Looking For Safe Returns? Here’s Full List Of Small Savings Schemes And Their Interest Rates

Last Updated:January 13, 2026, 18:01 IST

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana and Senior Citizen Savings Scheme lead with 8.2 percent interest for January to March 2026, while NSC, KVP, PPF and MIS offer varied rates for investors.

SCSS is ideal for retirees seeking stable income with sovereign guarantee. (File Photo)

Small Savings Schemes Interest Rates: The interest rates on small savings schemes have been declared for the three months between January 1, 2026 to March 31, 2026.

By offering the safety of investment, these government-backed schemes provide reasonable rates of interest, helping investors to grow their wealth and beat inflation.

The significance of these schemes grows at a time when market returns have been subdued due to sharp correction. There are several options for investors under schemes from parents of girl children to senior citizens.

Top Performers for Long-Term Wealth

The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) continues to lead the pack with an impressive 8.2% interest rate. This remains the gold standard for long-term savings dedicated to the girl child, offering both high returns and tax benefits. Matching this high yield is the Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS), also at 8.2%, providing a stable and lucrative income stream for retirees.

Other Options

Among other instruments, National Savings Certificates (NSC) carry an interest rate of 7.7%, while Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) offers 7.5%, doubling investments over time. For those seeking monthly payouts, the Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) offers 7.4%, suitable for conservative investors who want steady cash flow.

The Public Provident Fund (PPF) continues at 7.1%, remaining a popular tax-saving option with long-term wealth creation benefits. Recurring Deposits earn 6.7%, while Savings Bank deposits offer a modest 4%.

Time deposits under the National Savings Time Deposit scheme vary by tenure. One-year deposits fetch 6.9%, two-year deposits 7.0%, three-year deposits 7.1%, and five-year deposits offer 7.5%, making longer tenures more rewarding.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips by experts in this News18.com report are their own and not those of the website or its management. Users are advised to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.

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