(a) the criteria fixed for availing the benefits of the small saving schemes
along with the rates of interests applicable as on date scheme-wise; and
(b) the steps taken or proposed to be taken by the Government to ensure that
people from the weaker section of the society can avail the benefits?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE:
SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA:
(a)&(b): Madam/Sir, benefits of small savings schemes are equally available to all
persons which include weaker section of the society. For availing benefit of any
welfare scheme of the Government, a new category of savings account called ‘Basic
Savings Account’ has been notified through which a beneficiary of any Government
welfare scheme can open zero balance account in any post office. List of current
small savings schemes with current rate of interest applicable from 1.4.2013 is
annexed herewith.