Which Are Best Government Schemes For Girl Child In India?

Since India ranks quite low in Global Gender Gap Index, a number of schemes have been launched to help the girl child

India’s sex ratio is around 1,064 males for every 1,000 females, or about 106.4 males per 100 females. In the Global Gender Gap Index 2025, India is ranked at 131st position among 148 countries. It is apparent that India needs to improve its gender ratio, as it is crucial for social stability and economic development. Let us take a look at some key programs launched by the government to help girl children in India.

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) – This is part of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign. Launched in 2015, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana aims to promote savings, so that expenses related to the education and marriage of girl child can be met. Under this program, parents of girls below 10 years old can open an account in a post office or authorized banks.

Deposit amount can be anywhere between Rs 250 to Rs 1.5 lakh per annum. One of the benefits is the high interest rate of 8.2% and tax benefits under Section 80C. Parents can withdraw funds for higher education or when the girl reaches 18 years of age. Two girl children per family are eligible for this scheme. Exceptions are made in case of twins or triplets.

Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) – This is often promoted as the flagship scheme for the girl child in India. It covers various objectives such as ensuring survival of the girl child, preventing gender-based abortions, spreading awareness through mass campaigns and providing scholarships. The government works in collaboration with various NGOs and community groups to implement the various programs under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao. Results are encouraging, as the sex ratio at birth has improved since 2015, when the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme was launched.

Balika Samriddhi Yojana (BSY) – This was launched in 1997, with the goal to protect and sustain girl children who are born into BPL (below poverty line) families. Under the Balika Samriddhi Yojana, financial assistance is provided after the birth of the girl child. This ensures that parents can provide adequate nutrition to the girl child. This program also focuses on promoting school enrollment by providing scholarships.

National Scheme of Incentives to Girls for Secondary Education – This is especially designed for girl children who come from SC/ST communities. This scheme was launched in 2008. Girl children who are 14 to 18 years of age and studying in Class IX in state-run schools are eligible for this scheme. The primary benefit is a fixed deposit of Rs 3,000 made in the girl’s name. It can be redeemed after the girl completes her education, is 18 years old and is unmarried at the time. This scheme has helped reduce dropout rates.

Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) – This scheme focuses on providing quality education to girl children coming from marginalized communities. It was launched in 2004. Girl children from SC, ST, OBC and minority communities benefit from access to residential schools at the upper primary level. Girl children have access to free education, hostel facilities, meals and books.

States also have their own special programs to help the girl child. You can find more information about these on the respective state government websites.