The Government of India has issued SB Order No. 17/2025, bringing clarity for millions of small savings investors across the country. As per the latest communication from the Department of Posts, the interest rates on Small Savings Schemes will remain unchanged for the fourth quarter of the financial year 2025–26.
This order is effective from 1 January 2026 to 31 March 2026 and applies to all National Small Savings Schemes operated through post offices.
Key Details of SB Order No. 17/2025
- Order Number: SB Order No. 17/2025
- File Number: F. No 113-03/2024
- Issued By: Ministry of Communications, Department of Posts
- Date of Issue: 31 December 2025
- Effective Period: 1 January 2026 to 31 March 2026
The order has been circulated to all Heads of Circles and Regions for further dissemination and public awareness.
What Does the Order Say?
According to the official memorandum issued by the Ministry of Finance (Department of Economic Affairs), the interest rates for all Small Savings Schemes will remain the same as those applicable in the third quarter of FY 2025–26 (1 October 2025 to 31 December 2025).
In simple terms, no increase or decrease has been announced in interest rates for the January–March 2026 quarter.
Small Savings Schemes Covered Under This Order
The decision applies to all National Small Savings Schemes, including:
- Post Office Savings Account
- Post Office Time Deposit (1, 2, 3 & 5 years)
- Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (MIS)
- Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS)
- Public Provident Fund (PPF)
- National Savings Certificate (NSC)
- Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
- Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP)
Investors will continue to earn interest at the existing rates on these schemes during the fourth quarter of FY 2025–26.
Why This Decision Matters
Small Savings Schemes are popular among:
- Government employees
- Pensioners and senior citizens
- Middle-class and risk-averse investors
By keeping the interest rates unchanged, the government ensures stability and predictability for long-term savers, especially those who rely on fixed returns for financial security.
Instructions for Post Offices
The Department of Posts has directed that:
- The order must be circulated to all concerned officials
- A copy should be displayed on the notice board of every post office in public areas
- Necessary guidance should be provided to customers seeking information
This ensures transparency and easy access to information for the general public.
Official Approval
The SB Order has been issued with the approval of the Competent Authority and is signed by Devender Kumar Sharma, Assistant Director (SB-II).
Conclusion
SB Order No. 17/2025 confirms that Small Savings Scheme interest rates will remain unchanged from 1 January 2026. For investors, this means continuity in returns and no immediate need to revise financial planning for the current quarter.
Anyone investing through post offices can continue their savings with confidence, knowing that the government has maintained stability in these trusted schemes.