Teenager's Confusion: Should I Take a Drop Year After Scoring 65 Percentile in JEE Mains?

Ans: Digital and AI can be incorporated in stages in your organisation to make it a quick response

Ans: Get somebody with knowledge to explain to you how crop and seeds planning can help you in farming. No point in trying to be an AI expert yourself.

Ans: AI will certainly impact every HR function from recruiting to career planning to learning management ( look at www.skillsalpha.com). Identifying future leaders should still be done by the "human in the loop" but the provision of actionable insights and leadership development can certainly be a role of AI.

Ans: Hi Radha,
The NTA has not yet announced the results and rankings for NEET, so we need to wait for more accurate predictions. Based on your estimate, there are only a few possibilities for semi-government medical colleges. However, this depends on the cutoff scores of the respective colleges.

BEST WISHES.
POOCHO. LIFE CHANGE KARO!

Ans: Hi Isank,
The NTA has not yet announced the results and rankings for NEET, so we need to wait for more accurate predictions. A score of 166 in the NEET 2025 EXAM would be qualifying for the general category based on the expected cutoff range. will qualify for the general category.
BEST WISHES.
POOCHO. LIFE CHANGE KARO!

Ans: With a VITEEE rank of 1,46,000, securing admission to VIT AP is challenging for premium courses like Computer Science Engineering (CSE) or Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), as their expected 2025 cutoffs range between 25,000–140,000 ranks for general category candidates. However, opportunities exist in higher fee categories (Categories 3–5) for less competitive branches. Mechanical Engineering emerges as a viable option, with historical cutoffs extending up to 140,000 ranks, while specialized programs like Robotics Engineering, Embedded Systems, or interdisciplinary fields may also accommodate this rank in higher fee slabs. The university’s category-based admission system allows candidates with ranks beyond core course cutoffs to secure seats by opting for elevated fee structures (INR 1.98–4.98 lakh/year), though Category 1 admissions for most branches typically close below 1.6 lakh ranks. Candidates should prioritize non-core engineering disciplines during counseling, considering Mechanical Engineering as the primary choice and exploring emerging specializations, while preparing financially for higher category fees. All the BEST for your Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Ans: I understand you are under stress. Let us take one step at a time and resolve this in a practical, responsible way.

1. Understand the Situation Fully
You had multiple EMIs to manage.

By mistake, you paid off one loan in full.

Now, you have no money left for other EMIs.

The NBFC where you made the full payment is not refunding the extra amount.

They are saying the loan is marked as "closed" in their system.

This needs a calm and systematic resolution. There are still a few strong options left.

2. Immediate Steps You Can Take Today
Check if the extra payment is clearly visible in your account.
– Go through your payment proof and NBFC loan account statement.
– If the payment went above what was due, you have a valid case.

Visit or speak to the NBFC branch again.
– Show them the extra payment record.
– Politely explain this was a mistake.

Request refund under "excess payment" grounds.
– If the loan was closed early due to overpayment, NBFC may still refund surplus.
– Submit a written request for refund and get an acknowledgment.

Check their grievance redressal mechanism.
– Every NBFC has a nodal officer or escalation contact.
– If the branch does not help, write to higher authority.

Send a written complaint by email or registered post.
– Clearly mention loan number, payment date, and your request.
– Keep a copy for yourself.

3. Escalate the Matter if No Response in 7 Working Days
File a complaint on the NBFC’s website (grievance section).

After that, go to the RBI’s CMS (Complaint Management System):
– https://cms.rbi.org.in

You can file a complaint if:
– Your loan account was overpaid.
– You requested refund.
– NBFC has not responded in time.

RBI’s system allows complaint against NBFCs and banks.

4. What to Do About Your Other EMIs Now
Inform other lenders before default.
– Call or write to other lenders.
– Explain the situation in brief.
– Request for short-term deferment or one-month moratorium.

Lenders may allow one missed EMI without penalty if you have a good repayment record.
– Ask them to reschedule EMI or shift the due date.

If delay is certain, request a 3-month EMI break with written communication.
– This avoids legal notices or credit score impact.

5. If Situation Becomes Too Tight
Ask for support from your employer if possible.
– Request for salary advance or short-term loan.
– Even a Rs. 50,000 support can help you meet urgent EMI.

Check if any FD, gold, or savings can be used.
– Gold loans are cheaper and quicker to process.
– Only do this for urgent EMI dues, not for regular lifestyle.

6. Plan Forward to Avoid This in Future
Use auto debit or standing instruction for loans.
– Manual payments often lead to errors or missed payments.

Always keep 1 month EMI buffer in your account.
– This avoids sudden cash gaps.

Use a loan tracker sheet to monitor all your EMIs monthly.
– A simple Excel sheet or app can help.

Set SMS alerts or reminders for each EMI due date.

Don’t pay loan closure amount without checking final settlement letter.
– Ask for loan closure quote from NBFC before making full payment.

7. You May Still Recover the Overpaid Amount
If excess money is paid beyond the loan balance, it is refundable.

NBFC must account for it.

Even if the system says "closed", your transaction can be traced.

You must push this through their grievance officer and escalate if needed.

Stay polite but firm in all communication.

Finally
You made a mistake — but it can be corrected.

Don't panic. Don’t miss all EMIs without trying alternatives.

Take control of the situation through records and clear requests.

Reach out to RBI CMS if NBFC does not respond.

