Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: A Lifeline for Girls in Motihari, Bihar with Over 72,000 Accounts

Motihari (Bihar), April 25 (NationPress) Since the establishment of the NDA government, the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been a transformative force for countless girls and their families throughout India.

In the East Champaran district of Bihar, this initiative is receiving remarkable attention in Motihari. Excluding other financial institutions, more than 72,000 accounts have been opened in the names of daughters solely through post offices, with families actively contributing to their savings.

Previously, many in society regarded daughters as a burden, particularly among economically challenged groups. The expenses related to education and marriage were a heavy load for parents. However, the launch of the SSY has positively altered this perception.

This scheme allows for an account to be opened in the name of a girl child aged between 0 and 10 years, requiring a minimal deposit of just Rs 250 and permitting a maximum annual deposit of Rs 1.5 lakh. The scheme boasts one of the highest interest rates among small savings initiatives and strives to ensure financial stability for a girl's education and marriage.

According to Motihari Postal Superintendent Ashutosh Aditya, the district has opened 72,000 SSY accounts through the Postal Department alone.

"To enhance awareness and expand our reach, we are conducting camps both during the day and night at various locations," he informed IANS.

IANS interviewed some account holders from this scheme, who expressed immense appreciation and satisfaction. For many, the SSY has become a beacon of hope and security.

Shailesh Kumar, an account holder, remarked: "This is the best scheme initiated by the Prime Minister. It offers the highest interest rate. By consistently depositing for 15 years, starting when the girl is under 10, it yields substantial benefits. It’s outstanding for both education and marriage."

Another account holder, Shambhu Prasad, stated: "I’ve also opened an account under SSY. It’s a fantastic initiative for middle-class families. In the past, daughters were often considered a burden. However, thanks to PM Modi’s scheme, that perspective is shifting. Girls are now perceived as blessings. I encourage everyone to utilize this scheme."

Vineeta Bala, another account holder, added: "This scheme is a tremendous relief. It guarantees that we don’t have to worry about our daughter’s education or marriage. It’s truly a gift for every girl child. I sincerely thank Prime Minister Modi for launching such a considerate initiative."

Launched on January 22, 2015, as part of the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign, the SSY has become a symbol of financial empowerment and gender equality. The scheme not only provides financial advantages but also elevates the status of daughters in society.

As the SSY approaches its tenth anniversary on January 22, 2025, it continues to empower families to invest in their daughters' futures and promote a culture of inclusion and progress. To date, more than 4.1 crore accounts have been established under the scheme nationwide as of November 2024.