Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) is an initiative launched by the Government of India as part of its Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign, (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child). In a world where gender equality remains a significant challenge, such initiatives aimed at uplifting and empowering girls are crucial.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is a small savings scheme designed to secure the future of the girl child financially. In this blog, we will delve into the details of Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, its features, benefits, and how it contributes to the welfare and empowerment of girls in India.
Introduced in 2015, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) is a government scheme promoting the welfare of the girl child. It encourages parents to save for their daughter’s future expenses like education and marriage. Administered by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, SSY operates through designated banks and post offices nationwide. It provides a long-term savings avenue with appealing interest rates and tax benefits, making it an attractive investment option for securing the financial future of girls in India.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Open a Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Account?
- · Guardians can open an account in the name of a girl child below 10 years of age.
- · Only one account per girl child can be opened in India, either at a Post Office or any bank.
- · Families are limited to opening accounts for a maximum of two girls. However, in the case of twins/triplets, more than two accounts can be opened to accommodate each child.
SSY Deposits: Understanding Contribution Guidelines
- · Minimum initial deposit: Rs. 250.
- · Minimum deposit in a FY is Rs. 250 and maximum deposit can be made up to Rs. 1.50 lakh (in multiple of Rs.50) in a FY in lumpsum or in multiple instalments.
- · Deposit can be made maximum up to completion of 15 years from the date of opening.
- · Defaulted accounts: Failure to deposit minimum Rs. 250 in a fiscal year result in account default.
- · Account revival: Defaulted accounts can be revived before 15 years from opening by paying minimum Rs. 250 plus Rs. 50 default fees for each defaulted year.
- · Tax benefits: Deposits qualify for deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
Unlocking Growth: Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Interest Rates and Benefits
- · SSY currently offers an attractive interest rate of 8.2% per annum (Q3 FY 2023-24), making it one of the most attractive small savings schemes in India. This translates to a significant corpus build-up over the long term. The scheme is subject to quarterly revisions by the Ministry of Finance. Minimum initial deposit – Rs. 250.
- · Interest is calculated monthly based on the lowest balance in the account between the close of the fifth day and the end of the month & All interest earned through Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is tax-free under the Income Tax Act
The guardian oversees the account until the girl child reaches the age of majority, which is 18 years.
Withdrawal Guidelines: Navigating Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana’s Financial Flexibility
- · Withdrawals are permitted from the account once the girl child reaches the age of 18 or successfully completes the 10th standard.
- · Withdrawals of up to 50% of the balance available at the end of the previous financial year are allowed.
- · Withdrawals can be made either as a single lump sum or in instalments, with a maximum of one withdrawal per year for up to five years, as long as it does not exceed the specified limit and is based on the actual requirements of fees or other charges
Unlocking Financial Flexibility: Premature Closure Rules for Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
- · The account may be closed prematurely after 5 years under the following circumstances:
- · Upon the death of the account holder, with the Post Office Savings Account interest rate applicable from the date of death to the payment date.
- · Due to extreme compassionate grounds, such as the life-threatening illness of the account holder or the death of the guardian who operated the account.
- · Complete documentation and application are necessary for closure.
- · To close the account prematurely, submit the prescribed application form along with the passbook to the relevant Post Office.
Closure on Maturity
- · After 21 years from the date of opening.
- · At the time of marriage of girl child after attaining age of 18years. (but no closure is allowed before 1 month or after 3 months from the date of marriage)
Understanding the Constraints: Limitations of Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
· Liquidity – SSY imposes a lengthy lock-in period, restricting withdrawals until the girl child reaches 18 years old. This lack of liquidity may present challenges during financial emergencies.
- · No Loan Option – SSY does not provide the option to take loans against the account, unlike some other investment avenues. This absence of borrowing flexibility could be significant during times of urgent financial needs.
- · Interest Rate Fluctuations – The interest rates offered by SSY, although competitive, are subject to change, impacting the overall returns on investment. Investors should consider the potential effects of interest rate fluctuations on their financial planning.
- · Long-term Commitment – SSY requires a long-term commitment, with deposits allowed only until the girl child reaches 15 years of age. This may not align with the investment horizon or goals of all investors.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) stands out as a powerful tool for securing the financial future of your girl child. With its attractive interest rates and government-backed security, SSY offers a safe avenue for long-term wealth accumulation. Do not delay in taking advantage of this opportunity to invest in your child’s future. Contact us today to learn more about how SSY can complement your financial goals and secure a brighter tomorrow for your loved ones. Start investing in your daughter’s dreams with Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana today and schedule a free introductory today to discuss your personalized financial strategy
