Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is a national mission to give every household access to banking. It was launched on 28 August 2014 and is one of the world’s largest financial inclusion programmes. Here is a guide.
Scale
According to official data, more than 55 crore Jan Dhan accounts had been opened by 2025, with a majority held by women and a large share in rural and semi urban areas.
Key benefits
- **Zero balance:** The account is a Basic Savings Bank Deposit account, so no minimum balance is required.
- **Interest:** Deposits earn interest like a normal savings account.
- **RuPay debit card:** Account holders get a free RuPay card.
- **Accident insurance:** The RuPay card carries accident insurance cover of Rs 2 lakh for accounts opened after 28 August 2018, and Rs 1 lakh for older accounts, subject to card use conditions.
- **Overdraft:** Eligible account holders can get an overdraft of up to Rs 10,000, subject to conditions such as satisfactory account conduct.
- **Direct Benefit Transfer:** Government subsidies and scheme payments can be credited directly.
- **Access to other schemes:** Account holders can join PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, PM Suraksha Bima Yojana and Atal Pension Yojana.
Who can open
Any Indian citizen aged 10 years or above who does not have a bank account can open one. Minors can open an account with a guardian.
Also Read: Atal Pension Yojana: Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 Monthly Pension, Contribution Chart and How to Join | PM Vishwakarma Yojana: 18 Trades Covered, Rs 15,000 Toolkit Aid and Loan up to Rs 3 Lakh at 5 Percent
Documents needed
- Aadhaar card is the simplest document.
- Other officially valid documents such as a voter ID, driving licence, passport or NREGA job card can also be used.
- People without documents can open a small account with limits, which can later be converted after KYC.
How to open
- Visit any bank branch or Business Correspondent (Bank Mitra) outlet.
- Fill the PMJDY account opening form.
- Submit KYC documents and a photograph.
- Collect your passbook and RuPay card.
Keep your account active
- Use the RuPay card or account regularly so insurance cover stays valid.
- Update KYC when the bank asks.
- Link your mobile number for alerts.
Safety tips
- Never share your PIN or OTP with anyone.
- Do not lend your account to others, as misuse can make you liable.
- Report fraud to the bank and the 1930 cyber helpline.
Bottom line
A Jan Dhan account opens the door to banking, insurance, pensions and direct benefits, all with no minimum balance.
Source / स्रोत: Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Department of Financial Services, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, Press Information Bureau
