Starting March 1, newlyweds in Xi'an, capital of Shaanxi province, will receive a free 10-yuan scratch-off lottery ticket upon registering their marriage, local authorities announced Monday.

The initiative aims to "send blessings to the newlyweds and promote the welfare lottery," according to the Xi'an Bureau of Civil Affairs. Funds from the lottery support social welfare projects aimed at poverty alleviation.

Couples registering at any bureau in the city will be offered the ticket, with no need for reservations. The official, surnamed Guo, emphasized that accepting the ticket is voluntary.

Following identity verification and certificate presentation, couples can choose whether to receive the ticket.

Guo confirmed the initiative is ongoing, addressing inquiries about a specific end date. While some netizens praised the idea and wished winners luck, others raised questions about potential legal implications regarding any winnings, as well as the source of funding for the tickets.

On Feb 27, a staff member from the Xi'an welfare lottery distribution center clarified that the expenses are covered by the lottery's promotional funds.