Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Crosses 4 Crore Accounts: Govt's Targeted Campaign To Spread Awareness

The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), a flagship initiative by the Government of India, has crossed a significant milestone with more than 4.1 crore accounts opened under the scheme. As of November 30, 2024, the total number of girl child accounts stood at 4,10,29,011, reflecting the growing popularity and success of the program. Launched in 2015 as part of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is designed to secure the future of a girl child through financial savings. The scheme offers a high-interest rate, which is currently among the most competitive in India's small savings schemes, making it an attractive option for parents and guardians looking to plan for their daughter's education and marriage. The account offers tax-free returns, making it an appealing choice for families aiming to save for their children's future needs.

The scheme has particularly gained traction among low-income families in rural and semi-urban areas due to its low initial deposit requirement of Rs. 250. Additionally, the scheme offers the flexibility to deposit up to Rs. 1.5 lakh annually, allowing families to save according to their financial capacity.

However, despite the scheme's success, certain states have shown slower progress in the number of accounts opened. To address this issue, the Ministry of Finance has ramped up its promotional efforts. According to the Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Pankaj Chaudhary, the government has launched extensive media campaigns across the country to raise awareness about the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana. These campaigns utilize audio, video, electronic, and print media to reach a wide audience, ensuring that people across all regions are informed about the benefits of the scheme.

In addition to media promotions, the government has also launched targeted campaigns in states where the progress of the scheme has been lagging. These initiatives are aimed at educating the public, especially in rural areas, about the importance of opening accounts for their daughters. Agencies have been tasked with creating awareness and providing information on the easy procedures to open these accounts, which can be done at banks and post offices.

As part of the efforts to boost participation, government agencies have also been working closely with local communities to encourage families to take advantage of the scheme's benefits. These outreach programs have been crucial in addressing gaps in understanding and access to banking services.

With more than 4 crore accounts now opened, the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana stands as a testament to the government's commitment to improving the financial security and future prospects of India’s girl children. The sustained push for awareness and accessibility is expected to further enhance the scheme’s impact across the nation.