As of October 2025 (based on the September 2025 revision), the National Savings Schemes (NSC) in Pakistan are offering profit rates between 9.92 % and 13.58 %. The Defence Savings Certificate now offers 11.42 % per annum, while the Short-Term Savings Certificate stands at 10.42 %, according to the Central Directorate of National Savings (CDNS). These updated rates remain effective nationwide until the next government notification.
What Are NSC Rates?
The NSC rates refer to the profit percentages paid to investors by the National Savings division under the Government of Pakistan. These savings plans, such as Defence, Behbood, and Regular Income Certificates, are low-risk investments that provide steady returns compared to volatile stock or forex markets.
Latest NSC Profit Rates (Effective September 17, 2025)
Below are the officially revised profit rates for key National Savings schemes active in October 2025:
| Scheme Name | Profit Rate (Annual) | Change |
| Defence Savings Certificate (DSC) | 11.42 % | Decreased from 11.54 % |
| Short-Term Savings Certificate (STSC) | 10.42 % | Slightly increased |
| Sarwa Islamic Term Account | 9.92 % | Increased from 9.50 % |
| Regular Income Certificate (RIC) | ~11.52 % | Stable since mid-2025 |
| Behbood Savings Certificate (BSC) | ~13.58 % | Unchanged |
| Savings Account | 9.50 % | Stable rate |
These rates are adjusted according to the State Bank of Pakistan’s policy rate and national inflation trends.
Earnings Example
An investment of Rs 100,000 in a Short-Term Savings Certificate at 10.42 % earns about Rs 10,420 per year, or roughly Rs 868 per month. Meanwhile, a Behbood Savings Certificate at 13.58 % gives an annual return of Rs 13,580, offering a stable income stream for senior citizens.
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Why Rates Were Revised
The CDNS revised rates in September 2025 after the State Bank of Pakistan kept its policy rate at 11 %. The adjustment ensures government-backed savings remain attractive compared to bank deposits while aligning with macroeconomic conditions and inflation control.
Historical Rate Trend 2024–2025
Tracking the National Savings profit rate trend helps investors understand how returns evolved over time.
| Period | Behbood Certificate | Defence Certificate | Short-Term Certificate | RIC |
| January 2024 | 14.16 % | 12.20 % | 11.04 % | 12.00 % |
| May 2024 | 13.92 % | 11.96 % | 10.75 % | 11.80 % |
| August 2024 | 13.76 % | 11.82 % | 10.68 % | 11.70 % |
| February 2025 | 13.58 % | 11.54 % | 10.36 % | 11.52 % |
| September 2025 (Current) | 13.58 % | 11.42 % | 10.42 % | 11.52 % |
The downward trend across most schemes shows a gradual normalization after high returns during 2023–24, as Pakistan’s economy stabilized and inflation cooled.
Best NSC Schemes for 2025
- Behbood Savings Certificate: Highest profit rate, ideal for senior citizens.
- Defence Savings Certificate: Best for long-term secure returns.
- Short-Term Savings Certificate: Flexible for short-term goals.
- Sarwa Islamic Accounts: Suitable for Shariah-compliant investors.
Each scheme has unique tenures and profit options; always select based on your income goals and liquidity needs.
How to Check and Calculate Returns
Visit the official CDNS website – www.savings.gov.pk – to verify the latest profit rates and use the National Savings profit calculator to estimate monthly or annual income for any deposit amount.
Conclusion
The NSC rates for October 2025 demonstrate stable yet competitive returns, reflecting Pakistan’s improving financial outlook. With profits ranging from 9.50 % to 13.58 %, National Savings remains the most reliable option for investors seeking secure, government-guaranteed income. Always check the official CDNS notifications for future rate changes.
FAQs
Q1: What is the current NSC rate in Pakistan?
The NSC rates range from 9.92 % to 13.58 %, depending on the savings product.
Q2: What is the profit rate of Behbood Savings Certificate?
The Behbood Certificate offers 13.58 % annual profit, the highest among all schemes.
Q3: What is the Defence Savings Certificate rate now?
The Defence Certificate provides a return of 11.42 % per annum as of October 2025.
Q4: What is the Regular Income Certificate rate?
The RIC profit rate remains around 11.52 % per annum.
Q5: Where can I check National Savings profit rates officially?
All rates and calculators are available on savings.gov.pk under the Profit Rates section.
