Choosing the best saving plan in India involves balancing risk, return, and tax efficiency. Thankfully, there are several saving instruments that cater to these goals.
Public Provident Fund (PPF)
One of the most trusted long-term saving options, the Public Provident Fund offers an attractive fixed interest rate backed by the government. The interest earned and the maturity amount are both tax-free under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. PPF has a lock-in period of 15 years, making it a great choice for retirement planning.
National Savings Certificate (NSC)
NSC is another government-backed savings scheme ideal for conservative investors seeking assured returns. It comes with a five-year lock-in period and offers fixed interest. Investments up to Rs. 1.5 lakh annually qualify for tax deduction under Section 80C, making NSC a good fit for salaried individuals.
Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF)
Automatically deducted from salaries, EPF is a powerful saving tool for retirement. Employers also contribute, and the accumulated corpus earns interest annually. Contributions are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C, and withdrawals after five years of service are tax-free.
Tax-saving Fixed Deposits
Offered by banks, these fixed deposits have a lock-in of five years and provide assured returns. Investment up to Rs. 1.5 lakh is eligible for tax benefits under Section 80C. However, the interest earned is taxable.
National Pension System (NPS)
NPS is a market-linked pension scheme offering both tax-saving and retirement benefits. Salaried individuals can claim up to Rs. 50,000 additional deduction under Section 80CCD(1B), over and above the Rs. 1.5 lakh limit of Section 80C. It is ideal for long-term wealth building and pension planning.
Conclusion
For salaried professionals, the best saving plan in India is one that combines safety, tax savings, and consistent returns. Instruments like PPF, NSC, EPF, and tax-saving FDs offer a strong foundation, while NPS adds long-term pension support. Choosing the right mix can ensure financial growth and stability.