Small Savings Rates Frozen: Govt Maintains Status Quo for New Year Quarter

• Government keeps interest rates on small savings schemes, including PPF, NSC, and Sukanya Samriddhi, unchanged for Jan-Mar 2026 quarter.
• This marks the seventh consecutive quarter with no change, maintaining rates in effect for nearly two years.
• Investors, especially salaried individuals and senior citizens, are disappointed as they expected an increase amidst rising inflation.
• Key rates: Sukanya Samriddhi (8.2%), Provident Fund (7.1%), NSC (7.7%), Kisan Vikas Patra (7.5%), Postal Monthly Income (7.4%).
• Despite no increase, these schemes offer guaranteed returns, serving as a safe haven amidst stock market volatility.

Why It Matters: Small savings interest rates remain unchanged for Jan-Mar 2026, disappointing investors but offering stability.