Here are 5 government-backed schemes that require less investment and promise good returns

This scheme was initiated by the government to end female foeticide. By investing in this scheme, you will be eligible to annualised returns of around 8.5%. Only one account is allowed per child and parents can open a maximum of two accounts for each of their children. A minimum of Rs 1,000 must be deposited in the account annually. The maximum deposit limit is ₹150,000.

This is especially for those who want to do some tax savings. Yes, tax benefits by investing in Mutual funds. Under Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS), you can save up to Rs 1.5 lakh under section 80C and also get a chance to earn potentially higher amount of returns on your investments with the lowest lock-in period of only three years, as compared to any other tax saving investment schemes.

This is a life insurance scheme and can be taken up by any individual between 18 and 50 years of age. The minimum annual premium is of Rs 330, with a death benefit of Rs 2 lakh to the nominee. The Suraksha Bima Yojana offers a renewable one-year accidental death-cum-disability cover of Rs 2 lakh at Rs 12 as an annual premium.

This scheme became attractive last year, which is regulated by Pension Fund Regulatory & Development Authority (FRDA). This will take care of your retirement needs. The best part of this scheme is that it also offers tax benefits under section 80CCD of Income-tax Act, 1961 within an overall limit of Rs 1.5 lakh. In the last budget, an additional deduction up to Rs 50,000 is also allowed for the contribution made towards NPS. This made the total deduction under section 80CCD to Rs 2 lakh.