Bihar Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme, provides financial support of ₹2.5 lakh to couples who marry outside their caste.
The financial assistance offered is meant to support the couples economically. The scheme is managed by the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment along with the Chairperson of the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation. If any false information is provided to claim the benefits, the amount may be recovered from the beneficiary. Originally designed for a two-year period, the scheme is now extended to operate annually.
Financial Assistance Under the Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024
To receive financial assistance from the Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024, beneficiaries must complete a stamped affidavit on a non-judicial stamp paper of ₹10. Upon submission, ₹1.5 lakh will be deposited into the beneficiary’s bank account via RTGS or NEFT. The remaining amount will be held in deposit for three years, after which both the principal and interest will be provided to the married couple.
Additionally, district and state governments will promote inter-caste marriages by organizing mass inter-caste wedding events through media channels. Each of these mass marriage events will receive ₹25,000 from the department, which will be given to the participating inter-caste couples as support.
Eligibility for Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024
To be eligible for the Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024, applicants must be permanent residents of Bihar. The scheme is available to couples where one partner belongs to a Scheduled Caste (SC) and the other to a non-Scheduled Caste. The marriage must be legally recognized and registered under the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955.
Additionally, the married couple must submit a marriage affidavit. If the marriage is registered under a different act, a separate certificate must be provided. This scheme applies only to the couple’s first marriage, and they must apply within one year of the marriage.
Bihar Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme 2024: Responsibilities
- Application Process:
- Submit Applications: Applicants must complete and submit the application forms as per the scheme’s guidelines.
- Document Submission: Provide all necessary documents, such as marriage certificates, proof of caste, and identity proofs, to verify eligibility.
- Eligibility Verification:
- Ensure Compliance: Verify that both parties meet the eligibility criteria set by the scheme, including caste and income requirements.
- Document Authentication: Ensure that all documents submitted are authentic and meet the scheme’s requirements.
- Financial Management:
- Utilize Incentives: Manage and utilize the financial incentive of ₹2.5 lakh provided by the government for purposes such as setting up a home or other related expenses.
- Maintain Records: Keep detailed records of how the incentive money is used, in case of future audits or inquiries.
- Scheme Compliance:
- Follow Guidelines: Adhere to all guidelines and procedures specified in the scheme, including the correct usage of funds and timely reporting.
- Report Changes: Notify the relevant authorities of any significant changes in personal circumstances that could affect eligibility.
- Supporting Documentation:
- Provide Proof: Ensure that all required documents are provided, such as proof of marriage, proof of caste certificates, and other necessary paperwork.
- Update Information: Update any personal or contact information as required to maintain accurate records with the scheme’s administering body.
- Communication with Authorities:
- Regular Updates: Keep in touch with the authorities for updates on the application status or any additional requirements.
- Clarify Doubts: Seek clarification from scheme administrators on any doubts or issues related to the application process or eligibility criteria.
- Adherence to Legal Requirements:
- Legal Compliance: Ensure that the marriage and all related activities comply with legal requirements and norms set by the government.
- Follow-Up: Follow up on the implementation of the scheme to ensure that the benefits are received and utilized as intended.
- Feedback and Reporting:
- Provide Feedback: Offer feedback on the scheme’s process and administration if requested, to help improve the scheme for future applicants.
- Submit Reports: If required, submit periodic reports or updates to the scheme administrators regarding the utilization of the incentive.
By fulfilling these responsibilities, applicants and beneficiaries can ensure that they fully benefit from the Bihar Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme and comply with its requirements.
Essential Documents for Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024
For the Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024, the required documents include:
- Aadhaar Card
- Residence Certificate
- Income Certificate
- Age Proof
- Marriage Certificate
- Wedding Photos
- Wedding Invitation Card
- Ration Card
- Passport-Sized Photographs
- Mobile Number
Benefits of Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024
- Financial Assistance: Couples receive ₹2.5 lakh as financial support for promoting inter-caste marriages.
- Management: The scheme is managed by the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Chairperson of the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation.
- Application Requirement: Couples must submit a pre-approved affidavit to receive the financial assistance.
- Initial Payment: ₹1.5 lakh is deposited into the couple’s bank account via RTGS or NEFT.
- Remaining Amount: The remaining amount is earned as interest over a period of three years.
- Fraud Penalty: If false information is provided, the amount may need to be repaid.
- Scheme Duration: Initially for two years, the scheme is now operational annually.
Key Points About Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024
- Subsidy Amount: A grant of ₹2.5 lakh is provided for inter-caste marriages.
- Payment Method: The amount will be transferred directly to the beneficiary’s bank account using RTGS or NEFT.
- Joint Bank Account: A joint bank account in both spouses’ names is required to ensure efficient transfer of financial assistance.
- Eligibility and Integration: The scheme facilitates integration by ensuring that both partners are included in the financial assistance process.
How to Apply for Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024
If you meet the eligibility criteria for Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana 2024, follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to Website.
- Download the Application Form: Download and print the application form from the website.
- Fill Out the Form: Complete the application form with all required details, including your name, address, date of birth, email ID, marriage date, and bank account information.
- Attach Required Documents: Attach all necessary documents to the completed form.
- Submit the Form: Submit the filled-out application form to the relevant department.
- Complete the Process: Your application process will be successfully completed for the Bihar Antarjatiya Vivah Protsahan Yojana.