In a commendable effort to empower and secure the future of girl children, the Indian government has introduced various schemes and investment options. These initiatives aim to provide financial stability, educational support, and opportunities for growth. Here, we highlight three prominent government-run schemes that stand out as excellent choices to secure a girl child’s future.
- Sukanya Samridhi Yojana
Sukanya Samridhi Yojana is a government-backed small savings scheme specifically designed for daughters. Parents can open a Sukanya Samridhi Account anytime after the birth of a girl child until she reaches the age of 10. The scheme requires a minimum annual deposit of Rs 250, with a maximum limit of Rs 1.5 lakhs per year. The account remains active for 21 years from the date of opening or until the girl’s marriage after turning 18. After reaching adulthood, partial withdrawals, up to 50% of the balance, are permitted for higher education expenses.
For the January-March quarter, SSY offers an attractive interest rate of 8.2%. It’s important to note that the interest rate is revised by the union government every quarter.
- Balika Samridhi Yojana
Balika Samridhi Yojana is targeted towards girls and children from families below the poverty line (BPL). The scheme provides financial assistance at various stages of a girl’s education, offering scholarships based on the girl’s class level. Starting with Rs 500 post-birth, the annual scholarship amount increases as the girl progresses through her education.
- Class I-III: Rs 300 per annum
- Class IV: Rs 500 per annum
- Class V: Rs 600 per annum
- Class VI-VII: Rs 700 per annum
- Class VIII: Rs 800 per annum
- Class IX-X: Rs 1,000 per annum
- UDAAN CBSE Scholarship Program
Initiated by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) under the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), UDAAN aims to bridge the gender gap in prestigious engineering institutes. Eligible candidates include girls studying in Class XI in KVs/NVs/Government schools or CBSE-affiliated private schools in India. Selection is based on merit, with a focus on students pursuing Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics (PCM) stream. The scholarship program requires a minimum CGPA of 70% in Class X and 80% in science and mathematics.
Additionally, family annual income should be less than 6 lakhs to qualify for the UDAAN CBSE Scholarship Program.
By actively participating in these government schemes, parents can ensure a secure and prosperous future for their girl child, fostering an environment of education, empowerment, and equal opportunities.
