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45-Year-Old with 1 Lakh Rupees: What Startup Can I Start for a Better Future?

Chocko

Chocko Valliappa  |475 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Entrepreneur, Educationist - Answered on Sep 16, 2024

Chocko Valliappa is the founder and CEO of Vee Technologies, a global IT services company; HireMee, a talent assessment and talent management start-up; and vice chairman of The Sona Group of education institutions.
A fourth-generation entrepreneur, Valliappa is a member of Confederation of Indian Industry, Nasscom, Entrepreneurs Organization and Young Presidents’ Organization.
He was honoured by the YPO with their Global Social Impact award in 2018.
An alumnus of Christ College, Bangalore, Valliappa holds a degree in textile technology and management from the South India Textile Research Association. His advanced research in the Czech Republic led to the creation of innovative polyester spinning machinery.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Sep 13, 2024Hindi
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Dear Sir,I am 45 year old married with one 10 years son. I have only one lakh rupee in my hand as saving. No loan. Now what startup I can start for better future. Please suggest. Thanks in advance.

Ans: This scanty information is not enough to share any meaningful advice. Do share your qualifications, experience, interest in start up--and of what kind. What is your current salary?
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Chandu

Chandu Nair  |65 Answers  |Ask -

VC, Angel Investing, Entrepreneurship Expert - Answered on Nov 02, 2023

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for past 19 years i am working in a manufacturing company namely Tinplate company of india limited jamshedpur as mechanical engineer i want to do some buniness so that i have some monetory stability and extra income as you know today no one job is fixed forever pl suggest some small business for me so that after i loose my job i can sustain some income
Ans: Mr Azad, you would like to have a side business to generate additional income. You have provided no idea of your skills/expertise/ experience nor of your financial situation (I am guessing that you don't have any surplus to invest in a business).

First and foremost, pl check if your current employer permits moonlighting or having another job even if it is freelance/ gig work. Many companies can take stringent action in this regard.
Second, what skills/expertise/ experience do you have which is distinct from your current job at TCIL? E.g., are you a good writer, or can draw or teach well or translate from one language to another, or cook etc etc. That will help you identify possible alternate income generating possibilities,
Third, how much free time do you have per day? On the weekends? And at what time? That will narrow down the list of ideas.
Fourth, what kind of other infrastructure, manpower support etc is required for the idea? Do you have the ability to get /pay for it? If you don't, you can only do those activities which rely on your time and expertise. You need to be able to give focused attention to it on a sustained business be it tuitions, writing, cooking, generating online content or whatever else you finally choose.
Fifth, do you have access to a set of customers/ buyers who want what you can offer and are willing to pay for it and can you easily reach them?
Once you have gone through these steps, you would have likely identified an idea that can potentially give you an alternate source of income.
Best of luck

..Read more

Harsh

Harsh Bharwani  |79 Answers  |Ask -

Entrepreneurship Expert - Answered on Dec 20, 2024

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my son has completed bba from Bangalore. I can invest around 15 lakhs and iam based in cochin . could u suggest some start up idea ramakant garg
Ans: Since your son has completed his BBA from Bangalore, it is important to align the startup idea with his interests and skills. Start by discussing whether he is interested in pursuing business or further studies. If he is excited to start a venture, his BBA background puts him in a good position for management roles, while Cochin offers opportunities in growing sectors like IT, tourism, and sustainability. Here are some startup ideas that focus on future growth and revenue potential:

First: IT Services or Digital Marketing Agency
If your son is tech-savvy and he is interested in the IT sector, so starting a digital marketing agency or IT services company could be a great choice. Because Cochin has a growing market of small enterprises and medium businesses seeking online visibility through media. You can offer services like social media management, branding, website development and paid marketing. With minimal infrastructure costs and the potential to scale, this business can deliver steady revenue growth.

Second: Eco-Friendly Product Store
With growing awareness about sustainability, a business focused on eco-friendly products such as biodegradable tableware, reusable bags or organic skincare products can be profitable. Cochin residents and tourists alike show a growing preference for sustainable options. This business combines ethical impact with financial potential.

Third: Tourism and Hospitality Services
Given Cochin's appeal as a tourist destination, tourism businesses offering curated travel experiences such as heritage tours, houseboat rentals or adventure packages could flourish even more. This industry has strong revenue potential and scope for expansion, especially with creative offerings.

