You’ve heard about PPF, Sukanya Samriddhi, and SIPs — but how do you choose? Each option works best for a different purpose. In this section, we’ll compare the three to help you decide what fits your goals.
🔹 Side-by-Side Comparison
Scheme
Who It's For
Lock-in Period
Returns (approx)
Tax Benefit
Best For
PPF
Any citizen (parent)
15 years
7.1% (tax-free)
Yes (80C + tax-free returns)
College savings, long-term plans
Sukanya Samriddhi
Girl child (under 10)
Until 21 years of age
7.6%+ (tax-free)
Yes (80C + tax-free returns)
Girl child’s education or marriage
SIP (Mutual Funds)
Anyone (parent invests)
Flexible (recommended: 5–10 yrs)
10–14% (market linked)
Partial (ELSS funds)
Wealth creation, inflation-beating growth
📌 Note: Interest rates may change every quarter. SIPs don’t have guaranteed returns but can grow faster over the long term.
🔹What Should You Choose?
📘 Want complete safety? Use PPF or Sukanya
📈 Want high returns over 10–15 years? Add SIPs
👛 Can save only small amount? Start SIP with ₹500/month and increase later
You don’t have to pick just one. A mix of 1 safe + 1 growth-oriented plan is often the best way forward.
💡 Tip:
Mark a date every year (your child’s birthday or school reopening) to review your plan and adjust as needed. 🎉