Amid the nationwide lockdown, the government has been taking different initiatives for the welfare of the farmers, workers and poor. Under the Central Government's Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), accounts are opened in banks with zero balance for the needy and poor people. Financial assistance is provided in these accounts under schemes like a gas subsidy, widow pension, Kisan Samman Nidhi etc. which aims to expand and make affordable access to financial services such as bank accounts, remittances, credit, insurance and pensions. Recently, the government has allowed opening accounts for minor children above the age of 10 years under the Jan Dhan Yojana. Moreover, the account can be opened in any bank branch or post office payment bank outlet.
An overdraft facility of Rs 10,000 is available
Anyone who has government verified documents related to identity can easily open an account. However, according to the rules, the guardian of the child will operate the account in the name of the child. An ATM is also issued in the name of the child. At the age of 18, after submitting an identity proof, the bank will be handed the account to the name of the real beneficiary.
Important Documents for PMFBY (above the age of 10 years)
Parents are required to submit any valid proof such as Aadhaar card, passport or ration card, etc. along with their address proof. If the parents do not have any of these documents, then they can submit any one of the documents issued by the central government through which the identity is revealed.
To open a bank account under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, you can download the form from the PM Jan Dhan Yojana website or from the website of any bank. Its forms are also available at branches of banks where you can directly go and fill-up the form in the bank itself.
How to Apply Online for PMFBY
Visit the official website of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana https://pmjdy.gov.in/
Then click here to open an account.
You can easily select the options that are suitable for you.