English
English
English
Maharashtra unveils a revised marriage support scheme offering up to Rs 2.5 lakh for couples with disabilities and Rs 1.5 lakh for mixed marriages, reinforcing social inclusion, financial empowerment, and incentives for first-time legally registered marriages in the state.
Eligibility includes minimum 40 percent disability.
Mumbai: In a significant step to promote inclusivity, the Maharashtra government has announced a new financial assistance scheme aimed at encouraging the marriage of persons with disabilities. Under the revised policy, couples where both partners have disabilities will receive Rs 2.5 lakh from the state, marking a substantial incentive to support social integration and empowerment.
The government has also extended the scheme to cover marriages between a disabled and a non-disabled partner. In such cases, couples will receive Rs 1.5 lakh as financial aid. This extension highlights the state’s commitment to supporting diverse family structures and reducing barriers for people with disabilities in forming marital unions.
According to the official guidelines, the assistance will be transferred directly to the joint bank account of the husband and wife through the Maharashtra Direct Benefit Transfer system, ensuring transparency and efficiency. Half of the sanctioned amount will be kept as a fixed deposit, providing a financial safety net and encouraging long-term savings for newly married couples.
To avail the benefits, at least one partner must have a disability of 40 percent or more, verified through a valid UDID card. Applicants must also be residents of Maharashtra. The scheme applies only to legally registered first marriages, and applications must be submitted within one year of the marriage. Selection will be finalised by a district-level committee after submission to the concerned District Empowerment Officer for Persons with Disabilities.
The scheme is not only a financial initiative but also a social empowerment measure. By offering substantial support for marriages involving persons with disabilities, Maharashtra aims to create an inclusive environment where individuals feel encouraged and supported in personal milestones. It also signals the government’s dedication to the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
Viral: Straight out of a film; Bihar man rescues orphan girl begging in train and marries her
The incentive amount has been revised periodically to match changing social and economic requirements. With the current revision, the government has ensured that the financial aid is meaningful and aligns with the rising costs of marriage and living expenses, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to social welfare and empowerment.
By providing this support, the Maharashtra government addresses both the social and financial challenges faced by disabled individuals seeking to marry. The scheme acts as a dual mechanism, promoting the dignity of persons with disabilities while also ensuring that newlyweds have a modest financial base to start their lives together.
