While continuously focussing on building and expanding the logistical infrastructure and all required arrangements for enlarging the facilities for pilgrims, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has taken several initiatives to promote the welfare of erstwhile Baridar families who are residing in and around the Trikuta Hills, the abode of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji. Under one of these initiatives the erstwhile Baridar families are provided financial assistance for celebrating the marriages of their daughters.
In his quarterly report to Governor N. N. Vohra, who is Chairman of the Shrine Board, Sh. A. K. Sahu, Chief Executive Officer, informed that during 2002-16 Rs. 2 crore has been paid to 856 families for the marriages of their daughters.
CEO further informed that the basic financial assistance provided by the Shrine Board for the marriage of a daughter belonging to an erstwhile Baridar family is Rs. 31,000. In case the bride’s father is not alive or she is an orphan the financial assistance is Rs. 41,000 and Rs. 51,000, respectively. In addition, the Board presents 15 suits and 2 chunnies to every bride and has, on this count, spent over Rs. 66 lakh in presenting gifts to 856 brides.
