The “Marriage Assistance to Normal Persons Marrying Orthopedically Differently Abled Persons” scheme was launched by the Department for the Welfare of Differently Abled Persons, Government of Tamil Nadu. This initiative supports marriages between a normal individual and an orthopedically differently abled person, promoting inclusivity and reducing financial barriers. The scheme aims to alleviate the extra financial burden associated with such unions, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of physical ability, have the opportunity to experience the joys of marriage.
Benefits
- Standard Assistance:
- Total assistance of ₹25,000 provided as:
- ₹12,500 through a National Savings Certificate
- ₹12,500 via cheque or Demand Draft for marriage expenses
- Total assistance of ₹25,000 provided as:
- Increased Assistance:
- If either spouse holds a degree or diploma, the total assistance is increased to ₹50,000, distributed as:
- ₹25,000 through a National Savings Certificate
- ₹25,000 via cheque or Demand Draft
- If either spouse holds a degree or diploma, the total assistance is increased to ₹50,000, distributed as:
- Additional Perks:
- Certificate of appreciation
- An 8-gram gold coin for Tirumangalyam (a traditional South Indian symbol of marriage for women)
Eligibility
- Basic Criteria:
- A normal person must marry an orthopedically differently abled person.
- Both parties should be above 18 years of age.
- Additional Criteria:
- If either the normal person or the differently abled person holds a degree or diploma, they are eligible for the increased assistance.
- Benefit Limitation:
- The assistance is a one-time benefit per couple.
- Application Timing:
- The application must be made within two years of the marriage.
- Inter-district Considerations:
- For couples residing in different districts, the application should be submitted in the district of the couple’s permanent residence post-marriage. The respective District Social Defence Officers must coordinate accordingly.
Application Process
Offline Process
- Obtain Application Form:
- Visit the District Differently Abled Welfare Office during office hours.
- Request a hard copy of the prescribed application form from the designated staff.
- Complete the Form:
- Fill in all mandatory fields.
- Attach copies of all required documents (self-attested, if necessary).
- Submit the Form:
- Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the documents to the District Differently Abled Welfare Officer.
- Obtain Acknowledgment:
- Request a receipt or acknowledgment that includes the date and time of submission and, if applicable, a unique identification number.
Documents Required
- National Identity Card of the differently abled bride and groom.
- Marriage Certificate.
- Age proof for both the bride and the groom.
- Degree or Diploma Certificate (for either or both, if applicable for increased assistance).
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the breakdown of the assistance between National Savings Certificate and cash?
Under the standard benefit, the assistance is split equally as ₹12,500 through a National Savings Certificate and ₹12,500 by cheque or Demand Draft. With a degree/diploma, the amounts increase to ₹25,000 each. -
Who is eligible to receive the marriage assistance?
The scheme is for a normal person marrying an orthopedically differently abled person, with both individuals being over 18 years of age. -
What is the increased assistance amount for those holding a degree or diploma?
The increased assistance amount is ₹50,000 in total (₹25,000 via National Savings Certificate and ₹25,000 via cheque/Demand Draft). -
Can couples with disabilities residing in different districts avail of the scheme?
Yes, provided the application is submitted in the district of the couple’s permanent residence and proper coordination is maintained between district officers. -
How many times can a couple avail of the scheme’s benefits?
The assistance is provided only once per couple. -
Is there a time limit for applying to the scheme?
Yes, the application must be made within two years of the marriage. -
How can eligible applicants apply for the scheme?
Applications must be submitted offline at the District Differently Abled Welfare Office as outlined above.