Best Investment Plan for Maximum Returns
Finding the best investment plan can be tough, particularly when it concerns risk versus reward, as you need to weigh the potential returns against the possibility of losing money.
So, if you are planning for goal-based investments, wealth creation, stable returns or a combination of these, choosing the right investment option in India is crucial.
Here is a roundup of 30 top investment plans in India for 2025, categorized to match different risk appetites, durations, and interest levels.
Whether you are a cautious saver looking for long term investment plan or an ambitious investor chasing high returns, this guide has everything you need.
What is an Investment Plan?
An investment plan is a structured approach to putting your money into different financial products or assets with the goal of growing your wealth, generating income, or achieving specific financial goals.
It is not just about picking a random stock or putting cash in a fixed deposit. A real investment plan considers your risk appetite, time horizon, and what you want your money to do for you.
Let’s break it down. When you create an investment plan, you are basically deciding:
- How much money you want to invest
- Where you want to invest it (like stocks, mutual funds, FDs, gold, or real estate)
- For how long you want to keep it invested
- What kind of returns you expect
- How much risk you are willing to take
A good investment plan is like a roadmap for your money. It helps you avoid knee-jerk decisions and keeps you focused on your long-term goals, whether that is buying a house, funding your child’s education, or planning a retirement.
Why Do You Need an Investment Plan?
Without a plan, your money can end up scattered across random products, often chasing the latest trend or tip. An investment plan brings discipline. It helps you:
- Prioritize your goals (short-term and long-term)
- Choose the right mix of assets (diversification)
- Stay calm during market ups and downs
- Track your progress and make adjustments as needed
What Goes Into an Investment Plan?
Here’s what you will typically find in a solid investment plan:
- Goal Setting: Clear, measurable goals (like “save ₹10 lakh for a down payment in 5 years”)
- Risk Assessment: Understanding how much risk you can handle without losing sleep
- Asset Allocation: Deciding how much to put in equity, debt, gold, real estate, etc.
- Investment Selection: Picking specific products (like a particular mutual fund or P2P lending platform)
- Review and Rebalancing: Checking your plan regularly and making changes if your goals or market conditions change
A Quick Example
Suppose you want to save for your child’s higher education, which is 10 years away. Your investment plan might include a mix of equity mutual funds for growth, some fixed deposits for safety, and maybe a Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana account if you have a daughter.
You’ll decide how much to invest each month, track your progress, and tweak your plan if needed.
Why Most Failed in Investment Planning?
I’ve seen people jump into investments just because a friend did, or because something was trending on social media.
More often than not, they end up disappointed. A well-thought-out investment plan, on the other hand, keeps you grounded. It is not about chasing the highest returns—it is about reaching your goals with the least amount of stress.
In short, an investment plan is your financial GPS. It keeps you on track, helps you avoid potholes, and gets you where you want to go—without unnecessary detours.
List of 30 Best Investment Plans in India
Choosing the right investment plan is crucial for securing your financial future. With numerous options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide where to begin.
To simplify this process, we have curated a comprehensive list of the 30 best investment plans in India to help you make informed decisions.
Low-Risk Investment Plans
Low-risk investment plans are the backbone of a stable portfolio.
These are one of the best investments in India for long term savings, perfect for anyone who wants to protect their capital, earn steady returns, and avoid sleepless nights over market swings.
Here is a detailed look at each plan:
- Public Provident Fund (PPF)
PPF is a favorite and the best saving plan for the long term savers who want safety and tax perks. This government-backed scheme encourages disciplined investing with a fixed annual contribution window.
The interest is compounded yearly, and the entire maturity amount is tax-free. You can make partial withdrawals after a few years, and even take a loan against your balance if needed.
PPF is especially popular among those planning for retirement or big future expenses, thanks to its combination of security and tax efficiency.
Key Data:
- Minimum: ₹500 per year
- Maximum: ₹1.5 lakh per year
- Lock-In Period: 15 years
- Interest: 7.1% (compounded yearly)
- Tax: EEE (everything is tax-free)
- Employee Provident Fund (EPF)
EPF is a must for salaried employees in India. Both you and your employer contribute a fixed percentage of your basic salary every month. Over time, this builds a sizable retirement corpus.
The interest rate is set by the government and credited annually.
Withdrawals are allowed after five years of continuous service, or at retirement.
EPF is a hands-off way to build wealth, and the tax benefits make it even more attractive for long-term planners.
