PANAJI
The State government has extended the Laadli Laxmi scheme benefits to orphaned and destitute girls, as well as those affected by the Tillari Irrigation Project. The amendment to the scheme has been notified while the existing eligibility conditions remain unchanged.
As per the notification, applications received on behalf of girls who are orphaned, destitute, born outside wedlock, adopted, or fall under any category aligned with the scheme’s objective will be referred to the Committee -- headed by the Secretary of Women and Child Development. This will be subject to the application made by a guardian or an institution/organisation responsible for the girl’s care.
“If the applicant fulfils the criteria and has submitted all documents required as per the scheme but is unable to furnish her parents' documents due to the death of both parents, such an application shall be sanctioned if the applicant submits her 15 years of residence certificate and birth certificate along with the death certificates of both parents. Submission of parental income certificate in case of such applicants shall be waived off,” it said.
In cases where applicants are unable to produce documents related to their parents’ birth or residence due to parental opposition to their marriage, such applications will also be placed before the Committee for a decision.
In the case of applicants affected by the Tillari Irrigation Project -- a joint initiative of the Governments of Goa and Maharashtra -- who have been rehabilitated in Goa, their applications will be sanctioned if they produce a certificate issued by the North Goa Collector. This certificate should confirm the relaxation of the 10-15 years domicile requirement for their family.
The notification also extends the tenure to apply for the scheme from six months to one year.
The notification stated that the objective of the scheme is to ensure that girls are not viewed as a financial burden on their parents or guardians at the time of marriage. “However, this scheme should not be construed or misunderstood as an encouragement to the practice of giving dowry in any way,” it clarified.
The scheme applies to married applicants between the ages of 18 and 45 years. Eligible beneficiaries under the scheme are entitled to financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh, which is directly transferred into their bank accounts by the department.
