The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a popular long-term savings scheme in India, backed by the government. It is aimed at providing small to medium-sized investors with a safe and attractive investment option, coupled with income tax benefits. PPF accounts can be opened at designated banks and post offices in India. The scheme offers a fixed rate of interest that is set by the government every quarter. The investment in PPF qualifies for tax deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, and the interest earned is also tax-free. PPF accounts have a maturity period of 15 years, which can be extended in blocks of 5 years.