From Social Opposition to a Happy Family: How Inter-Caste Marriage Incentive Support Helped ASHOK and SABITA Build a Stable Life

The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment highlighted the Inter‑Caste Marriage Incentive through the story of Ashok Kumar Samantaray (33, General category) and Sabita Das (30, Kaibarta SC) from Khordha district, Odisha. Facing strong family and community opposition, the couple married and received ₹2.5 lakh financial assistance under the scheme. The aid provided financial relief, helped them save for their daughter’s education, and contributed to a gradual shift in community attitudes, enabling them to lead a stable, happy family life.