Cash reward announced for couples marrying before New Year’s Eve

BEIJING: In an effort to counter falling marriage and birth rates, authorities in China have introduced new incentives for couples marrying before the year ends. A special reward program has been launched in the eastern city of Ningbo, offering vouchers to couples who tie the knot and register their marriage between October 28 and December 31.

According to international media reports, the initiative aims to encourage young people to marry and start families, as the country grapples with record-low marriage numbers. Rising costs of childcare and education have been cited as major factors behind the decline.

The Ningbo Civil Affairs Department confirmed that newlyweds will receive vouchers worth 1,000 yuan, equivalent to roughly Rs 40,000. These vouchers can be used for various wedding-related services, including photography, ceremonies, hotel stays, and other associated expenses. Officials noted that the vouchers are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Similar measures have been rolled out in other cities across eastern China, where authorities are offering cash vouchers through the end of the year to promote marriage.

China’s demographic challenges remain a growing concern. Despite being the world’s second-largest population at approximately 1.4 billion, the country is witnessing rapid aging due to shrinking marriage and birth rates. In response, government bodies have been introducing a series of social policies to nudge young people toward family life.

Last year, colleges and universities were instructed to offer “love education” courses designed to help students develop positive attitudes toward romance, marriage, and family-building, part of broader nationwide efforts to reverse the demographic downturn.