Key Data:
- Interest: 8.15% (2025)
- Contribution: 12% of basic pay (employee + employer)
- Lock-In: Till retirement or withdrawal after 5 years of service
- Tax: Interest and maturity are tax-free if conditions are met
EPF remains one of the best pension-focused investment plans in India.
- Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)
SCSS is designed for retirees who want regular income and capital safety. The scheme is available at banks and post offices, and the interest is paid out quarterly.
You can extend the tenure once the initial period ends. Premature closure is possible, but with a penalty.
SCSS is a top pick for those who want to park their retirement funds in a safe, government-backed plan with a higher-than-average interest rate.
Key Data:
- Maximum Investment: ₹30 lakh
- Interest: 8.2% (2025)
- Lock-In Period: 5 years (extendable by 3 years)
- Interest Payout: Quarterly
- Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
SSY is a long-term savings plan for the girl child.
Parents or guardians can open an account for a daughter under 10 years old. The scheme offers one of the highest interest rates among small savings plans, and the returns are tax-free.
Deposits can be made for up to 15 years, and the account matures after 21 years or when the girl marries after 18.
SSY is a great way to secure a daughter’s future education or marriage expenses.
Key Data:
- Minimum: ₹250/year
- Maximum: ₹1.5 lakh/year
- Interest: 8.2% (2025)
- Lock-In: 21 years (or until marriage after 18)
- Fixed Deposit (FD)
FDs are the go-to for anyone who wants guaranteed returns and flexibility in tenure. You can choose how long to lock in your money, from a week to a decade.
The interest rate is fixed at the time of deposit, so you know exactly what you’ll get at maturity.
FDs are available at banks and NBFCs, and you can even get a loan against your FD if you need cash in a pinch. They’re also insured up to a certain limit, adding another layer of safety.
Key Data:
- Tenure: 7 days to 10 years
- Interest: 5.5%–7.5% (varies by bank and tenure)
- Insurance: Up to ₹5 lakh per depositor
- Recurring Deposit (RD)
RDs are perfect for those who want to build savings gradually. You deposit a fixed amount every month, and the interest is similar to FDs.
RDs help you develop a savings habit and are great for short- to medium-term goals. You can open an RD at most banks and post offices, and some even allow you to take a loan against your RD balance if needed.
Key Data:
- Minimum Contribution: ₹100/month
- Tenure: 6 months to 10 years
- Interest: 6%–7% (varies by bank)
- National Savings Certificate (NSC)
NSC is a fixed-income plan and one of the best assured return investment plans available at post offices. It’s a favorite for those who want a safe, predictable return and a tax break under Section 80C.
The interest is compounded annually and paid out at maturity. NSC can also be used as collateral for loans, making it a flexible option for conservative investors.
Key Data:
- Minimum Investment: ₹1,000
- Tenure: 5 years
- Interest: 7.7% (2025)
- Tax: Section 80C benefit
- Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP)
KVP is all about doubling your money over a fixed period. The scheme is open to everyone, not just farmers.
The interest rate is set so that your investment doubles in a little over 10 years.
There’s no maximum limit, and you can transfer the certificate from one person to another.
KVP is a solid choice for those who want a simple, long-term plan with government backing.
Key Data:
- Interest: ~7.5% (2025)
- Lock-In: Minimum 2.5 years
- Maturity: Doubles in about 10 years, 4 months
- No maximum investment limit
- Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS)
POMIS is designed for people who want a steady monthly payout. You invest a lump sum, and the scheme pays you interest every month.
It is a favorite among retirees and anyone looking for regular income without taking on risk.
The scheme is available at all post offices, and you can invest individually or jointly.
Key Data:
- Maximum Investment: ₹15 lakh (joint)
- Tenure: 5 years
- Interest: 7.4% (2025)
- Payout: Monthly
- Savings Account
A savings account is the most basic way to keep your money safe and accessible. While the returns are modest, your funds are always liquid, and you can access them anytime.
Most banks offer digital access, making it easy to manage your money on the go.
Savings accounts are best for emergency funds or money you need to access quickly.
Key Data:
- Interest: 2.5%–4% per annum
- Minimum Balance: ₹0–₹10,000 (varies by bank)
These low-risk investment plans are the backbone of a solid financial strategy. They are not flashy, but they get the job done—helping you grow your money safely, one step at a time.
Check out this post to know saving account interest rates of top banks in India.
High-Risk Investment Plans in India
High-risk investment plans are for those who want to chase higher returns and don’t mind a bumpy ride. These options can swing wildly in value, but they also offer the potential for strong growth if you’re patient and disciplined.
