Srinagar, April 21, 2025 – The Jammu and Kashmir government has disbursed Rs 74.83 crore to 14,965 underprivileged families in the Kashmir division under the State Marriage Assistance Scheme (SMAS) during the 2024–25 financial year, enabling economically disadvantaged households to celebrate marriages with dignity. This impactful social welfare program, lauded as a model of empowerment, supports vulnerable families by alleviating the financial burden of wedding expenses.
Administered by the J&K Department of Social Welfare, the SMAS provides financial aid to families with Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Household (PHH) ration cards for the marriage of eligible girls. Beneficiaries receive Rs 75,000 (AAY) or Rs 50,000 (PHH), transferred directly via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) before the wedding. The scheme has empowered families across districts, with Baramulla leading at 2,318 beneficiaries, followed by Kupwara with 2,149, though Ganderbal trailed with 592 cases.
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to social equity. It ensures that no family is deprived of celebrating a daughter’s marriage due to financial constraints,” said Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The scheme’s focus on women’s empowerment and financial inclusion has resonated widely, earning praise from community leaders and beneficiaries alike. “The assistance has been a game-changer, allowing us to plan weddings without distress,” shared a beneficiary from Kupwara.
The SMAS’s streamlined process, accessible via the Jansugam Portal, has facilitated outreach, though officials acknowledge the need for greater awareness in rural areas. The government is working to enhance application efficiency and expand the scheme’s coverage. Social media platforms, including X, have amplified the initiative’s success, with users calling it “a beacon of hope for underprivileged families” and an “inspiring social reform.”
The disbursement aligns with J&K’s broader welfare agenda, including pension enhancements and free ration programs, as outlined in the 2025–26 budget. By addressing socio-economic challenges, the SMAS not only supports marriages but also strengthens community resilience and gender equality.
For application details or inquiries, visit the J&K Social Welfare Department website or contact the helpline at 0191-2542759.
