In a remarkable example of women-centric workplace policy, Gopal Snacks, one of India’s leading companies in the organised traditional snack sector, continues to strengthen its employee welfare initiatives through its distinctive Kariyavar (Kanya Vivah) bonus scheme. Introduced in 2016, the initiative provides financial support to unmarried women employees at the time of their marriage and has since emerged as a hallmark of the company’s inclusive and people-first culture.
Raj Hadvani, CEO of Gopal Snacks, said, “The Kanya Vivahbonus is our way of showing gratitude to our female employees for their dedication and service. Marriage is an important milestone, and we believe it is our duty to support them emotionally and financially as they begin a new journey.”
Over the past nine years, the company has disbursed approximately Rs.6.96 crore under the scheme, benefitting 506 eligible women employees across its operations. What began in 2016–17 with Rs.24.34 lakh awarded to 30 women has grown steadily in scale and impact, reflecting the organisation’s long-term commitment to supporting women during important life milestones.
The scheme reached its highest-ever milestone in 2024–25, with Rs.2.01 crore disbursed to a record 125 women employees, marking the largest annual beneficiary count since the programme’s inception. During the same year, the highest individual Kariyavar bonus stood at Rs.5.74 lakh, determined by the employee’s tenure and role within the organisation.
Eligible women employees who have completed a minimum of one year of service receive the Kariyavar bonus upon marriage, subject to scheme guidelines. Through this initiative, Gopal Snacks reinforces its belief that meaningful corporate responsibility begins within the workplace by empowering women, recognising their contributions, and supporting them at significant moments in their lives.
The initiative not only reflects Gopal Snacks’ commitment to women’s empowerment
but also highlights the emotional and cultural significance of supporting women during their marriage.
From Rs. 24.34 lakh disbursed to 30 women employees in 2016–17, the programme has expanded steadily over the years. In 2020–21, Rs. 90.29 lakh was awarded to 67 women, reflecting the organisation’s continued focus on supporting women at key life milestones. In 2023–24, 38 women employees received Rs.65.02 lakh, with the highest individual bonus amounting to Rs. 5.45 lakh. The initiative achieved its highest impact in 2024–25, with Rs. 2.01 crore disbursed to a record 125 women employees, the largest number of beneficiaries to date, and the maximum individual bonus reaching Rs.5.74 lakh.
Structured under Gopal Snacks’ Kanya Vivah Yojana policy, the initiative follows a rigorous eligibility process. Eligible employees typically inform HR about their upcoming marriage and submit a formal resignation in advance. The bonus is disbursed at the end of their employment with the company. To make it even more special the cheques are handed over to daughter’s family members by senior management.
The thoughtful initiative aligns with Gopal Snacks’ objective of building an inclusive and supportive workplace culture where women are truly valued.