Despite its thriving social and economic progress India still struggles with caste discrimination in reality. The Rajasthan government launched the Dr Savita Ben Ambedkar Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme to tackle complex caste discrimination. The programme works to create better race and religious relationships by giving financial assistance to people who marry outside their caste or religious group. The scheme takes its name from the spouse of Dr B.R. Ambedkar to help people of different castes unite and create an open society.
What Is Dr Savita Ben Ambedkar’s Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme?
Dr Savita Ben Ambedkar's Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme came into existence to empower inter-caste and inter-faith couples. It will provide financial incentives for social hostility from their families and communities. Named after Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s wife, Savita Ambedkar. This scheme promotes his ideals of stopping caste barriers that continue to divide India even after seven decades of independence.
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Eligibility Criteria
To benefit from this scheme, couples must meet specific eligibility requirements. These criteria ensure that the incentives reach deserving individuals who are genuinely committed to an inter-caste or interfaith marriage.
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To consider a marriage eligible for inter caste marriage scheme, one of the spouses must belong to the Scheduled Caste and the other to the Non-Scheduled Caste.
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The marriage must be valid as per the law. Secondly, it must be duly registered under the Hindu Marriage Act 1955.
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If the marriage is registered other than the Hindu Marriage Act 1955, the couple must furnish a separate certificate as per Annexure - 1 of the format.
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An affidavit showing that the couple is legally married must be submitted.
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The proposal must be submitted within one year of marriage.
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No incentive shall be granted on the second or subsequent marriage.
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In case the couple has already received any incentive from the UT Administration/State Government, the amount approved shall be adjusted from the total incentive to be released.
What Is The Extent Of Incentive For Dr Ambedkar Foundation Marriage Scheme
The financial assistance provided under this scheme is structured to support couples both immediately and in the long run. The incentive is released in two phases to ensure financial stability and encourage long-term commitment.
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An amount of 1.50 Lakh shall be released to the couple through RTGS/NEFT in their joint bank account.
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In addition to this, the remaining amount shall be kept in an FD of the foundation for 3 years. Couples will receive this remaining amount along with the interest gained after 3 years.
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Objectives
This scheme is designed with multiple objectives aimed at eliminating caste-based discrimination and promoting social equality. The financial support provided serves as a tool to encourage more couples to challenge societal norms.
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Encourage inter-caste and inter-faith marriages by providing monetary incentives.
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Prevent harassment of couples in inter-caste unions by family members.
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Raise awareness to build public support for inter-caste marriage alliances.
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Uproot archaic mindsets that perpetuate caste discrimination.
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By financially supporting couples who show courage against social diktats, the scheme aims to speed up India’s integration.
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What Are The Key Features Of Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme?
Several provisions have been introduced under this scheme to ensure its successful implementation. These features help couples navigate the challenges that come with inter-caste marriages while promoting societal acceptance.
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INR 2.5 lakhs incentive for inter-caste married couples.
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Applicable for the first 2 years of marriage through EMIs.
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The bride or groom must be Rajasthan-based.
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Submission of a marriage certificate is mandatory.
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Special focus on mass awareness building about the scheme.
This policy leverages the vision of Dr Ambedkar by striving towards wiping out the caste barriers. Moreover, it also votes for the inter-mixing of diverse social groups through marital alliances. It aims to secure equality by attracting participation from marginalised communities.
Also read: Mahtari Vandana Scheme: A Game-Changer For Women
Why Does Incentivising Inter-Faith Marriages Matter?
Inter-caste and interfaith marriages often face severe backlash, including social ostracization and even violence. By offering financial aid and legal protection, this scheme seeks to address these challenges and foster a more inclusive society.
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SC/ST and Dalit communities still face widespread discrimination due to their caste. Also, honour killings prove that social acceptance of inter-caste relationships still remains far from reality. This scheme shall pave the way for their social acceptance.
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By encouraging interfaith unions, the scheme seeks to shape positive narratives for such communities.
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The scheme also aims to assure couples of protection against potential harassment, generating confidence in making marriage choices irrespective of caste.
The scheme aims to speed up Dr Ambedkar’s vision to restructure Indian society. By lending social approval and legal sanction.
Conclusion
Dr Savita Ben Ambedkar’s Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Scheme clearly aims to eradicate caste discrimination and encourage social acceptance of people irrespective of their caste, creed, and gender. However, the path is not as easy as it appears on paper. Therefore, the district government and society must ensure continuous efforts to promote such marriages as much as possible. You can also email at raj.sje@rajasthan.gov.in.
For more information, visit Jaagruk Bharat's official website. You can also ask questions if you have any, or keep your opinion here.
