In Karnataka, the state government actively supports inter-caste marriages to promote social harmony and reduce caste-based discrimination. Through the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Development Corporation and the Social Welfare Department, Karnataka provides financial assistance to couples from different castes, especially where one partner belongs to a Scheduled Caste (SC).
This article explains the eligibility, benefits, documents needed, and the step-by-step process to apply for inter-caste marriage financial assistance in Karnataka.
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✅ Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the financial benefit, couples must meet the following conditions:
1. Inter-Caste Marriage: One partner must be from a Scheduled Caste (SC) and the other from a non-SC caste.
2. First Marriage: This must be the first marriage for both individuals.
3. Marriage Registration: The marriage must be legally registered under the Hindu Marriage Act or Special Marriage Act.
4. Domicile: At least one spouse must be a resident of Karnataka.
5. Income Limit: Some schemes may apply an annual income limit (usually up to ₹5 lakhs).
6. Application Time: Apply within 1 year of the marriage date.
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💰 Benefit Amount
Under the Karnataka government scheme:
Couples may receive up to ₹3,00,000 as financial support.
If the SC partner is a woman, the amount is ₹3 lakh.
In other cases, the amount is ₹2.5 lakh.
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📋 Required Documents
Make sure to collect and scan these documents before applying:
1. Marriage Certificate (registered)
2. Caste Certificate of SC partner (from competent authority)
3. Caste Certificate of non-SC partner
4. Income Certificate
5. Domicile/Residential Certificate
6. Aadhaar Card of both spouses
7. Joint Bank Account Passbook (any nationalized bank)
8. Passport Size Photos
9. Declaration form (stating it is the first marriage)
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🖥️ How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide
Option 1: Online Application (Preferred Method)
1. Visit the Official Portal
Go to sevasindhu.karnataka.gov.in – Karnataka’s official services platform.
2. Search the Scheme
Type “Inter-Caste Marriage Assistance” or look under the Social Welfare Department section.
3. Register/Login
Create an account using your Aadhaar and phone number. If already registered, log in.
4. Fill the Form
Enter personal details, marriage details, and bank information.
Upload all the required documents in proper format (PDF/JPEG).
5. Submit Application
After double-checking the details, click on Submit.
6. Track Status
You will receive an acknowledgment number. Use it to track the status on the same portal.
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Option 2: Offline Method
1. Visit your Taluk Social Welfare Office or District Social Welfare Office.
2. Collect the application form for inter-caste marriage assistance.
3. Fill the form manually and attach photocopies of all required documents.
4. Submit it to the Assistant Director or Designated Officer.
5. Collect the acknowledgment slip and follow up after 30–60 days.
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⏳ Processing Time
The application is verified by the Social Welfare Department and Revenue Department.
Once verified, the amount is directly transferred to the joint bank account.
Processing may take between 30 to 90 days.
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📞 Contact for Help
If you face any issues during the process, you can contact:
Social Welfare Department Helpdesk:
📞 080-22340956 / 080-22340957
🌐 https://sw.kar.nic.in
District Social Welfare Office (DSWO) – Find your district-specific office address and phone number online.
💡 Tips for Smooth Approval
Apply as early as possible (within 1 year).
Make sure documents are clear and names match across all certificates.
Use a joint bank account where both names are visible.
Save copies of application ID and acknowledgment for tracking.
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🌈 Conclusion
Karnataka’s inter-caste marriage assistance is a progressive step toward a casteless society. The financial aid not only supports newlyweds starting a life together but also encourages others to break social barriers. With the right documents and a smooth application process, eligible couples can avail of this benefit easily.
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