The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) is a flagship savings scheme launched by the Government of India in 2015 as part of the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign. It is aimed at promoting the welfare of the girl child by providing financial security for her education and marriage. This scheme offers a high rate of interest, tax benefits, and long-term savings, making it one of the most beneficial options for parents with daughters under the age of 10.
Summary Table: Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana 2025
| Particulars | Details |
| Scheme Name | Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana |
| Launch Year | 2015 |
| Minimum Investment | Rs. 250 |
| Maximum Investment | Rs. 1.5 lakh/year |
| Current Interest Rate (2025) | 8.2% p.a. |
| Maturity | 21 years |
| Investment Period | 15 years |
| Tax Benefits | Section 80C, up to Rs. 1.5 lakh |
| Eligibility | Girl child below 10 years of age |
| Partial Withdrawal | After age 18 or passing class 10 |
| Official Website | India Post |
Key Features of Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
- Launch Year: 2015
- Interest Rate (As of 2025): 8.2% per annum (compounded yearly)
- Minimum Investment: Rs. 250 per annum
- Maximum Investment: Rs. 1.5 lakh per annum
- Maturity Period: 21 years from the date of account opening
- Investment Period: 15 years
- Tax Benefits: Exemption under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act
Eligibility Criteria
- The account can be opened in the name of a girl child below 10 years of age.
- Only one account per girl child is allowed.
- A maximum of two accounts can be opened for two different girl children in one family.
How to Open a Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Account
- Visit a nearby post office or any authorized bank.
- Fill out the SSY account opening form.
- Submit the following documents:
- Birth certificate of the girl child
- Address proof of the parent/guardian
- Identity proof of the parent/guardian
- Deposit the initial amount (minimum Rs. 250).
- Once processed, the passbook will be issued.
Investment and Returns
- The investment in this scheme can be made through cash, cheque, demand draft, or online transfer.
- Returns are guaranteed as they are backed by the Government of India.
- The interest is compounded annually and credited at the end of each financial year.
- The interest rate is subject to quarterly revisions by the Ministry of Finance.
Withdrawal and Maturity Guidelines
- Partial withdrawals of up to 50% of the balance are allowed after the girl turns 18 or passes the 10th standard, whichever is earlier.
- The account matures after 21 years or at the time of the girl’s marriage (after 18 years of age).
- No interest is paid after maturity if the account is not closed.
Benefits of Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
- High Interest Rate: Among the highest among government-backed savings schemes.
- Tax Exemption: Offers tax deductions under Section 80C up to Rs. 1.5 lakh annually.
- Risk-Free Investment: Since it is backed by the government, it is extremely safe.
- Encourages Saving Habit: Long-term planning for the girl child.
- Flexibility: Low minimum investment makes it accessible to all income groups.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana vs Other Saving Schemes
| Scheme | Interest Rate | Tax Benefits | Lock-in Period | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana | 8.2% | Yes (80C) | 21 Years | Very High |
| Public Provident Fund (PPF) | 7.1% | Yes (80C) | 15 Years | Very High |
| Fixed Deposit (FD) | 6% – 7% | Partial | Varies | Moderate |
| Recurring Deposit (RD) | 5% – 6.5% | No | Varies | Moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I open more than one Sukanya Samriddhi account for the same daughter?
Ans. No, only one account per girl child is allowed under this scheme.
Q2. What happens if I miss a year’s payment?
Ans. A penalty of Rs. 50 is charged to reactivate the account, along with the minimum yearly deposit.
Q3. Can the account be transferred?
Ans. Yes, the account can be transferred from one bank/post office to another anywhere in India.
Q4. Is premature closure allowed?
Ans. Premature closure is allowed only in cases of death of the account holder or under extreme compassionate grounds.
Q5. Can NRIs invest in Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana?
Ans. No, only Indian residents are eligible to invest in this scheme.
Conclusion
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is more than just a savings plan; it is a commitment to your daughter’s bright and independent future. With attractive interest rates, guaranteed returns, and tax benefits, it is one of the best long-term investment options available to parents today. By starting early, you can ensure that your daughter’s dreams are never limited by financial constraints.
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