Marriage Assistance Scheme helps over 14K families across Valley

In a major step towards supporting economically weaker sections, the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s Marriage Assistance Scheme has emerged as a vital support system for underprivileged families seeking help in marrying off their daughters.

Implemented by the Department of Social Welfare, the scheme was launched with the objective of extending financial assistance to families unable to bear marriage expenses due to poor economic conditions.

Demonstrating the scheme’s growing impact, a total of 14,965 cases were sanctioned in the Kashmir division during 2024-25 alone, with financial assistance amounting to Rs 74,82,50,000.

Among the districts, Baramulla recorded the highest awareness and uptake, with 2,472 beneficiaries availing assistance worth Rs 12,36,00,000, followed by Anantnag with 2,293 cases involving Rs 11,46,50,000 in assistance.

On the other end, Ganderbal district reported the least number of beneficiaries, with only 592 cases and Rs 2,96,00,000 sanctioned during 2024-25.

Under the scheme, families holding Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) or Priority Household (PHH) ration cards are eligible to apply for financial aid. The financial assistance granted is Rs 75,000 for girls from AAY ration cardholder families and Rs 50,000 for those from PHH ration cardholder families.

This is a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme, ensuring that the sanctioned amount is directly credited into the beneficiaries’ bank accounts, streamlining the process and guaranteeing transparency.

Eligible beneficiaries include girls aged 18 years or above with a minimum educational qualification of class eighth pass or its equivalent. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior to the intended date of marriage.

Applicants are required to submit necessary documents such as a Date of Birth Certificate, AAY or PHH Ration Card, Aadhaar Card and Educational Qualification Certificate while applying for financial assistance under the scheme.

J & K