What are some good investment schemes apart from PPF and mutual funds?

Two schemes are good options for you. PPF and mutual funds fit into two classes of investments – fixed income and equity respectively. Besides these you can consider:

1. Sovereign Gold Bonds to make up 5% to 10% of your portfolio. I invest in these myself as a hedge against inflation and any volatility in global markets. They provide some interest income, as well as liquidity and low investment costs.
2. In fixed income, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is good, offering the highest return (higher than PPF) and tax exemption at redemption.