In its recently unveiled 2026-27 state budget, the Uttar Pradesh government has significantly increased financial support for low-income families to help cover the cost of their daughters’ weddings. Under the updated Chief Minister’s Mass Marriage Scheme, eligible households can now receive up to ₹1.01 lakh — nearly double the previous amount — to reduce the burden of ceremony expenses.
The move aims to make weddings more affordable for families with limited means. Traditionally, wedding costs in India can be a major financial strain, especially for households with modest incomes. By boosting assistance from around ₹51,000 earlier to ₹1.01 lakh, the Uttar Pradesh government hopes to ease this pressure and support dignified, simple celebrations.
How the Scheme Works
The enhanced aid is directed at low-income families, typically defined as those earning less than ₹2 lakh annually, although specific income criteria may vary with official notifications and eligibility checks.
Under the scheme:
- A portion of the aid — roughly ₹60,000 — is transferred directly into the bride’s bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
- Around ₹25,000 is earmarked for essential wedding goods, clothing and gifts.
- Approximately ₹15,000 supports wedding arrangements such as venue logistics, catering or basic services provided through the mass marriage function.
Mass marriage ceremonies have long been used by the state government to curb dowry demands and promote community-based celebrations. The government allocates significant funds each year — around ₹750 crore in the 2026-27 budget — to support thousands of marriages across urban and rural areas.
Who Can Benefit
To qualify for the enhanced aid:
- The bride must be at least 18 years old and the groom at least 21 years old, in line with legal marriage age norms.
- Families must meet the annual income threshold; those earning below roughly ₹2 lakh are eligible for the ₹1 lakh support.
- Applications can typically be submitted online or at local social welfare offices, though final procedures will be notified by the state government.
Why This Matters
Weddings in India often come with high cost pressures, and for economically weaker families, this can lead to debt or compromised celebrations. By bolstering the financial aid available, Uttar Pradesh’s budget move seeks to ease economic stress, encourage simple ceremonies, and promote social well-being among its residents.
This expanded assistance echoes similar marriage aid initiatives in other states, such as Telangana’s Kalyana Lakshmi scheme, which also provides financial support for wedding costs among eligible brides.
