The “Matrimonial Incentives” scheme is an initiative by the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance, Government of Maharashtra. It is designed to promote inclusivity and support marriages involving a Person with Disability (PwD) who marries a non-disabled person. The scheme provides a comprehensive marriage incentive package, fully funded by the state, exclusively for permanent residents of Maharashtra.
Benefits
Eligible couples receive up to ₹50,000 in financial assistance, which is structured as follows:
- Savings Certificate: ₹25,000
- Cash Component: ₹20,000
- Household Utility Assistance: ₹4,500
- Marriage Incentive Program Fee: ₹500
Eligibility
To qualify for the scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of India.
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident of Maharashtra.
- Disability Criteria:
- The applicant must be a Person with Disability (PwD), which may include categories such as visually handicapped, low vision, hearing impaired, orthopedically handicapped, etc.
- The disability percentage must be 40% or above.
- Marriage Requirement:
- The applicant should be married to a non-disabled person.
- Funding:
- The scheme is 100% funded by the Government of Maharashtra.
Application Process
Offline Process
- Obtain the Application Form:
- Visit your local District Social Welfare Office and request a hard copy of the application form from the designated authority.
- Complete the Form:
- Fill in all the mandatory fields.
- Affix a passport-sized photograph (signed across).
- Attach all required documents (self-attested).
- Submit the Application:
- Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the supporting documents to the District Social Welfare Office.
- Receipt:
- Collect the receipt or acknowledgment, which should include the date and time of submission along with a unique identification number for future reference.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Two passport-size photographs (signed across)
- Residential Certificate or Domicile Certificate of Maharashtra
- Disability Certificate
- Bank Account Details (including bank name, branch, address, IFSC code, etc.)
- Proof of Age (Birth Certificate or Class 10th/12th Marksheet)
- Proof of Marriage
- Any additional documents as required by the District Social Welfare Office
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Is it mandatory for both the husband and the wife to be disabled?
No, the scheme applies when a Person with Disability marries a non-disabled person. -
What should be the minimum percentage of disability?
The applicant must have a disability of 40% or above. -
How is the financial assistance structured?
The benefit includes a ₹25,000 Savings Certificate, ₹20,000 in cash, ₹4,500 as household utility assistance, and ₹500 for the marriage incentive program. -
Will the entire financial assistance be provided as cash?
No, it is provided in a mixed format as described above. -
Who is eligible to apply?
Only citizens who are permanent residents of Maharashtra and meet the disability criteria are eligible. -
Can applicants from neighboring states apply?
No, eligibility is restricted to permanent residents of Maharashtra. -
Is there any income-related criterion for this scheme?
The scheme does not specify an income criterion. -
Can one reapply if already availing of benefits under this scheme?
No, reapplication is not permitted once the benefit has been received. -
What does SJSA stand for?
SJSA stands for Social Justice & Special Assistance. -
Is the scheme state or centrally funded?
This is a state-funded scheme, fully financed by the Government of Maharashtra. -
Is there an application fee?
No, there is no application fee for this scheme. -
What should applicants do if there is a delay in disbursal of benefits?
For any delay-related issues, applicants should contact the District Social Welfare Office or use the designated grievance redressal mechanism. -
How do I know if a field in the application form is mandatory?
Mandatory fields will be clearly indicated on the application form. -
Where can I find the application form? Is it available online?
The application form is available as a hard copy at the District Social Welfare Office. -
Where can I find the URL to the website of the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance?
Please refer to the official website or contact your local District Social Welfare Office. -
Where can I post my grievances related to this scheme?
Grievances can be submitted at the District Social Welfare Office or through the designated grievance cell. -
What is the address of the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance, Government of Maharashtra?
This information can be obtained from the official website or local office directories. -
Are there any guidelines available online?
Yes, scheme guidelines and application formats can typically be accessed via the official website or by contacting the District Social Welfare Office.