The choice between Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) and National Savings Certificate (NSC) depends on your investment goals, tax-saving needs*, and time horizon. While both are government-backed and low-risk, they cater to different investor priorities. The table below highlights their key differences to help you decide:
Criteria
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KVP
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NSC
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Investment objective
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Ideal for investors aiming to double their investment over time without focusing on tax benefits*
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Suitable for investors seeking capital safety along with tax-saving benefits
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Risk level
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Very low risk, backed by the Government of India
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Very low risk with full government backing
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Returns
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Structured to double the investment over a fixed period, providing clear return visibility
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Offers attractive, annually compounded interest that is taxable but eligible for tax deduction, improving effective returns
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Tax benefits*
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No tax benefits* on the invested amount or interest earned
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Investments up to ₹1.5 lakh qualify for deduction under Section 80C; reinvested interest also qualifies within the overall limit
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Liquidity
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Can be encashed after 2 years and 6 months, subject to conditions, offering relatively better liquidity
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Premature withdrawal is highly restricted and generally permitted only in case of the investor’s death
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Tenure
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Fixed tenure, currently around 10 years and 4 months, subject to prevailing interest rates
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Fixed maturity period of 5 years, making it a shorter-term option
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Minimum investment
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Flexible investment amounts with no maximum limit
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Low minimum investment; effective upper limit aligned with Section 80C tax-saving limits
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*Tax benefits are subject to prevailing income tax laws and may change from time to time.
Conclusion
Both NSC and KVP are excellent investment options for risk-averse investors. NSC offers tax-saving benefits and a fixed tenure, making it ideal for short to medium-term goals. KVP, on the other hand, focuses on doubling the principal over a longer term. While NSC attracts tax-conscious investors, KVP appeals to those looking for wealth growth. Assessing your financial goals and investment horizon will help determine the best option for your needs. For a balanced portfolio, consider diversifying between both schemes based on their unique features.
If you are looking for safe investment option, then you can consider investing Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit. With a top-tier AAA rating from financial agencies like CRISIL and ICRA, they offer one of the highest returns, up to 7.30% p.a.