Introduction The Government of Odisha launched the Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana on 3 February 2026 as a dedicated marriage assistance scheme for economically weaker families in the state. This scheme has been introduced to address serious social concerns such as child marriage and dowry practices, while also encouraging widow remarriage. Through structured financial support, the government aims to ensure that daughters from low-income households can have a dignified and lawful marriage without placing a heavy financial burden on their families. The programme is being implemented by the Department of Women and Child Development Odisha and will continue for five financial years from 2025-26 to 2029-30. Under this initiative, the state government provides total assistance of Rs. 60,000 per eligible couple. Out of this amount, Rs. 45,000 is directly transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account after marriage registration, while the remaining amount is used for essential wedding items and ceremony arrangements under a community marriage format. Girls belonging to low-income families, including widows seeking remarriage, can apply for benefits under this scheme, subject to fulfilling age, income, and residency conditions. The application process is conducted through Anganwadi Workers and verified by district-level authorities before final approval. Benefits Eligible beneficiaries under Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana receive structured financial support in the following manner :- Total Assistance: Rs. 60,000 per couple Rs. 45,000 transferred directly to the beneficiary’s bank account within 7 days after successful marriage registration. Rs. 10,000 allocated towards traditional wedding essentials such as saree, bangles, anklets, toe rings and other household items. Rs. 5,000 used for logistics, decoration, refreshments, seating and overall ceremony management. Key highlights :- Marriages are organised in a community/mass ceremony format. Only one eligible girl per family can avail the benefit. The scheme promotes safe, lawful and socially responsible marriages. Eligibility To receive financial assistance under this scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions :- Bride and groom must be permanent residents of Odisha. Bride’s age should be between 18 to 35 years. Groom’s age should be between 21 to 35 years. The bride must belong to a low-income family. Widow remarriage cases are eligible. Only one girl per family can receive benefits. The family must not be receiving benefits under any other state or central government marriage assistance scheme. Priority is given to :- Widows seeking remarriage. Persons with disabilities. Scheduled Tribe (ST), Scheduled Caste (SC), and PVTG communities. Economically weaker households. Documents Applicants are required to submit the following documents along with the application form :- Aadhaar Card of Bride. Aadhaar Card of Groom. Income Certificate. Mobile Number. Affidavit. Passport-size photographs. Bank account details. (Passbook copy) Disability Certificate. (if applicable) Caste Certificate. (if applicable) Husband’s Death Certificate. (for widow applicants) Class 10 Marksheet or valid age proof. All documents must be valid and properly verified before submission. Process to Apply The application process under Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana follows an organised administrative procedure :- The implementing agency conducts awareness drives and community outreach programmes. Eligible beneficiaries are identified as per scheme guidelines. Required documents are collected from shortlisted applicants. The application form is filled with the assistance of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs). Initial verification is conducted by officials of the implementing agency. The verified list is forwarded to the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO). The District Level Committee, headed by the District Collector, grants final approval. Selected couples receive confirmation via their registered mobile number. The implementing agency schedules the group marriage ceremony in coordination with concerned officials. The marriage registrar verifies each couple at the venue. Marriage certificate copies must be submitted to CDPO and DSWO. Rs. 45,000 is transferred directly to the beneficiary’s bank account within the stipulated time. Important Links Official Website of Women and Child Development Department. Contact For any clarification or assistance regarding Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana, applicants may contact :- District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) of their respective district. Helpline details and official contact numbers are available on the website of the Department of Women and Child Development Odisha.