The Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme is a government-backed savings scheme in India, aimed at encouraging parents to save for their daughters' future education and marriage expenses. Launched as part of the "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" campaign, it offers attractive interest rates and tax benefits. Here are some key features and benefits of the Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme:
### Key Features
1. **Eligibility**:
- The account can be opened for a girl child up to the age of 10 years.
- Only one account per girl child is allowed, and a maximum of two accounts per family is permissible.
2. **Deposit Limits**:
- The minimum annual deposit is ₹250.
- The maximum deposit limit per financial year is ₹1.5 lakh.
3. **Interest Rate**:
- The interest rate is revised quarterly by the government. It has historically been higher compared to other small savings schemes.
4. **Tenure**:
- The account matures 21 years from the date of opening.
- Contributions are required for the first 15 years, after which the account continues to earn interest until maturity.
5. **Partial Withdrawal**:
- Partial withdrawal up to 50% of the balance is allowed for higher education expenses after the account holder turns 18 years old.
6. **Premature Closure**:
- Premature closure of the account is allowed in certain circumstances such as the death of the account holder, life-threatening diseases, or other specific conditions approved by the government.
### Tax Benefits
1. **Exemptions**:
- Contributions to the Sukanya Samriddhi Account are eligible for tax deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
- The interest earned and the maturity amount are tax-free.
### How to Open an Account
1. **Where to Open**:
- The account can be opened at any authorized bank or post office.
2. **Required Documents**:
- Birth certificate of the girl child.
- Proof of identity and address of the parent/guardian.
- A recent photograph of the child and parent/guardian.
The Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme is designed to provide a secure future for girl children by encouraging disciplined savings and financial planning for their education and marriage needs.
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