Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), a small savings scheme for the girl child, completed 11 years on 22 January 2026. Launched in 2015 under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign, the scheme aims to support education and future financial needs of daughters through long-term, government-backed savings. It has become one of the most important household savings instruments linked to women’s empowerment and social inclusion.
Scheme Objective
SSY was designed to encourage families to save for a girl child’s education and marriage expenses. It promotes early financial planning and helps improve the status of the girl child in society. The scheme also supports the broader goal of gender equality by linking savings with social change.
Key Features
- The account can be opened by parents or legal guardians for a girl child below 10 years of age.
- Only one account is allowed per girl child, and a family can open accounts for up to two girl children, with exceptions for twins or triplets.
- The minimum deposit is ₹250 in a financial year, while the maximum annual deposit is ₹1.5 lakh.
- Deposits earn interest at a government-notified rate. The current rate is 8.2% per annum.
- Deposits qualify for tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
Account Operation And Withdrawal
The account is operated by the guardian until the girl child turns 18. After that, she can manage it herself. Partial withdrawal of up to 50% of the balance is allowed for higher education after the account holder turns 18 or passes Class 10, whichever is earlier. The account matures after 21 years from the date of opening. Premature closure is allowed only in limited cases, such as marriage or death of the account holder.
Scale And Significance
Since its launch, SSY has seen wide adoption across India. Over 4.53 crore accounts have been opened, and total deposits have crossed ₹3.33 lakh crore as of December 2025. The scheme remains a major example of a targeted small savings programme with both financial and social impact.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026