Uttar Pradesh Govt Aims To Support Over 1 Lakh Mass Marriages In 2025 With ₹1 Lakh Aid Per Couple, Tightens Monitoring For Transparency

Lucknow: A significant state initiative focused on empowering daughters from economically weaker sections is being enhanced for greater transparency and efficiency. The program has set an ambitious target to solemnize the marriages of over one lakh couples in 2025, with a comprehensive strategy involving strict monitoring and technological integration to reach eligible beneficiaries.

Following an increase in financial assistance, authorities have directed further strengthening of the scheme’s oversight mechanisms. From the financial year 2025–26, the program will allocate ₹1 lakh per couple. This initiative is viewed not just as a marriage program, but as a vital step towards promoting social dignity, transparency, and empowerment for underprivileged communities.

A state official overseeing social welfare indicated that the scheme is being simplified and streamlined through technology to ensure benefits reach genuine recipients. Every step, from application to the distribution of materials, is being brought under digital surveillance.

Special arrangements are also in place to ensure the quality and proper distribution of gifts. To curb irregularities, firm selection will now occur at a centralized directorate level rather than individual districts. To bolster transparency and accountability in the mass marriage events, a system of inter-district observers has been introduced.

Social Welfare Officers from one district will be assigned as observers to another, and the presence of divisional and district social welfare officials will be mandatory at all wedding events. These observers will report directly to higher authorities to ensure real-time supervision.

Additionally, accountability will be fixed for officials if negligence in Aadhaar verification is found, and biometric presence of both the bride and groom at the venue will become mandatory to prevent fraudulent activities.

District officials have been clearly instructed to prepare beneficiary lists promptly and conduct dedicated campaigns to ensure all deserving individuals benefit.

Authorities are directed to verify applications accurately across all districts, collaborating with local bodies, gram panchayats, and anganwadi centers to identify eligible couples. The department aims to conduct mass weddings for approximately one lakh couples this year, viewing this as an effort to foster collective cooperation and respect for women.