Uttar Pradesh Government Announces Significant Boost in Social Welfare Budget
The Uttar Pradesh government has made a substantial allocation of Rs14,953 crore for various social welfare schemes in the state. This represents a notable increase of 8% over the budget allocation for the 2025-26 financial year, reflecting the administration's commitment to enhancing support for vulnerable populations.
Major Increase in CM Mass Marriage Scheme Funding
A significant portion of this budget rise can be attributed to the doubling of the allocation under the Chief Minister's mass marriage scheme. From the upcoming financial year, the government will issue Rs1.01 lakh per couple, which is an increase of Rs1,000 per couple over the previous increment implemented in May 2025.
An official from the Department of Social Welfare provided detailed insights into the scheme's evolution. "In the previous budget, the allocation was based on Rs51,000 per couple," he explained. "In May of that year, the amount was increased to Rs1 lakh, necessitating additional funds through the supplementary budget. This allocation included a direct transfer of Rs60,000 into the bride's account, Rs25,000 for purchasing wedding goods, and Rs15,000 for making necessary arrangements."
The additional Rs1,000 will be adjusted under one of these three categories and will be disbursed following a new notification issued by the department. The budget has earmarked a total of Rs750 crore specifically for this mass marriage initiative.
Enhanced Pension Allocations for Elderly and Farmers
The budget also includes a substantial allocation of Rs8,950 crore for the payment of old age pensions and farmers' pensions. Currently, approximately 67.5 lakh pensioners receive Rs1,000 per month under these two critical schemes, providing essential financial support to senior citizens and agricultural workers across the state.
Additional Support for Marginalized Communities
In a move to further assist underprivileged sections of society, the government has allocated Rs100 crore for a scheme funding the marriages of poor girls from Scheduled Caste families. An additional Rs50 crore has been set aside for supporting the marriages of poor girls from the general category, ensuring broader inclusivity in social welfare measures.
Scholarship Funding for General Category Students
Furthermore, the budget features an additional allocation of Rs950 crore dedicated to scholarships for students from the general category. This investment aims to promote educational opportunities and reduce financial barriers for aspiring learners throughout Uttar Pradesh.
These comprehensive allocations underscore the state government's focused approach to strengthening social safety nets and supporting community development through targeted financial interventions.
