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The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a popular long-term savings scheme in India, offering tax benefits and a secure investment avenue. Here’s a breakdown of who can invest in PPF and how to go about it:

Who Can Invest
Indian Citizens: Only Indian citizens can open and invest in a PPF account.
Minors: Minors can open a PPF account through a guardian. Once they turn 18, they can manage the account independently.
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): NRIs cannot open a new PPF account, but if they had a PPF account before becoming an NRI, they can continue to manage it until maturity.
How to Invest
Eligibility Criteria:

You must be an Indian citizen.
You can open a PPF account in your name or in the name of a minor under your guardianship.
Opening an Account:

Where to Open: PPF accounts can be opened at various banks and post offices authorized by the Government of India. Most major banks and the India Post network offer this facility.
Documents Required: You will generally need proof of identity, proof of address, and a passport-sized photograph. For minors, additional documents related to the guardian might be required.
Contribution Limits:

Minimum: The minimum annual contribution is ₹500.
Maximum: The maximum annual contribution is ₹1.5 lakh.
Investment Process:

Deposits: You can deposit funds into your PPF account in lump sums or in installments. The total contribution in a financial year should not exceed ₹1.5 lakh.
Interest Rate: The interest rate on PPF is set by the government and is compounded annually. It’s revised quarterly, so it’s good to check the current rate before making deposits.
Duration and Withdrawal:

Lock-In Period: The PPF has a lock-in period of 15 years. You can extend it in blocks of 5 years after the initial maturity period.
Partial Withdrawals: You can make partial withdrawals from the 7th financial year onwards, subject to certain conditions.
Loan Against PPF: Loans can be taken against your PPF balance from the 3rd financial year to the 6th financial year.
Tax Benefits:

Under Section 80C: Contributions up to ₹1.5 lakh per year qualify for a tax deduction.
Tax-Free Growth: Interest earned and maturity proceeds are tax-free.
Account Management:

Online Services: Many banks and post offices offer online account management, allowing you to track contributions and interest.
Opening and investing in a PPF account is straightforward and provides a secure way to save for the long term while enjoying tax benefits. Make sure to review the latest rules and interest rates, as they can change with government regulations.