by Jeremy Page

The Government hopes that its offer of £580 will help to break an unjust hierarchy

THE Indian Government is offering 50,000 rupees (£580) to higher-caste people who marry spouses from the lowest castes in its latest controversial effort to dismantle the ancient Hindu social hierarchy.

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment made the proposal yesterday amid a growing controversy over plans to expand quotas for lower-caste students at schools and universities.

The scheme is already under attack, with conservatives saying it will trigger social chaos and liberals arguing that few will accept the offer — and fewer will receive the funds.

The proposed bonus is a small fortune in a country where average annual income per capita is £280, and where official corruption is rampant.
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