AI SummaryIncentive Award to Inter-Caste Married Couples is a government scheme run by the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department in Puducherry. It gives financial support to couples who marry outside their caste, so that the practice of untouchability slowly goes away and a casteless society takes shape. The scheme is still open for eligible couples in the 2026-27 period.
By offering this award, the government recognises the courage of couples who choose inter-caste marriage. If you want to apply, make sure you meet all the conditions given below before you start.
Incentive Award to Inter-Caste Married Couples
This scheme is run by the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department of the Government of Puducherry. It encourages social integration by supporting inter-caste marriages, which helps break the walls of untouchability and builds a more inclusive society. The cash support given under the scheme is a way of appreciating couples who take this step.
The department continues to accept fresh applications for the financial year 2026-27, including through the regional offices in different parts of the Union Territory.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Incentive Award to Inter-Caste Married Couples |
| Level | State |
| Target Beneficiary | Family |
| State | Puducherry |
| Nodal Department | Adi Dravidar Welfare Department |
| Benefit Type | Cash and National Saving Certificate |
| DBT Scheme | No |
Benefits
To support your new beginning, this scheme gives a total award of ₹50,000. The amount is split so that you get both immediate cash help and a long-term saving.
| Type of Benefit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cash Incentive | ₹20,000 |
| National Saving Certificate | ₹30,000 |
| Total Award | ₹50,000 |
Eligibility
You need to meet the following conditions to qualify for this support:
- Both you and your spouse should be citizens of India, and at least one of you must be a native resident of Puducherry.
- The marriage must be between a person from a Scheduled Caste and a person from another community.
- You should have registered your marriage officially, and it should be the first marriage for both of you.
- You should submit your application within 60 days of the date of your marriage.
For example, if Ramesh, who belongs to a Scheduled Caste, marries Sunita from another community, they can apply for this award provided they meet the residency and registration conditions.
Application Process
You can apply for this financial support through either the online or the offline mode.
Online Application Process
STEP 1 - Visit the official e-District portal of the Government of Puducherry.
STEP 2 - Create an account by clicking on the Register a New Membership link if you are a first-time user.
STEP 3 - Once registered, log in to your dashboard using your credentials.
STEP 4 - Browse the list of available schemes, locate Incentive Award to Inter-Caste Married Couples, and open the application form.
STEP 5 - Fill in all the details, upload the required documents, and submit your application. Note down your unique application number to track your status later.
Offline Application Process
STEP 1 - Visit the nearest office of the Adi Dravidar Welfare and Scheduled Tribes Welfare Department during official working hours.
STEP 2 - Request a physical copy of the application form from the concerned official. You can also view the official scheme details and guidelines on the Puducherry government page.
STEP 3 - Complete the form, attach the necessary documents, and sign where required.
STEP 4 - Submit the paperwork to the office and make sure you receive an acknowledgment receipt with a unique reference number.
Documents
Keep the following required documents list ready for your application:
- Residence-cum-nativity certificate and Aadhaar card of the bride and groom.
- Joint bank account passbook, birth certificate or transfer certificate (TC) for both, and caste certificates for both.
- Official marriage registration certificate, MLA or MP-issued first marriage certificate, recent passport-sized photographs, and voter ID cards of both applicants.
If you do not have an Aadhaar card, you should provide an Aadhaar Enrollment ID along with any one of the following: PAN card, Passport, Ration card, MGNREGA job card, or a driving license.
References
Official Scheme Page of Puducherry Government
Track your application status online
Contact departmental offices for help
FAQ's
What is the primary goal of this scheme?
This scheme aims to reduce the practice of untouchability and encourages social equality by supporting inter-caste marriages.
How much financial support is offered?
You will receive a total of ₹50,000, consisting of ₹20,000 in cash and ₹30,000 in a National Saving Certificate.
Is there a deadline for applying?
Yes, you should submit your application within 60 days from the date your marriage was performed.
Which department manages this scheme?
The Adi Dravidar Welfare Department in Puducherry oversees the administration of this scheme.
Can I apply if only one of us is a native of Puducherry?
Yes, as long as at least one spouse is a native of Puducherry, you are eligible to apply.