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Social welfare & Empowerment

Incentive Award to Inter-Caste Married Couples

The scheme “Incentive Award to Inter-Caste Married Couples” was introduced by the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department, Government of Puducherry. The objective of the scheme is to reduce the effect of untouchability and as a step towards bringing about a casteless society.

Authority

State/ UT

Region

Puducherry

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

An award with a value of ₹ 50,000/- (₹ 20,000/ - in cash, and ₹ 30,000/- in the form of a National Saving Certificate).

Who can apply

The bride and groom should be citizens of India.; The marriage should be performed between Scheduled Caste and other communities.; The marriage should be registered.; The marriage should be taking place for the first time between the bride and groom.; Both bride and groom or either of them should be a native of Puducherry.; The application should be submitted within 60 days from the date of performance of marriage.

Required Paperwork

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Residence Proof (Domicile)

Common Questions

What forms of recognition and support does the scheme provide to the married couples?

The awarded sum of [?]50,000, including cash and a National Saving Certificate, acknowledges and supports the inter-caste married couples.

Can the scheme be availed for marriages involving non-citizens of India?

No, the scheme is exclusively for Indian citizens, emphasizing the significance of inter-caste marriages within the country.

How does the scheme contribute to societal change?

The scheme serves as a step towards fostering a casteless society by encouraging inter-caste marriages.

Is there a specific department overseeing this scheme?

The "Incentive Award to Inter-Caste Married Couples" is managed by the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department under the Government of Puducherry.

Can you elaborate on the time limit for submitting the application?

Applications must be submitted within 60 days from the date of the marriage ceremony to be considered.

What is the geographical requirement for eligibility?

Either the bride or groom must be a native of Puducherry for the couple to be eligible for the scheme.

Are there any specific conditions regarding the marital history of the couple?

The marriage should be the first-time union between the bride and groom to qualify for the scheme.

What is the monetary value of the award provided under this scheme?

The award holds a value of [?]50,000, distributed as [?]20,000 in cash and [?]30,000 in the form of a National Saving Certificate.

What is the primary objective of the "Incentive Award to Inter-Caste Married Couples" scheme?

The scheme aims to reduce the impact of untouchability and promote a casteless society.

Is There Any Compensation For The Delay In The Disbursal Of The Scheme Benefits?

The guidelines do not mention any provision for compensation in the event of delayed disbursement of scheme benefits. Applicants should note that compensation for delays is not part of the scheme's framework.

Where Can I Find The Link To The Scheme Guidelines?

You can access the comprehensive Scheme Guidelines, which provide intricate details and instructions, at the following web address: https://py.gov.in/sites/default/files/citizencharter-adidravidar.pdf