Government Scheme for Indian Women Deserted by Their Overseas Indian Spouses – Guidance from Legal Light Consulting
Marriages with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) or foreign spouses can sometimes lead to unfortunate outcomes where Indian women face abandonment, fraudulent marriages, or one-sided divorce proceedings abroad.
Recognizing the seriousness of this issue, the Government of India introduced a welfare scheme to support such women through Indian Missions abroad, in collaboration with empanelled NGOs and community associations.
At Legal Light Consulting (LLC Lawyer), Delhi’s leading law firm specializing in NRI family disputes, we assist deserted women in understanding their rights under this scheme and provide legal support to ensure they can access justice.
Objective of the Scheme
The scheme’s main objective is to provide financial and legal assistance to women of Indian origin who:
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Have been deserted by their overseas Indian spouses, or
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Are facing divorce proceedings in a foreign country.
This support is offered through Indian Embassies and Consulates abroad, ensuring that women have immediate access to legal remedies in the country where they are struggling.
Who is Eligible?
Eligibility under the scheme is clearly defined to ensure that assistance reaches genuine cases. A woman may apply if:
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She holds a valid Indian passport.
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Her marriage was solemnized either in India or overseas with an overseas Indian or foreigner.
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She was deserted in India or abroad within 15 years of marriage; OR
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Divorce proceedings are initiated within 15 years of marriage by her NRI/foreigner husband; OR
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Her NRI/foreigner husband obtained an ex-parte divorce abroad within 20 years of marriage, and she needs to file a case for maintenance or alimony.
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The scheme is not available to women with a criminal conviction against them, except in cases involving parental child abduction, where custody has not been legally decided.
Understanding “Parental Child Abduction” in This Context
Definition
Unauthorized custody of the child by the mother without the other parent’s consent, contrary to family law rulings, restricting access to the other parent.
International Child Abduction
Occurs when a parent or relative unlawfully takes or retains a child abroad in violation of a custody order.
If a criminal charge of parental child abduction is framed against the mother, it does not automatically bar her from seeking relief under this scheme if custody matters remain undecided.
Other Key Features
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Domicile Irrelevant: The woman’s place of residence (India or abroad) does not affect eligibility.
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Preference for Financial Need: Applicants with weaker financial capacity will be prioritized.
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Direct Assistance:
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Legal and other costs are paid directly to the empanelled legal counsel by the concerned Indian Mission/Post.
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Assistance can also be routed through Indian Community Associations, Women’s organizations, or NGOs supporting the applicant.
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Financial Limits:
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Up to US $3,000 per case for developed countries.
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Up to US $2,000 per case for developing countries.
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Coverage Includes: Documentation, legal filing, and preparatory expenses to ensure the deserted woman can effectively pursue her case abroad.
How Legal Light Consulting Can Help
At Legal Light Consulting (LLC Lawyer), we provide comprehensive support to women deserted by their overseas Indian spouses by:
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Assisting in eligibility assessment and preparing applications under the scheme.
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Coordinating with Indian Embassies/Consulates to ensure timely financial and legal aid.
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Connecting clients with empanelled legal counsel abroad for divorce, maintenance, or child custody cases.
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Filing cases in Indian courts under 498A IPC (cruelty), maintenance, and domestic violence laws.
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Helping in evidence collection, documentation, and attestation for use in foreign courts.
We represent women across North America (USA & Canada), GCC Countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain), Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America, ensuring cross-border legal protection.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
The Government’s welfare scheme is a vital support system for Indian women abandoned by their overseas spouses, but navigating its eligibility and paperwork can be overwhelming.
At Legal Light Consulting, we combine legal expertise, embassy coordination, and global networks to ensure that women receive the support and justice they deserve.
If you or someone you know has been deserted by an overseas spouse, don’t wait. Contact Legal Light Consulting today for a confidential consultation. Our team is here to help you reclaim your rights, dignity, and future—with clarity, compassion, and legal strength.
📞 If you or someone you know is facing abandonment by an NRI spouse, contact Legal Light Consulting for confidential legal guidance today