Here’s a detailed explanation of each plan:
- Direct Equity (Stocks)
Investing in stocks means buying ownership in companies listed on the stock exchange. It is known to deliver maximum returns on investment when planned with popular companies.
The value of your investment can rise or fall sharply in the short term, but over the long run, quality stocks have historically outperformed most other asset classes.
Picking the right stocks requires research, a strong risk tolerance for volatility, and a long-term mindset.
Many investors focus on blue-chip companies for stability, while others chase growth in mid- and small-cap stocks.
Dividends and bonus shares can add to your returns, but losses are also possible if the market turns down.
Key Data:
- Minimum Investment: Price of 1 share
- Historical Returns: 12%–15% CAGR (Nifty 50, 10 years)
- Tax: 10% LTCG above ₹1 lakh
- Equity Mutual Funds
Equity mutual funds pool money from many investors to buy a diversified basket of stocks.
Professional fund managers handle the research and stock selection, which helps reduce the risk of picking a dud. These funds come in various types—large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and sectoral—each with its own risk-reward profile.
SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans) make it easy to invest regularly and average out market ups and downs.
Equity mutual funds are ideal for investors who want equity exposure but prefer a hands-off approach.
Key Data:
- Minimum SIP: ₹500
- Expected Returns: 10%–14% annualized
- Liquidity: T+2 days for redemption
- Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Ethereum)
Cryptocurrencies are digital assets traded on global exchanges. Bitcoin and Ethereum are the most popular, but there are thousands of others.
Prices can double or halve in a matter of weeks, making crypto one of the most volatile investment options.
The market operates 24/7, and there’s no central authority regulating prices.
While some investors have made huge gains, others have lost significant amounts.
Security, regulation, and technology risks are all part of the package, so only invest what you can afford to lose.
Key Data:
- Popular Coins: Bitcoin, Ethereum
- Historical Returns: 20%–50% in some years (highly variable)
- Tax: Flat 30% on gains
- Real Estate (REITs)
REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) allow you to invest in a portfolio of income-generating properties without buying physical real estate. These trusts are listed on the stock exchange, so you can buy and sell units easily.
REITs pay out most of their rental income as dividends, making them attractive for those seeking regular income. They also offer diversification across commercial properties like offices, malls, and warehouses.
REITs are less volatile than stocks but can still fluctuate with the property market. It is one of the best guaranteed return investment plans for beginner investors.
Key Data:
- Minimum Investment: ₹50,000
- Average Returns: 8%–12% annually
- Liquidity: High (exchange-traded)
- Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs)
InvITs are similar to REITs but focus on infrastructure assets like roads, power transmission lines, and telecom towers. By pooling investor money, InvITs fund large-scale projects and distribute most of the income as dividends.
They offer a way to participate in India’s infrastructure growth story without directly owning or managing assets.
InvITs are listed on exchanges, so you can buy or sell units as needed.
They’re best suited for investors looking for steady income and exposure to a different asset class.
Key Data:
- Expected Returns: 8%–10% post-tax
- Liquidity: High (exchange-traded)
- Asset Focus: Infrastructure projects (roads, power, telecom)
High-risk investments can be rewarding, but they’re not for the faint-hearted. If you’re willing to ride out the ups and downs, these options can help you build wealth faster than traditional low-risk plans.
Long-Term Investment Plans in India
Long term investment plans are ideal for individuals who want to build wealth steadily over time. These options benefit from compounding and are perfect for achieving significant financial goals like retirement, children’s education, or buying a home.
Let’s explore each plan in detail, along with its key data points.
- National Pension System (NPS)
NPS is a government-backed retirement solution that combines equity, debt, and government securities to create a balanced portfolio.
It offers flexibility in asset allocation, allowing investors to choose their risk level.
Returns typically range between 8%–10% annually, depending on market conditions and the chosen investment mix.
At retirement, up to 60% of the corpus can be withdrawn tax-free, while the remaining 40% must be used to purchase an annuity.
NPS is an excellent choice for disciplined savers looking for long-term financial security.
Key Data:
- Returns: 8%–10% annually
- Lock-In Period: Till 60 years of age
- Tax: Up to 60% of corpus is tax-free
- RBI Floating Rate Bonds
RBI Floating Rate Bonds adjust their interest rates every six months based on prevailing market conditions, ensuring returns stay competitive. These bonds are ideal for conservative investors seeking predictable income without the risk of market volatility.
The fixed tenure ensures disciplined savings while offering semi-annual interest payouts.
