Loan scheme to promote dowry-free weddings launched

In a novel method to promote dowry-free marriages, Kerala co-operative department has launched a scheme to provide low-interest loans through co-operative banks to parents to meet wedding expenses of girls from poor families.

As part of the scheme, a co-operative society called “Mangalya Sutra” was launched by state cooperation minister G Sudhakaran here yesterday.

The scheme was part of the LDF government’s efforts to root out the practice of giving and taking dowry, which cast a burden on the poorer sections in the society.

To start with, up to Rs25,000 would be provided on 4% interest to help poor women get married, on condition that the beneficiaries would not give dowry to marry off their daughters.

The loan would be provided without any security other than the affidavit by the would-be bride and groom, stating that that their families were not giving or taking any form of dowry. It should be certified by the elected member of the civic body of the respective area.

“The loans under Mangalya Sutra will be arranged through cooperative banks,” Sudhakaran said.