Complete guide to every major scheme. Backed by sovereign guarantee, explained in plain language.
Short answer: the highest guaranteed rates among government schemes are SSY and SCSS at 8.2%, then NSC at 7.7%, the 5-year post office deposit at 7.5%, and PPF at 7.1%. PPF and SSY are the only two that are completely tax-free.
These schemes are run through banks and post offices across India. All are backed by the Government of India — your money is as safe as it can possibly be.
| Scheme | Rate | Lock-in | Tax | Risk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPF | 7.1% | 15 yr | EEE (80C) | Zero | Long-term safe savings |
| SSY | 8.2% | 21 yr | EEE (80C) | Zero | Daughter's future |
| SCSS | 8.2% | 5 yr | 80C deposit | Zero | Retiree income |
| NPS | 9-12% | Till 60 | 80C+80CCD | Low-Med | Retirement + tax |
| NSC | 7.7% | 5 yr | 80C | Zero | Medium-term safe |
| KVP | 7.5% | ~115 mo | None | Zero | Doubling money |
| APY | Fixed pension | Till 60 | 80CCD | Zero | Pension for workers |
| PMJJBY | ₹2L cover | 1 yr renew | 80C | N/A | Life insurance ₹436/yr |
| PMSBY | ₹2L cover | 1 yr renew | 80C | N/A | Accident cover ₹20/yr |
| PM-KISAN | ₹6K/yr | N/A | N/A | N/A | Farmer income support |
Rates for Q2 FY 2026-27 (Jul-Sep 2026). Subject to quarterly revision by the Government of India.
Written and checked by the PaisaSamajh editorial desk · Last reviewed: 24 August 2026 · How we check this →