Key Data:
- Tenure: 7 years
- Interest Rate: Linked to market trends (adjusted semi-annually)
- Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs)
SGBs are government securities denominated in grams of gold. They offer dual benefits—gold price appreciation and a fixed annual interest rate of 2.5%, paid semi-annually.
On maturity, there’s no capital gains tax, making SGBs one of the most tax-efficient ways to invest in gold.
They eliminate storage concerns associated with physical gold.
Key Data:
- Lock-In Period: 8 years (exit option after 5 years)
- Interest Rate: Fixed at 2.5% per annum
- Tax: No capital gains tax on maturity
- Pension Plans
Pension plans combine life insurance with long-term investments to ensure a steady income post-retirement. These plans often provide guaranteed returns of 6%–8%, depending on the insurer and policy terms.
PPs also offer death benefits to secure your family’s future in case of unforeseen events.
Pension plans are ideal for individuals seeking financial stability during their golden years.
Key Data:
- Returns: Typically 6%–8% annually
- Lock-In Period: Varies by plan
- Benefits: Guaranteed income stream and life insurance coverage
- Child Plans
Child plans are designed to fund a child’s education or other future expenses. They offer disciplined savings over long tenures, ensuring financial security when needed most.
Returns range from 6%–8%, and many plans include life insurance benefits that ensure the child’s future is protected even if the parent is no longer around.
These are one of the best investment plans in India for future goals of your child.
Key Data:
- Returns: Typically 6%–8% annually
- Tenure: Long-term (varies by plan)
- Benefits: Education funding and life insurance protection
Short-Term Investment Plans in India
Short-term investment plans are best for those who want to invest their money safely and access it within a year or two. These options offer liquidity, low risk, and predictable returns—making them ideal for emergency funds, upcoming expenses, or simply earning more than a regular savings account.
Here’s a detailed look at each plan:
- Treasury Bills (T-Bills)
T-Bills are short-term debt instruments issued by the Government of India. They’re sold at a discount and redeemed at face value upon maturity, making them a safe investment option for conservative investors.
Since they mature in less than a year, T-Bills are perfect for those who want to avoid market volatility and need their money back quickly.
They’re highly liquid and can be bought through banks or the RBI’s online platform.
T-Bills are often used by institutions, but individuals can benefit from their safety and predictable returns as well.
Key Data:
- Maturity: 91, 182, or 364 days
- Returns: 5%–6% annualized
- Backing: Government of India
- Liquidity: High
- Liquid Mutual Funds
Liquid mutual funds invest in short-term money market instruments like treasury bills, commercial paper, and certificates of deposit. They’re designed for investors who want to earn better returns than a savings account without locking in their money.
Redemption is quick—funds are usually credited to your account the next business day.
Liquid funds are a popular choice for parking surplus cash, building an emergency fund, or managing short-term goals.
Key Data:
- Expected Returns: 5%–6% annually
- Minimum Investment: ₹500 (SIP)
- Liquidity: Next-day (T+1)
- Risk: Very low
Liquid Mutual Funds are among best investment plans for 1 year in India.
- Municipal Bonds
Municipal bonds are issued by local government bodies to fund public projects like roads, schools, and water supply. These bonds offer semi-annual interest payments and are often tax-free, making them attractive for investors in higher tax brackets.
With a short lock-in period, municipal bonds provide a balance of safety, regular income, and tax efficiency.
They’re a smart pick for those looking to diversify their fixed-income portfolio with a socially responsible twist.
Key Data:
- Returns: 5%–7% (semi-annual payouts)
- Lock-In: Short (1–2 years)
- Tax: Often tax-free
- Issuer: Local municipalities
Short-term investment plans are all about keeping your money safe, accessible, and working for you—even if only for a few months. They’re a smart way to make your idle cash earn a little extra without taking on unnecessary risk.
High-Interest Investment Options in India
High-interest investment options are for those who want their money to work harder, aiming for returns that outpace inflation and grow wealth faster. These choices come with varying levels of risk, but all offer the potential for better-than-average gains.
Here’s is the list of high-interest investment plans:
- Hybrid Mutual Funds
Hybrid mutual funds blend the growth potential of equities with the stability of debt instruments. By investing in both stocks and bonds, these funds aim to deliver attractive returns while cushioning against market swings.
They’re managed by professionals who adjust the asset mix based on market conditions, making them suitable for investors who want a balanced approach.
Hybrid funds are a great way to enjoy equity upside without taking on full stock market risk.
