Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Guide — Sukanya Samriddhi & Tax Benefits

Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) is a government scheme launched in January 2015 to address the declining child sex ratio, promote girl child education, and ensure the survival and protection of girls. It is a tri-ministerial initiative involving Women & Child Development, Health, and Education ministries, implemented across all districts in India.

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) is a government-backed savings scheme for girl children under BBBP. Parents can open an SSY account for a girl below 10 years of age, deposit ₹250 to ₹1,50,000 annually for 15 years, and the account matures after 21 years. It offers 8.2% annual interest (as of FY 2025–26) and full EEE tax benefits under Section 80C.

As of Q1 FY 2025–26, the SSY interest rate is 8.2% per annum, compounded annually. The rate is reviewed and announced quarterly by the Ministry of Finance. It is one of the highest interest rates among government small savings schemes, making it an excellent long-term savings option for families with girl children.

SSY deposits up to ₹1,50,000 per year qualify for deduction under Section 80C, saving up to ₹46,800 in tax (at 30% + cess) annually. Additionally, the interest earned and the maturity amount are both fully tax-free (EEE status). Over 21 years, this translates to significant tax savings alongside wealth accumulation for your daughter's future.

Partial withdrawal of up to 50% of the balance is allowed once the girl turns 18, specifically for higher education expenses. Full premature closure is permitted for the girl's marriage (after age 18), life-threatening illness, or death of the guardian. Normal maturity occurs 21 years after account opening. Early closure for marriage requires documentary proof.

SSY accounts can be opened at any India Post office or authorised banks including SBI, PNB, Bank of Baroda, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, and others. You need the girl child's birth certificate, parent/guardian's identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN), address proof, and two passport-size photographs. The initial deposit of minimum ₹250 is required at account opening.

No, NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) cannot open new SSY accounts. If an account holder's parent becomes an NRI after opening the account, the account can continue until maturity but no fresh deposits can be made after the parent acquires NRI status. The existing balance continues to earn interest until maturity. Only Indian residents can open and operate SSY accounts.

Companies with net worth of ₹500 crore+, turnover of ₹1,000 crore+, or net profit of ₹5 crore+ must spend 2% of average net profits on CSR. BBBP-aligned activities — girl child education, healthcare, skill development, and awareness campaigns — qualify under Schedule VII of the Companies Act. Businesses can partner with district administrations, NGOs, or directly fund programmes aligned with BBBP objectives.