Small savings scheme 2026: Will PPF, NSC, KVP, and other investors ring in New Year with higher rates?

As the government prepares to review small savings interest rates for the January–March 2026 quarter, investors in schemes such as Public Provident Fund (PPF), National Savings Certificate (NSC), and Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) are keenly watching for any signs of a hike. The big question is whether 2026 will begin on a positive note for small savings investors or if the status quo will continue.

Interest rates on various small savings scheme, including Recurring Deposit (RD), PPF, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), KVP, NSC and the Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS), are reviewed by the government every quarter.

Public Provident Fund (PPF): A long-term, tax-efficient savings option suited for retirement planning, offering an interest rate of 7.1%.

Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS): A government-backed scheme providing regular income to senior citizens, with an interest rate of 8.2%.

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY): A savings scheme focused on securing the future of the girl child, offering a high interest rate of 8.2%.

National Savings Certificate (NSC): A fixed-income investment suitable for risk-averse investors, providing a guaranteed return of 7.7%.

Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS): A scheme that offers a fixed monthly payout, currently yielding 7.4%.

Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP): A government-backed savings certificate that doubles the investment over a fixed period, offering an interest rate of 7.5%.

1-Year Fixed Deposit: A short-term deposit option with an interest rate of 6.9%, suitable for conservative investors.

2-Year Fixed Deposit: A medium-term deposit offering 7.0%, balancing liquidity and returns.

3-Year Fixed Deposit: A longer lock-in option with an interest rate of 7.1%.

5-Year Fixed Deposit: A long-term savings option providing 7.5%, aimed at steady wealth creation.

5-Year Recurring Deposit: A disciplined savings plan with monthly contributions, currently offering 6.7%.