Hyderabad, March 19: The benefit of 'Kalyana Lakshmi' or 'Shaadi Mubarak' scheme, initiated by the Telangana government in 2014, has been increased to Rs 1,00,116, Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao said on Monday. "Today (Monday), through this House, I want to convey good news that the amount given in the marriage of girl child through the Kalyana Lakshmi or Shaadi Mubarak scheme has been enhanced from Rs 75,116 to Rs 1,00,116," the Chief Minister said.

According to him, the tradition of marrying daughters off can become a burden for parents and the scheme uplifts the girl child and their parents from financial distress. The Chief Minister said the scheme initiated on October 2, 2014, which is close to his heart, has till now benefited at least 3, 60,000 people.

Kalyana Lakshmi/Shaadi Mubarak scheme benefits females above 18 years of age and applies to all sections of society. The scheme also helps to eliminate child marriages in the state, a statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office said. The Chief Minister in the statement said he was confident that his decision would be applauded by the girl child, their parents and that with their blessings the government was carving Telangana as the welfare state.