The Central Government’s flagship financial inclusion scheme — Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) — continues to benefit millions across India. Launched in 2017 by the Narendra Modi-led government, the scheme offers essential banking services to even those who don’t have any money in their accounts. The latest benefit? Eligible account holders can access an overdraft of up to ₹10,000, even with zero balance.
Let’s explore how you can take advantage of this financial support and who qualifies for it.
Withdraw ₹10,000 Even with Zero BalanceOne of the most attractive features of the PM Jan Dhan Yojana is the overdraft facility, which allows account holders to withdraw up to ₹10,000 even if there is no money in the account. This benefit is especially useful for individuals from low-income groups who may require small, short-term funds in times of need.
How it works:
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If your Jan Dhan account is at least six months old, you can avail the full ₹10,000 overdraft.
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If the account is less than six months old, the overdraft limit is capped at ₹2,000.
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The maximum age limit for applying for an overdraft is 65 years.
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A small interest amount is charged on the overdraft, but it requires no additional paperwork or guarantor.
PMJDY is much more than just a savings account. Here’s what you get when you open a Jan Dhan account:
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Zero Balance Account: No requirement to maintain a minimum balance.
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Overdraft Facility: Withdraw money up to ₹10,000 when needed.
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Free Accident Insurance: Up to ₹1 lakh coverage included with the account.
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Passbook and Chequebook: Basic banking tools at no extra cost.
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Pension and DBT Benefits: Direct transfer of government subsidies, pensions, and welfare schemes.
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Access to Banking in Rural Areas: Empowering the unbanked with formal financial services.
This zero-balance scheme has already helped crores of people across India by providing access to savings, insurance, and pension services — all under one platform.
Who Is Eligible?To open a Jan Dhan account, you need to fulfill a few basic requirements:
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Aadhaar Card and PAN Card are necessary for identity verification.
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The minimum age to open an account is 10 years.
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Already have a savings account? You can convert it into a Jan Dhan account by contacting your bank.
Opening a PMJDY account is simple and can be done at any participating bank branch:
Visit your nearest bank and ask for the Jan Dhan account opening form.
Submit the filled form along with your Aadhaar and PAN card copies.
If eligible, request activation of the overdraft facility after six months of regular transactions.
Link your account to mobile banking for easier access and updates.
The PM Jan Dhan Yojana is one of India’s most successful financial reforms, aimed at bringing the unbanked population into the formal banking system. With benefits like zero-balance maintenance, overdraft options, and insurance coverage, it empowers individuals—especially in rural and economically weaker sections—to manage their finances with dignity.
If you or someone you know hasn't yet taken advantage of this scheme, now is the right time to open a Jan Dhan account and secure access to essential financial services — including the potential for ₹10,000 in emergency support.
Stay financially empowered with PM Jan Dhan Yojana — your gateway to smart and secure banking.
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