The “Financial Assistance to Newlyweds under Kanyadan Yojana (Vijabhaj)” scheme is launched by the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance, Government of Maharashtra. This initiative aims to reduce the economic, social, and educational backwardness of Scheduled Castes (including Neo-Buddhists), Vimukta Castes, Nomadic Tribes (including Dhangars and Vanjaris), and Special Backward Classes in Maharashtra. The scheme provides a grant for the first marriage of both the bride and the groom from these communities. Additionally, institutions and organizations organizing mass marriage ceremonies for these communities receive an incentive grant.
Benefits
- For Newlyweds:
A financial assistance of ₹10,000/- is provided to couples participating in mass marriage ceremonies. - For Organizers:
An incentive grant of ₹2,000/- per couple is offered to institutions and organizations that conduct mass marriage ceremonies for eligible communities.
Eligibility
- Residency:
Both the bride and the groom must be permanent residents of Maharashtra. - Age Requirements:
- The groom should be at least 21 years old.
- The bride should be at least 18 years old.
- Marital Status:
The grant is admissible only for the first marriage of the bride and groom; however, a widow can also receive assistance for her second marriage. - Caste/Community:
Either or both of the bride and groom must belong to one of the following categories:- Scheduled Castes (including Neo-Buddhists)
- Vimukta Castes
- Nomadic Tribes (including Dhangars and Vanjaris)
- Special Backward Classes
Application Process
The application process for this scheme is conducted offline:
- Obtain the Application Form:
- Visit the District Social Welfare Office during office hours.
- Request a hard copy of the prescribed application form from the concerned authority.
- Fill in the Application Form:
- Complete all mandatory fields.
- Paste a passport-sized photograph (signed across, if required).
- Attach copies of all required documents (self-attested, if needed).
- Submit the Application:
- Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the documents to the Assistant Commissioner or the Social Welfare Officer at the District Social Welfare Office.
- Obtain Acknowledgment:
- Request a receipt or acknowledgment from the authority where you submitted the application. Ensure that it contains essential details such as the date, time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
Note: Ensure that the application is submitted within any prescribed period.
Documents Required
- Identity Proof (e.g., Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, etc.)
- Passport-size Photograph
- Proof of Residence
- Ration Card
- Bank Account Details
- Proof of Age
- Marriage Certificate
- A written affidavit by the couple/family stating that there is no violation of any section under the Prevention of Child Marriage Act and the Prevention of Dowry Act.
- A caste certificate issued by a competent and authorized officer
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the “Kanyadan Yojana (Vijabhaj)” scheme?
It is a scheme that provides financial assistance to newlywed couples from specified backward communities in Maharashtra to help reduce economic, social, and educational backwardness. -
How much financial assistance is provided under this scheme?
Eligible couples receive ₹10,000/- in financial assistance. -
Can organizations receive assistance for mass marriage ceremonies?
Yes, institutions and organizations that organize mass marriage ceremonies for eligible communities are offered an incentive grant of ₹2,000/- per couple. -
Who is eligible for the financial assistance?
The scheme is available to newlywed couples from Scheduled Castes (including Neo-Buddhists), Vimukta Castes, Nomadic Tribes (including Dhangars and Vanjaris), and Special Backward Classes who are residents of Maharashtra. -
What is the age requirement for the bride and groom?
The groom must be at least 21 years old, and the bride must be at least 18 years old. -
Is the financial assistance provided for all marriages?
No, it is provided only for the first marriage of the bride and groom, though a widow may receive assistance for her second marriage. -
Do both the bride and groom need to belong to the same caste category?
No, it is sufficient if either or both belong to the eligible communities. -
What documents are required to apply for the scheme?
Required documents include identity proofs, passport-sized photograph, proof of residence, ration card, bank account details, proof of age, marriage certificate, a written affidavit regarding legal compliances, and a caste certificate. -
Is there any income limit to apply for the scheme?
There is no income limit mentioned in the scheme guidelines. -
What is the procedure for applying for this scheme?
The procedure involves obtaining the application form from the District Social Welfare Office, filling it out with all necessary details and documents, and submitting it to the designated authority with acknowledgment of submission.