The Uttar Pradesh government has announced a major relief for low-income families in its 2026–27 state budget.
Under the updated Chief Minister’s Mass Marriage Scheme, eligible families can now receive up to ₹1.01 lakh to help cover wedding expenses for their daughters.
Earlier, the assistance was around ₹51,000.
The aim is simple — reduce the financial burden of weddings and support dignified, simple ceremonies.
Financial Help Almost Doubled
In India, wedding expenses can put heavy pressure on families with limited income.
Many households struggle with costs related to clothing, gifts, and basic arrangements.
By increasing the aid to ₹1.01 lakh, the state government hopes to ease this stress and prevent families from falling into debt.
For the financial year 2026–27, the government has allocated around ₹750 crore to support mass marriages across urban and rural areas.
How the Scheme Works
The assistance is meant for families earning roughly less than ₹2 lakh annually, though exact eligibility depends on official guidelines.
Here is how the amount is distributed:
Around ₹60,000 is directly transferred to the bride’s bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
About ₹25,000 is set aside for essential wedding items such as clothes and gifts.
Nearly ₹15,000 is used for basic wedding arrangements like venue and catering under the mass marriage programme.
Mass marriage events are organised by the state to promote simple celebrations and discourage dowry practices.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the scheme:
The bride must be at least 18 years old.
The groom must be at least 21 years old.
The family must fall under the specified income limit.
Applications can usually be submitted online or through local social welfare offices, depending on government instructions.
Why This Step Is Important
For many economically weaker families, wedding costs can create long-term financial problems.
By increasing the financial assistance, Uttar Pradesh aims to reduce economic stress and promote social welfare.
Similar initiatives exist in other states, such as Kalyana Lakshmi in Telangana, which also provides wedding support to eligible families.
With this budget decision, the state government is sending a clear message — weddings should be a moment of joy, not a financial burden.
