In response to recent media reports and public concerns, the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance has issued a clear statement:
No instructions have been issued to banks to close inactive PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) accounts.
This clarification comes after several rumors and social media posts claimed that banks were closing Jan Dhan accounts that remained inactive for a long period.
Here’s what the official statement says, and what account holders need to know.
What Did the Government Say?
According to the official press release dated 17 July 2025, published by the Press Information Bureau (PIB):
- No instructions have been issued to close any Jan Dhan accounts, whether active or inactive.
- The PMJDY scheme is designed to promote financial inclusion, and its focus is to encourage account usage, not closure.
- Banks have been advised to continue their efforts to reach out to account holders, especially in remote and rural areas.
🔗 Official PIB Source – Read Full Statement
What is PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)?
Launched in August 2014, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana is the world’s largest financial inclusion initiative. It aims to provide every Indian household with access to basic banking services.
Key Features of PMJDY:
- Zero balance savings accounts
- Free RuPay debit card
- Accidental insurance cover
- Overdraft facility after satisfactory usage
- Direct benefit transfers (DBT) for subsidies and government schemes
As of 2025, over 50 crore beneficiaries are enrolled under PMJDY.
Why Did This Rumor Start?
Recently, several unverified news reports and social media messages claimed:
“Banks have been asked to freeze or close inactive Jan Dhan accounts.”
This created panic among account holders, especially in rural areas. Many feared losing access to subsidies, pensions, or direct benefit transfers.
The Ministry of Finance has now officially denied these claims, stating that no such instructions were issued.
Government’s Clarification Highlights
| Claim | Official Clarification |
|---|---|
| Inactive Jan Dhan accounts to be closed | ❌ No such direction has been given |
| Banks freezing zero-balance accounts | ❌ Banks have not been instructed to freeze accounts |
| Account holders must visit bank to prevent closure | ❌ No compulsion or closure notice issued |
Instead, the government is focusing on encouraging usage by educating people about the benefits of keeping their accounts active.
What Should Jan Dhan Account Holders Do?
The government encourages beneficiaries to:
- Use their accounts regularly for transactions
- Link Aadhaar and mobile number (if not already linked)
- Be cautious of fake messages or rumors regarding account status
- Visit their bank branch in case of any doubt or concern
Remember: No Jan Dhan account will be closed automatically due to inactivity.
Statement from Department of Financial Services
“DFS has not issued any direction to banks for closure of accounts opened under PMJDY. The aim is to promote financial empowerment, not exclusion.”
This strong clarification aims to reassure beneficiaries and maintain public trust in India’s flagship financial inclusion mission.
FAQs
🔹 Is my Jan Dhan account safe if I haven’t used it in months?
Yes. No account will be closed due to inactivity, according to the Ministry of Finance.
🔹 Do I need to maintain a minimum balance?
No. PMJDY accounts are zero-balance savings accounts. There is no penalty for low balance.
🔹 Can I still receive DBT and subsidies if my account is inactive?
Yes, as long as your account is linked to Aadhaar and is operational. You may visit the bank to verify if needed.
🔹 What should I do if I get a message claiming my account will be closed?
Ignore and report such fake messages. Always rely on official sources like PIB or your bank’s branch.
Conclusion
The Government of India has clearly stated that no PMJDY account will be closed due to inactivity. This move reaffirms the government’s commitment to financial inclusion and protecting the interests of the poor and marginalized.
Beneficiaries should remain vigilant against rumors and rely only on official communications.
🔗 ✅ Click here to read the official press release from PIB
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This article is based on official information released by the Government of India through PIB. Always verify through your bank branch or the official government website before acting on any financial communication.