The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) has seen remarkable success, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. While banking services are easily accessible in cities, this scheme has brought financial inclusion to millions in remote regions. As of March 7, 2025, over 55.05 crore Jan Dhan accounts have been opened, with 36.63 crore accounts belonging to rural and semi-urban customers. This reflects a major shift towards digital banking and financial security for the underprivileged.
Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)
The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) supports small businesses and entrepreneurs by providing easy loans. As of February 28, 2025, a total of ₹33.19 lakh crore loans have been sanctioned under the scheme, benefitting over 52.07 crore borrowers across India.
Stand Up India Scheme (SUIP)
The Stand Up India Scheme promotes entrepreneurship among Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and women. Since its launch, loans worth ₹60,504 crore have been distributed to 2.67 lakh beneficiaries, encouraging self-employment and small business growth.
Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY)
The PMSBY is an affordable accident insurance scheme offering financial protection in case of disability or death. With a premium of just ₹20 per year, policyholders get accident cover of ₹2 lakh for death or permanent disability and ₹1 lakh for partial disability. As of March 2025, over 50.30 crore people have enrolled in this scheme.
Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY)
The PMJJBY provides life insurance coverage of ₹2 lakh for a premium of ₹436 per year. The policy can be renewed annually and ensures financial security for families in case of the policyholder’s death. Over 23.21 crore people have enrolled under this scheme.
Atal Pension Yojana (APY)
The Atal Pension Yojana (APY) ensures pension benefits for unorganized sector workers. Citizens aged 18 to 40 years can contribute towards a monthly pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 after the age of 60. So far, 7.49 crore individuals have registered under this scheme, ensuring financial stability in their retirement years.
Why is PMJDY More Popular in Rural Areas?
One of the key reasons for PMJDY’s popularity in rural India is its easy accessibility and zero-balance account feature. Many individuals in villages previously lacked banking facilities, but this scheme provided them with a formal banking structure, government subsidies, and insurance benefits. Additionally, financial literacy programs have helped spread awareness, making it a preferred choice over traditional banking.
Other Government Financial Inclusion Efforts
Apart from PMJDY, the government has launched multiple schemes like PMSBY, PMJJBY, Mudra Yojana, and APY, all contributing to better financial security. These initiatives are driving economic empowerment and helping millions access financial services that were once out of reach.