Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday marked the 11th anniversary of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), describing the scheme as a transformative step that empowered citizens and gave them the ability to shape their own future.
“When the last mile is financially connected, the entire nation moves forward together. That is exactly what the PM Jan Dhan Yojana achieved. It enhanced dignity and gave people the power to script their own destiny,” PM Modi said in a social media post.
Since its launch on August 28, 2014, PMJDY has grown into the world’s largest financial inclusion programme. According to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, over 56 crore Jan Dhan accounts have been opened in the last 11 years, accumulating deposits worth ₹2.68 lakh crore. She also highlighted that more than 38 crore free RuPay cards have been issued, promoting digital payments across the country.
Underscoring the scheme’s inclusivity, Sitharaman noted that 67% of the accounts are in rural or semi-urban areas and 56% belong to women, reflecting how previously underserved communities have been brought into the banking fold.
She further said that PMJDY has become a key channel for Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT), enabling the delivery of subsidies, credit facilities, social security, and other welfare schemes directly to beneficiaries.
Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary called PMJDY a landmark reform. “The Jan Dhan Yojana is about dignity, empowerment, and opportunity. It is one of the most successful financial inclusion initiatives not just in India, but globally,” he said.
Chaudhary also announced an ongoing saturation campaign under which at least one camp will be held in each of the country’s 2.7 lakh gram panchayats. These camps will allow eligible individuals to open new accounts, enrol in Jansuraksha schemes, update nominations, and complete re-KYC formalities. The drive will run until September 30.
With continued support from banks, insurers, and state governments, the Minister of State said India is moving steadily towards a more financially inclusive society. “PMJDY will always be remembered as a game changer in the country’s financial journey,” he added.