Discover the latest small saving schemes interest rates in India for Oct–Dec 2025. Compare PPF, NSC, SCSS, SSY & more to choose the best safe investment.
In India, small saving schemes 2025 remain one of the safest and most popular ways to grow money with guaranteed returns and government backing. These schemes are ideal for risk-averse investors, senior citizens, and anyone looking to build wealth steadily over time.
In this article, we’ll cover the latest interest rates, key features, and benefits of all major small saving schemes 2025 for the October–December 2025 quarter.
Latest Small Saving Schemes Interest Rates (Oct–Dec 2025)
| Scheme Name | Interest Rate (per annum) | Lock-in Period | Compounding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Savings Deposit | 4.0% | None | Quarterly |
| 1-Year Time Deposit | 6.9% | 1 year | Quarterly |
| 2-Year Time Deposit | 7.0% | 2 years | Quarterly |
| 3-Year Time Deposit | 7.1% | 3 years | Quarterly |
| 5-Year Time Deposit | 7.5% | 5 years | Quarterly |
| 5-Year Recurring Deposit (RD) | 6.9% | 5 years | Quarterly |
| Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS) | 8.2% | 5 years | Quarterly |
| Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) | 7.4% | 5 years | Monthly payout |
| National Savings Certificate (NSC) | 7.7% | 5 years | Annual |
| Public Provident Fund (PPF) | 7.1% | 15 years | Annual |
| Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) | 7.5% | ~115 months | Annual |
| Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) | 8.2% | 21 years | Annual |
Source: Ministry of Finance, Government of India – Rates applicable from 1st Oct 2025 to 31st Dec 2025
Detailed Overview of Top Small Saving Schemes 2025
1. Public Provident Fund (PPF)
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Interest Rate: 7.1% p.a. (compounded annually)
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Lock-in: 15 years (partial withdrawal allowed after 7 years)
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Tax Benefits: ₹1.5 lakh deduction under Section 80C + tax-free returns
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Best For: Long-term wealth creation and retirement planning
2. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
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Interest Rate: 8.2% p.a.
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Eligibility: Girl child below 10 years
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Lock-in: 21 years or until marriage
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Tax Benefits: EEE (Exempt-Exempt-Exempt)
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Best For: Securing your daughter’s education and marriage future
3. Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS)
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Interest Rate: 8.2% p.a.
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Lock-in: 5 years (extendable by 3 years)
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Eligibility: Age 60+ or 55+ (if retired under VRS)
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Best For: Safe and regular post-retirement income
4. National Savings Certificate (NSC)
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Interest Rate: 7.7% p.a.
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Lock-in: 5 years
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Tax Benefits: Up to ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C
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Best For: Medium-term savings with guaranteed returns
5. Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP)
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Interest Rate: 7.5% p.a.
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Maturity: Doubles your money in approx. 9 years 7 months
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Best For: Long-term wealth growth without market risk
Why Invest in Small Saving Schemes 2025?
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Government-Backed Security: Your investment is completely safe.
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Attractive Fixed Returns: Higher than regular savings accounts and some FDs.
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Tax Benefits: Many schemes qualify for deductions under Section 80C.
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Flexible Tenure Options: From short-term deposits to long-term plans.
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Ideal for All: Suitable for children, retirees, and conservative investors.
Tips to Maximize Returns
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Diversify across short-term and long-term small saving schemes 2025.
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Start early to benefit from compound interest.
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Use schemes like PPF and SSY for tax-efficient wealth building.
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Reinvest maturity proceeds to keep your money growing steadily.
Conclusion
Small saving schemes 2025 are one of the safest and most reliable ways to grow your money in India. With government backing, attractive fixed returns, and tax-saving benefits, these schemes are ideal for investors of all ages — from children to retirees.
Whether you choose PPF for long-term wealth creation, SCSS for regular post-retirement income, or SSY to secure your daughter’s future, small saving schemes help you plan your financial goals effectively.
Start early, diversify across schemes, and take advantage of compounding to maximize your returns. With the right strategy, small saving schemes 2025 can provide financial security, steady growth, and peace of mind for years to come.
Latest Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Interest Rate 2025
Latest Senior Citizen Scheme 2025
Which small saving scheme do you prefer — PPF, NSC, or SCSS? Share your thoughts in the comments below!