Key Data:
- Expected Returns: 9%–11% annually
- Asset Mix: Equity + Debt
- Risk: Moderate
- Liquidity: T+2 days for redemption
- Mahila Samman Savings Certificate
This government-backed scheme is tailored exclusively for women, encouraging financial independence and disciplined savings. It offers a fixed, attractive interest rate over a short tenure, making it a safe and rewarding choice for women looking to park their funds for a couple of years.
The scheme is available at post offices and select banks, and the interest is paid out at maturity.
Key Data:
- Interest Rate: 7.5% fixed
- Tenure: 2 years
- Eligibility: Women and girls only
- Backing: Government of India
- P2P Lending
Peer to peer lending platforms connect individual lenders with borrowers, bypassing traditional banks. By lending small amounts to multiple borrowers, investors can diversify their risk and earn higher returns.
Platforms like LenDenClub use technology to assess creditworthiness and manage collections, but there’s always a risk of borrower default.
P2P lending is best for those who understand the risks and want to actively manage their investments.
Key Data:
- Average Returns: 10%–12%
- Minimum Investment: As low as ₹500 per loan
- Risk: Borrower default (platform-dependent)
- Liquidity: Depends on loan tenure
Here are few more options to lend money legally in India you should know about.
- Debt Mutual Funds
Debt mutual funds invest in a mix of government bonds, corporate debentures, and money market instruments. They’re a step up from fixed deposits in terms of returns, while still maintaining a relatively low risk profile.
Debt funds are managed by professionals and offer easy liquidity, making them suitable for both short- and medium-term goals.
They’re also more tax-efficient than FDs if held for over three years.
Key Data:
- Expected Returns: 5%–7% annually
- Asset Class: Government and corporate debt
- Liquidity: T+1 or T+2 days
- Risk: Low to moderate
High-interest investment options can help you grow your wealth faster, but it’s important to match your choice with your risk appetite and investment horizon. A little research and diversification can go a long way in making your money work smarter.
Low-Interest Investment Options in India
Low-interest investment options are best suited for those who value safety and stability over high returns. These plans focus on capital protection, steady income, and peace of mind, making them ideal for conservative investors or those with short-term needs.
Here is the list of best low interest investment plans:
- Life Insurance (Traditional)
Traditional life insurance plans, such as endowment and money-back policies, are designed primarily for financial protection rather than wealth creation. They guarantee a lump sum payout to your family in case of an untimely event, while also offering modest returns on maturity.
These plans often include bonuses declared by the insurer, but the overall returns remain on the lower side.
Life Insurance investments are best for those who want a safety net for their loved ones, with the added benefit of disciplined long-term savings.
Key Data:
- Returns: 4%–6% annually
- Tenure: 10–20 years
- Focus: Life cover + savings
- Bonus: May be included, depending on policy
- Atal Pension Yojana (APY)
APY is a government-backed pension scheme aimed at providing a fixed monthly pension to workers in the unorganized sector after they turn 60.
The pension amount depends on your monthly contributions and the age at which you join.
Contributions are auto-debited from your bank account, making it hassle-free.
The scheme offers tax-free benefits, and the government co-contributes for eligible subscribers.
APY is a solid choice for those seeking a guaranteed income in retirement without market-linked risks.
Key Data:
- Pension: Fixed monthly (₹1,000–₹5,000) after age 60
- Contributions: Vary by entry age and desired pension
- Tax: Tax-free benefits
- Target Group: Unorganized sector workers
- Government Bonds
Government bonds are long-term debt instruments issued by the central or state government. They offer fixed, predictable returns and are considered one of the safest investment avenues.
These bonds are ideal for investors who want to lock in their money for several years and receive regular interest payments.
They can also be traded in the secondary market for liquidity.
Government bonds are a good investment option for anyone seeking low-risk, fixed returns over the long haul.
Key Data:
- Returns: 5%–7% annually
- Tenure: Typically 5–40 years
- Risk: Very low (sovereign guarantee)
- Liquidity: Tradable in secondary market
Low-interest investment options may not make you rich overnight, but they’re reliable, safe, and perfect for building a solid financial foundation.
Conclusion
No matter where you are on your financial journey, the best time to start is now. Pick one good investment plan that fits your needs, set a reminder to review it every year, and don’t be afraid to tweak your approach as life changes.
Even small, regular investments can snowball into something big over time.
Stay curious, ask questions, and keep learning—your future self will thank you for every smart step you take today.
Team LenDenClub
LenDenClub is India’s largest alternate investment platform which started operations in India in 2015. We have been helping investors diversify their investments beyond traditional investment instruments ever since.