Source: BS
Context:
The Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman informed Parliament that Basic Savings Bank Deposit Accounts (BSBDAs), including those opened under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, are not subject to penalties for failing to maintain a minimum balance.
Key Points:
- Around 720 million Basic Savings Bank Deposit Accounts (BSBDAs) are currently operational in India.
- These include accounts opened under the Jan Dhan Yojana, which aim to expand financial inclusion.
- Such accounts are designed as zero-balance savings accounts, meaning account holders are not required to maintain a minimum balance.
What is a BSBD Account?
A Basic Savings Bank Deposit Account (BSBDA) is a no-frills savings bank account introduced by the Reserve Bank of India to promote financial inclusion by providing basic banking services to all sections of society, especially low-income and unbanked individuals.
Purpose of BSBDA Accounts:
- Ensure universal access to banking services.
- Provide financial services to unbanked and vulnerable populations, including low-income households and small depositors.
- Promote financial inclusion by enabling access to savings, credit, insurance, and government benefits.
