The Government of India has launched a new small savings scheme called Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) on 31.03.2023. This scheme is dedicated to women’s empowerment and commemorates Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The scheme will be available for a period of two years up to March 2025. This article will provide you with an overview of the features of the scheme and how it can be beneficial for women.
GOI Notificcation dated 31/03/2023: Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) 2023
MSSC Eligibility and Deposit Amount
Mahila Samman Savings Certificate can only be purchased by a woman or in the name of a minor girl child. The minimum amount of deposit is Rs 1,000, and the maximum amount of deposit under this scheme is Rs 2,00,000. The scheme is a one-time scheme, and accounts can be opened from 01.04.2023 to 31.03.2025 only.
MSSC Interest Rate and Compounding Frequency
The interest rate under Mahila Samman Savings Certificate, 2023 is fixed at 7.5% per annum compounded quarterly. Hence, the annualized yield comes to 7.71%. It is a fixed interest-rated scheme. The interest will be reinvested and will be paid at the time of maturity. No monthly or quarterly or other periodic interest payment is allowed.
MSSC Partial Withdrawal and Premature Closure
Partial withdrawal is allowed after the completion of one year. Up to 40% of the eligible balance can be withdrawn. However, premature closure of the account is allowed only in exceptional circumstances.
No Credit Risk and Tax Benefits (MSSC)
The scheme does not have any credit risk as it is backed by the government. However, there are no tax benefits on making an investment in Mahila Samman Savings Certificate. As per the general rules, the interest income on this scheme shall become taxable.
Benefits and Salient Features of Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC)
Women in India face many challenges when it comes to financial independence. The Mahila Samman Savings Certificate scheme provides a platform for women to invest in their future and secure their financial stability. The scheme aims to encourage women to save and invest, which can lead to long-term financial independence. Features and benefits of MSSC are as under:
i) The scheme is exclusively for women and girl children;
ii) The deposit facility is available for a tenor of two years;
iii) The minimum amount of deposit is Rs 1,000, and the maximum amount is Rs 2,00,000;
iv) The interest rate is fixed at 7.5% per annum, compounded quarterly, making it an attractive investment option for women;
v) Partial withdrawal of up to 40% of the eligible balance is allowed after the completion of one year;
vi) Premature closure of the account before the maturity period is allowed only in exceptional circumstances;
vii) The scheme does not have any credit risk as it is backed by the government; and
viii) No tax benefit on making an investment in Mahila Samman Savings Certificate is announced. As per general rules, the interest income on this scheme shall become taxable.
Conclusion
Mahila Samman Savings Certificate, 2023 is a commendable initiative by the government of India to empower women and promote financial independence. The scheme offers a fixed interest rate, partial withdrawal options, and a deposit facility of up to Rs 2 lakh in the name of women or girls for a tenor of 2 years. Women should take advantage of this scheme and secure their financial future.
Salient features from INDIAPOST.GOV.IN Website | |
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I appreciate our government’s initiative, and I especially thank FM N. Sitharaman Ji for introducing the scheme. I read the entire post; it’s very informative and to the point. I still have a few questions, if anyone can answer them:
a) Are there any penalties for closing the MSSC account prematurely, and what are the exceptional circumstances that allow it?
b) How do I apply to invest in the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate scheme, and what documents do I need?
c) Will the Government of India extend the scheme beyond March 2025, or is it a one-time event? Also, why is it only for 2 years?
d) Can women obtain additional benefits, such as insurance coverage add-ons or loan facilities, by investing in the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate scheme?
Thanks.
One more question, is there a way to purchase this digitally?
This is very profitable scheme for women, specially for women in rural areas, who wants to gain her capital securely. Thanks for sharing with us about the full scheme details.