Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: How the Scheme Has Transformed Girls’ Financial Security Over the Last 10 Years

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) has grown into one of India’s most trusted small-saving schemes since its launch a decade ago. Introduced under the government’s Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative, the scheme was designed to support the long-term welfare, education and financial security of girl children. Over the past ten years, SSY has not only expanded dramatically but has also become a key pillar of household financial planning for millions of families.

Today, the scheme has crossed a significant milestone with more than 4 crore accounts opened nationwide and deposits amounting to nearly ₹3.25 lakh crore. Backed by the Government of India, the scheme offers guaranteed returns, zero risk and attractive tax benefits, making it one of the most preferred investment choices for parents of daughters.

A Decade of Growth: What Has Changed?

In the last 10 years, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana has transformed from a new savings idea to a nationwide financial safety net for girls. The scheme’s rising popularity can be attributed to multiple factors:

1. Wider Adoption Across the Country

From metro cities to remote villages, SSY accounts have been opened by families from all income groups. Awareness campaigns and high trust in government-backed schemes helped SSY reach even those who traditionally avoided formal financial products.

2. Strong Returns With Government Assurance

SSY currently offers an interest rate of 8.2%, which is among the highest in small-saving instruments. Combined with sovereign guarantee, the scheme provides a stable, risk-free avenue for long-term growth. This has been a major draw for parents who want assured returns for their daughters’ future needs.

3. Tax Benefits Under Section 80C

One of the reasons the scheme gained momentum is its favourable taxation structure. Contributions are eligible for deductions under Section 80C, and the maturity amount is completely tax-free. This "Triple E" status (Exempt–Exempt–Exempt) ensures maximum savings for investors.

4. Convenience and Flexibility in Deposits

Parents can start with small deposits and gradually build a substantial corpus. Whether it’s for education expenses, skill development, marriage or other future needs, the scheme allows families to accumulate long-term savings without financial strain.

A Powerful Financial Shield for the Girl Child

What began as a targeted welfare scheme is now India’s largest dedicated financial safety mechanism for girls. Beyond numbers and interest rates, SSY has played a deeper role:

• It encourages long-term financial planning within families.

• It ensures that daughters have a reliable financial foundation as they grow.

• It reduces the burden of future expenses on parents.

• It promotes gender-focused financial inclusion.

Over a decade, SSY has shifted the mindset from short-term savings to structured, disciplined investment for a girl’s future. Parents now view it not just as a deposit scheme but as a reliable path to providing opportunities and security for their daughters.

A Future-Proof Plan With Zero Risk

Unlike market-linked options, SSY carries no volatility. The returns are fixed, capital is safe, and the entire process—from opening an account to maturity—is regulated by the government. This assurance has been central to its acceptance among millions of households.

With increasing education costs and rising financial responsibilities, SSY offers families a dependable way to prepare for future expenses without fear of risk or loss.

A Decade Later: More Than Just a Savings Scheme

In just 10 years, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana has become far more than a government savings plan—it is now the largest financial trust network created for the welfare of girl children in India. Its rapid expansion, unmatched safety, high returns and tax advantages have turned it into a foundational financial instrument for secure futures.

As the scheme enters its next decade, its role is expected to grow stronger, ensuring that millions of girls across the country continue to benefit from stable, guaranteed financial protection.