Lucknow: The UP government's 'Shaadi Anudan Yojana' disbursed marriage grants to 1 lakh OBC families in FY2024-25, doubling last year's 55,551 beneficiaries. While officials attribute this growth to raising the income eligibility limit to ₹1 lakh, ground reports indicate systemic delays in fund disbursement.
The Backward Classes Welfare Department's budget saw a 19% increase to ₹2,789.71 crore. However, beneficiaries in rural districts report 4-6 month processing times, with many forced to borrow money while awaiting grants.
The scheme's standardized urban-rural criteria has improved access, but verification bottlenecks remain – 23% applications were reportedly rejected in 2024 due to documentation issues. While the program's budget has grown 116% since 2017, reaching `14,969 crore, its effectiveness is under scrutiny.
A 2024 Social Audit revealed only 68% of recipients received funds before wedding dates. The department plans awareness campaigns to improve last-mile delivery, acknowledging the need for streamlined processes to achieve its inclusive development goals.
