The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), launched under the “Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter” campaign, has turned 11 year and has won the trust of millions of families. Launched on January 22, 2015, this scheme is not just a savings account, but a path to financial independence for the daughters of the country.
Currently, with an excellent interest rate of 8.2% and triple tax exemption, this scheme has emerged as the safest and most profitable investment option for middle-class families. In this special article, we will tell you how you can create a large fund for your daughter with a small investment and what rules and documents need to be followed.
11 Years of Unparalleled Journey
The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana has brought about a revolutionary change in people’s thinking, from cities to villages. Today, parents begin planning for their daughter’s education and future as soon as they are born. As of January 2026, over 45.3 million accounts have been opened under this scheme, and total deposits have exceeded ₹3.33 lakh crore.
These figures prove that Indian parents are now more aware and responsible about their daughters’ future than ever before. This scheme not only inculcates the habit of saving but also provides a solid foundation for their economic empowerment in society.
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Key Features and Eligibility
This scheme is specifically designed to meet the long-term needs of daughters. To open an account, a daughter must be between birth and 10 years of age. Only one account can be opened in a daughter’s name, and a maximum of two daughters in a family can benefit from it (special exemptions are available for twins or triplets).
The account is opened by the daughter’s parents or legal guardians, but the daughter can operate her account on her own after attaining the age of 18. This arrangement ensures that the daughter can become self-reliant for her financial needs upon reaching adulthood.
How will your money grow
Investing in the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is very flexible and easy. You can deposit a minimum of ₹250 and a maximum of ₹1.5 lakh in a financial year. You must continue investing for a total of 15 years from the date of account opening. Currently, the government offers an annual interest rate of 8.2%, which is much more attractive than other options like bank FDs and PPF.
Most importantly, the interest earned on this scheme is compounded annually, allowing your small deposit to grow into a substantial fund over time. This long-term investment becomes a significant support in old age or for higher education due to the power of compounding.
When and how will you receive the money
The maturity period for this scheme is 21 years, meaning the entire amount can be withdrawn 21 years after opening the account. However, keeping in mind the daughter’s needs, the government has also provided withdrawal options. When the daughter turns 18 or passes the 10th grade, 50% of the total amount deposited in the account can be withdrawn for her higher education.
Furthermore, if the daughter’s marriage is fixed after the age of 18, the account can be closed prematurely, and the entire amount can be withdrawn. Tax-wise, it falls under the ‘Exempt-Exempt-Exempt’ (EEE) category, meaning that the investment, interest, and maturity are all tax-free.
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Required Documents and Procedure for Account Opening
You can easily open a Sukanya Samriddhi Account by visiting your nearest post office or any authorized government/private bank. You will need a few basic documents, the most essential of which is the daughter’s birth certificate. Additionally, photocopies of the guardian’s Aadhaar card, PAN card, and residence certificate are required.
Passport-size photographs of the daughter and guardian, along with Form 60 (if a PAN card is not available), may also be required upon application. Once the form is submitted and verified, this secure investment for your daughter’s future will begin in her name.