Introduction
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is India's flagship financial inclusion program launched in August 2014. As of 2026, over 55 crore bank accounts have been opened under this scheme, bringing banking services to every unbanked household in the country. This article covers everything you need to know about opening a zero-balance account, the benefits you get, and how to apply.
Key Benefits at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Balance | Zero — no minimum balance required |
| Interest Rate | 3.5% to 4% per annum on savings |
| Overdraft Limit | Up to ₹10,000 (after 6 months of satisfactory operation) |
| Insurance Cover | Accidental cover of ₹2 lakh + life cover of ₹30,000 |
| Eligibility | Any Indian citizen above 10 years of age |
Can I open a Jan Dhan account without Aadhaar?
Yes, you can open the account with any government-issued ID like Voter ID or Driving License. However, Aadhaar is required for RuPay card issuance and to avail the overdraft facility.
How much overdraft can I get?
After 6 months of satisfactory transaction history, you become eligible for an overdraft of up to ₹10,000. The overdraft is provided without any collateral.
Is the Jan Dhan account free forever?
Yes, there are no account maintenance charges. However, standard charges apply for cheque books, ATM transactions beyond the free limit, and other value-added services.
Can I transfer my existing bank account to Jan Dhan?
No, PMJDY accounts are opened as new accounts specifically under this scheme. You can hold both a regular account and a Jan Dhan account simultaneously.
What happens if I don't use the account for a long time?
The account remains active as long as you complete at least one transaction every 12 months. Inactive accounts can be reactivated by visiting your bank branch.