Plan Your Future: A Tailored List Of 10 Smart Investment Plans

An investment plan is an essential financial instrument that maximises our savings through systematic, long-term investments for long-term wealth generation. Introducing investment plans is India's first step towards achieving a disciplined and periodic market.  

The Public Provident Fund (PPF) scheme assures minimal risk and assured returns to the investor which matures in 15 years. The account of tax benefits up to u/s 80C culminating limit to Rs 1.5 lakh annually and tax exemption. 

Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF) offers assured returns at the same rate as the underlying Employee Provident Fund (EPF). A VPF account is eligible for tax benefits u/s 80 C to culminate Rs 1.5 lakh annually. An EPF  account can make additional contributions to a VPF account.  

A government scheme that provides dual benefits of life cover and wealth creation. ULIPs provide investors with 80C tax benefits of up to 1.5 lakhs. It aligns with Section 10 benefits of maturity, an exemption for salaried individuals residing in rented accommodations.  

It is an equity-oriented mutual fund with a 3-year-long period to lock in and provides markets linked to return to the investors. ELSS investors are eligible for Section 80C benefits up to 1.5 lakhs culminating limit. However, they are taxable per mutual fund taxation rules.  

National Saving Certificate (NSC), is a low-risk investment that provides assured returns locked in at the time of investments. The scheme qualified for section 80 tax benefits up to 1.5 lakh annually. However, after the account's maturity, the subject is taxable as per taxable tax rules.  

An investment instrument is available for senior citizens and those seeking early retirement. The scheme provides fixed returns and provides regular post-retirement income. The investment is tax-free in both early retirement and senior citizen situations.  

This government-backed scheme doubles investment after a pre-determined period based on prevailing interest rates. Kisan Vikas Patra does not provide tax benefits; therefore, the maturity amount and interest earned are subject to tax.   

Mahila Samman Yojana is backed by government. It is a short-term investment plan and can only be opened in the name of a woman or a girl child. The maturity period is 2 years, and the investment plans have no tax benefits.  

The Atal Pension Yojana provides a guaranteed monthly pension of Rs 1000 to Rs 5000 to individuals working in the unorganised sector. As per the old tax guidelines, the investments are eligible for a yearly reduction of up to Rs 2 lakhs.  

Exchange-traded funds are a unique type of mutual fund that can be traded on the stock exchange market, like equity stocks. It provides returns to investors. However, investors are not subjected to any tax-saving benefits.