Introduction:
The Karnataka Labour Department’s Marriage Assistance Scheme, administered by the Karnataka Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (KBOCWWB), is a significant welfare initiative aimed at providing financial support to registered construction workers for marriage-related expenses. This scheme underscores the state’s commitment to the social welfare of its labor force, particularly those engaged in the unorganized construction sector.
Overview of the Scheme
The Marriage Assistance Scheme offers a financial grant of ₹60,000 to eligible construction workers. This assistance can be utilized for the worker’s own marriage or for the marriages of up to two dependent children. The primary objective is to alleviate the financial burden associated with marriage ceremonies, ensuring that workers and their families can celebrate these significant life events without undue economic stress.
Eligibility Criteria
To benefit from this scheme, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Registration: The applicant must be a registered construction worker under the KBOCWWB.
- Membership Duration: The worker should have been a member of the Board for at least one year prior to the date of marriage.
- Work Experience: The applicant must have engaged in construction work for a minimum of 90 days in the preceding year
- Marital Status: The scheme is applicable only for the first marriage of the worker or their dependent children.
- Family Limit: A maximum of two claims can be made per family, regardless of the number of registered workers within the family.
- Residency: The applicant must be a domicile of Karnataka, and the marriage should take place within the state.
Application Process
Applicants can choose between online and offline modes to apply:
- Online Application:
- Visit the official KBOCWWB website: https://kbocwwb.karnataka.gov.in/
- Register as a new construction worker or log in using existing credentials.
- Navigate to the ‘Schemes’ section and select ‘Marriage Assistance’.
- Fill in the required details and upload the necessary documents.
- Submit the application and note the acknowledgment number for future reference.
- Offline Application:
- Visit the nearest Labour Department office or Welfare Board office.
- Obtain the application form for the Marriage Assistance Scheme.
- Fill in the form with accurate details and attach the required documents.
- Submit the completed application to the designated officer.
Required Documents
Applicants need to furnish the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card (self-attested)
- Bank account details
- Marriage certificate
- Marriage invitation card
- Affidavit (if the marriage took place outside Karnataka)
- Proof of age for the bride and groom
- Employment certificate or proof of 90 days of construction work
- Beneficiary ID card issued by the KBOCWWB
Important Considerations
- Applications must be submitted within six months of the marriage date.
- The scheme is strictly for the first marriage; subsequent marriages are not eligible.
- Only one claim is permissible per marriage, even if multiple family members are registered workers.
- Applicants must ensure that their registration with the KBOCWWB is active and renewed every three years to remain eligible for benefits.
Conclusion
The Karnataka Labour Department’s Marriage Assistance Scheme is a commendable effort to support construction workers in managing significant life events. By providing financial assistance, the scheme not only eases the economic burden on workers but also promotes social welfare and inclusivity. Eligible workers are encouraged to take advantage of this scheme to ensure a dignified and joyous celebration of marital unions within their families.
