The Indian government runs dozens of welfare and financial assistance schemes designed to help citizens across different income levels and needs. However, many eligible Indians are unaware of these programmes or do not know how to access them. Here are ten important government schemes that every Indian should know about.
1. Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY)
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana is India’s largest health insurance scheme. It provides coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary hospitalisation. Over 12 crore families are eligible based on the Socio-Economic Caste Census data. The scheme covers pre-existing conditions from day one and can be used at any empanelled hospital across the country.
2. PM Kisan Samman Nidhi
This direct income support scheme provides ₹6,000 per year to small and marginal farmer families, disbursed in three equal instalments of ₹2,000 directly to their bank accounts. Eligible farmers can register through the PM Kisan portal or at their nearest Common Service Centre.
3. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
A savings scheme specifically designed for the girl child, offering one of the highest interest rates among government small savings schemes. Parents can open an account for a daughter under the age of 10, with a minimum annual deposit of ₹250. The investment qualifies for tax deduction under Section 80C, and the interest earned and maturity amount are both tax-free.
4. Atal Pension Yojana
This scheme provides a guaranteed monthly pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 after age 60 to workers in the unorganised sector. The contribution amount depends on the subscriber’s age at entry and the chosen pension amount. The government co-contributes 50 percent of the subscriber’s contribution for eligible individuals.
5. PM Mudra Yojana
Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency provides loans of up to ₹10 lakh to non-corporate, non-farm small and micro enterprises. The loans are available in three categories: Shishu (up to ₹50,000), Kishore (₹50,000 to ₹5 lakh), and Tarun (₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh). No collateral is required.
Understanding these schemes and checking your eligibility can provide meaningful financial support and safety nets for your family. Eligibility criteria and application processes can be verified on the respective scheme websites or at government Common Service Centres.