Fourth: Franchise Business
Investing in a franchise in sectors such as food and beverage, education institutions or wholesale/retail offers the benefit of an established business model. For example, partnering with a recognised brand in education technology or quick-service restaurants can lead to steady growth with low risk.

Fifth: Co-Working Space
If your son is interested in real estate and the workspace sector, starting a co-working space could be a promising venture. With Cochin becoming a startup hub, demand for flexible office spaces is on the rise. This business can provide consistent revenue through memberships.

Before finalizing any idea, conduct a market analysis to identify gaps in the local market. Your son’s active involvement will not only ensure the business aligns with his passion but will also help in building a sustainable venture for long-term growth and success.

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Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8354 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 14, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 13, 2025
Money
What is SIP, Can I start at the age of 55?
Ans: You are asking a very important question. Appreciate your curiosity.

Let’s go step by step.

What is SIP?
SIP means Systematic Investment Plan.

It is a way to invest small amounts every month in a mutual fund.

You can start with as low as Rs.500 per month.

The money gets auto-debited from your bank account.

It helps you build wealth slowly and steadily over time.

Can I Start SIP at Age 55?
Yes, absolutely. You can start SIP even at 55.

There is no age limit to start a SIP.

Many people start SIPs even in their 60s.

What matters more is your investment goal and time horizon.

What Are The Benefits of SIP?
Helps in building corpus gradually.

Gives benefit of rupee cost averaging.

You don’t need to time the market.

Helps in financial discipline.

Can be linked to your retirement goal.

Is SIP Risky?
It depends on where you invest the SIP.

If it’s equity mutual funds, there will be market ups and downs.

But if held for long, they can give better returns than FD or gold.

Debt mutual fund SIPs are more stable but give lower returns.

How Long Should I Stay Invested?
Try to stay invested for at least 5 to 10 years.

Even at age 55, you can stay invested till age 65 or 70.

Retirement doesn't mean stopping SIPs. You can continue post-retirement too, if income allows.

Where Should I Start SIP?
Since you asked, let me also highlight something important.

If someone told you to invest in direct mutual funds, here’s what you need to know:

Why Regular Mutual Funds are Better than Direct Funds for You?
Direct plans look cheaper, but they don’t give personal guidance.

At age 55, wrong fund choice can cost you years of savings.

Regular mutual funds bought through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offer ongoing review, advice, and goal-based support.

CFPs help you align investments with your needs—like retirement, health, or your son’s wedding.

The small fee involved in regular funds is worth the peace of mind and expert care.

Should You Do Equity or Debt SIP?
This depends on your needs.

If you have more than 7 years, then equity mutual funds are better.

If you need money in 3 to 5 years, then hybrid or debt funds are better.

Do not put all money in one category. Balance it.

SIP is Not a Product – It is a Mode
This is often misunderstood.

SIP is not a fund or product.

It is a way to invest in a fund in small regular steps.

You can do SIP in equity fund, debt fund, or hybrid fund.

Can I Stop SIP Anytime?
Yes. You can pause or stop SIP anytime.

You are not locked in (except for tax-saving SIPs).

Flexibility is a major advantage of SIPs.

Should You Start SIP at 55?
Yes, and here’s why:

You still have more than 25 years of life ahead.

Life expectancy is increasing. You need money even after retirement.

SIP gives you an edge to build that retirement income.

Don't wait for perfect time. Start small, and scale up later.

How to Start?
First, consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP).

They will assess your goals, risks, and duration.

Then they will recommend right mutual funds and SIP amount.

Make sure the SIP aligns with your retirement income needs.

What Mistakes to Avoid?
Don’t go only by past performance.

Don’t do SIP in random funds or based on friends’ advice.

Avoid direct funds unless you can manage everything yourself.

Don’t withdraw early unless necessary.

What If You Need Monthly Income Later?
After few years, SIP can be turned into SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan).

SIP builds the wealth, SWP gives you monthly income post-retirement.

This helps create regular cash flow, like pension.

Final Insights
SIP is simple, flexible and useful at any age.

55 is not too late. It is a perfect time to start.

Retirement may come soon. Start preparing today with small, consistent steps.

SIP is not magic. It needs patience, time, and guidance.

Let your money work even when you rest.

Take professional support from a Certified Financial Planner. That ensures peace of mind.

Best Regards,
 
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
 
Chief Financial Planner,
 
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Prof Suvasish

Prof Suvasish Mukhopadhyay  |642 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on May 14, 2025

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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