New Delhi, March 14 -- The public provident fund (PPF) is a top choice when planning your finances for retirement. Launched in 1986 by the government of India, is a reliable instrument with consistent, long-term returns.

PPF is a low-risk, government backed savings scheme with generally higher interest rate and tax-exempt interest payout, making it an effective instrument to build wealth over a longer period of time. It is an EEE benefit tool - exempt investment, exempt maturity amount, exempt interest earned.

At a fixed interest rate of 7.1% this quarter, it is among the safest investment options for retirement and tax planning in India.

A PPF account is offered by any post office or public bank and some private banks in India, for a ...