Chandigarh, October 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Reaffirming its commitment to social equality and an inclusive society, the Punjab Government has provided financial assistance of over ₹4.06 crore to 1,353 inter-caste married couples during the current financial year, Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said on Monday.
The initiative, implemented under the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, aims to encourage inter-caste marriages, promote social integration and strengthen the constitutional values of equality, fraternity and social justice.
Dr Baljit Kaur said every eligible inter-caste married couple receives financial assistance of ₹50,000. Of this amount, ₹30,000 is directly credited to the beneficiary’s Aadhaar-seeded bank account, while the remaining ₹20,000 is provided through a National Savings Certificate (NSC) issued through the Post Office.
She said the assistance offers immediate financial support while also promoting long-term financial security for beneficiaries.
Explaining the eligibility criteria, the Cabinet Minister said one spouse must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community and the other to the non-Scheduled Caste (Non-SC) community. The groom must be at least 21 years old, while the bride must be 18 years or above.
Eligible couples can apply for financial assistance within three years of their marriage, she added.
Dr Baljit Kaur said the government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann was committed to building a society in which every citizen enjoys equal dignity, opportunities and rights, irrespective of caste or social background.
She emphasised that social justice and inclusive development were essential to building a stronger, more harmonious Punjab.
Describing inter-caste marriages as an important means of social transformation, the Minister said such unions help overcome traditional caste barriers and promote mutual respect, equality and national integration.
She added that the financial assistance was not merely an economic incentive but also reflected the government’s commitment to progressive social values and stronger social cohesion.
Dr Baljit Kaur urged all eligible inter-caste married couples to apply for the scheme within the prescribed period. She said the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities was committed to ensuring that every eligible beneficiary received assistance transparently, promptly and without unnecessary difficulties.
Reiterating the state government’s commitment to inclusive welfare, the Minister said Punjab would continue implementing people-centric initiatives to translate the constitutional ideals of equality, dignity and social justice into reality for every citizen.
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