Meanwhile, protect your credit score by speaking to other lenders in time.

It’s a short-term setback, not a permanent problem.

This will pass. Just keep calm and act step by step.

You’re doing the right thing by asking for help and acting early.

?
Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

Ans: You have built a strong foundation.

Rs. 150 crore in assets at age 40 is a big milestone.

Rs. 10 lakh monthly income from business is a very good cash flow.

Your modest monthly expense of Rs. 1.5 lakh is very reasonable.

Your money habits show discipline, simplicity, and clarity.

You are well-positioned to grow further with a proper structure.

Let’s plan ahead in a complete, 360-degree manner.

We will now look at each area of your financial life.

1. Understanding Your Current Financial Strength

You own assets worth Rs. 150 crore.

95% of it is in real estate, only 5% is liquid.

You earn Rs. 10 lakh monthly through business.

Your spending is Rs. 1.5 lakh per month.

You have a daughter who is 6 years old.

Your car loan EMI is included in your current expenses.

This is a strong position, but not yet balanced.

2. Maintain a Balance Between Liquid and Non-Liquid Assets

Your current portfolio is heavy in real estate.

Real estate is illiquid. It takes time to sell.

It is also difficult to generate regular cash flow from property.

Future maintenance costs and taxes reduce net gains.

Aim to increase your liquid asset share gradually.

At least 20%-30% of your wealth should be in liquid form.

That helps during emergencies or new opportunities.

Do this in a phased manner over 3 to 5 years.

3. Create a Strong Emergency Reserve

You may not need an emergency fund for daily needs.

But business income can fluctuate sometimes.

Unexpected health or family emergencies may arise.

Set aside at least Rs. 25–30 lakh in liquid form.

Use short-term debt mutual funds or savings instruments.

This should not be touched for investing or spending.

Review the emergency fund every year and top it up.

4. Fix a Personal Budget Framework

Income is Rs. 10 lakh per month.

Spending is Rs. 1.5 lakh per month.

That’s just 15% of your income, which is great.

Keep lifestyle inflation under 5% per year.

Avoid sudden jumps in spending even if income rises.

Save and invest at least 50% of your income every month.

This helps you reach bigger goals comfortably.

5. Education Plan for Your Daughter

Your daughter is just 6 years old now.

Higher education may cost Rs. 1–2 crore in 12–15 years.

Start a separate investment plan only for her.

Use mutual funds for long-term compounding.

A mix of large-cap, flexi-cap, and mid-cap funds can help.

Invest systematically every month towards her goal.

Track progress every year and adjust as needed.

6. Plan Your Own Retirement Early

You are financially free already.

You can choose to retire anytime after 50.

You may continue business if it brings joy.

Or retire early and do something meaningful.

Retirement is not about stopping work but choosing freedom.

Estimate your retirement lifestyle cost in today’s value.

Multiply by expected years in retirement.

Plan your corpus accordingly with growth-oriented funds.

Keep reviewing this every two years.

7. Shift From Real Estate to Financial Assets Gradually

Real estate doesn’t give regular income easily.

Capital growth is also very slow and uncertain now.

Selling real estate is difficult and slow.

Start liquidating less-used real estate in phases.

Don’t sell all at once, spread it over years.

Reinvest proceeds in mutual funds and bonds.

That creates regular income and better flexibility.

8. Maintain a Simple Core Portfolio

Focus more on high-quality actively managed mutual funds.

Direct funds may look cheaper, but no expert support.

Regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner give full guidance.

MFDs with CFP credentials give constant monitoring and support.

Active funds can beat inflation and market returns better.

Avoid index funds as they only match the market.

Index funds don’t protect during market falls.

Actively managed funds can rebalance and reduce losses.

Choose fund categories based on your goals.

Use SIPs and lumpsum in a balanced way.

9. Tax-Efficient Strategies for Your Income and Investments

Your income will attract higher income tax.

You can split income across family members through smart planning.

Invest in tax-efficient instruments.

Avoid too much FD interest in your own name.

Use mutual funds for long-term tax efficiency.

LTCG from equity funds above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

STCG is taxed at 20%.

Debt fund gains are taxed as per your slab.

So asset choice impacts your tax outgo.

10. Have a Health and Life Cover in Place

You are young, but health risks can appear anytime.

Get a comprehensive family floater health cover.

Add top-up or super-top-up for large expenses.

Take a simple term life cover if any financial dependents.

ULIPs or investment-based insurance plans are not useful.

If already holding such plans, consider surrendering.

Reinvest the proceeds into mutual funds for better growth.

11. Secure Your Estate and Create a Will

You own multiple large assets.

Legal clarity is very important.

Prepare a clear will with proper asset distribution.

Avoid confusion and future disputes.

If assets are very large or complex, set up a trust.

Review your estate plan every 5 years.

Keep nominee names updated across all investments.

12. Plan for Lifestyle Inflation and Business Risk

Expenses today are low. But they will rise slowly.

Factor in lifestyle upgrades, child needs, and inflation.

Business income can be uncertain in the long term.

Start preparing for a passive income portfolio now.

Allocate part of business profits to long-term investments.

Create multiple sources of income for safety.

13. Document Your Finances and Share With Family

Maintain a full record of your investments.

Document policies, FDs, mutual funds, and property details.

Share access and instructions with your spouse or close family.

Train your spouse to handle basic financial tasks.

This avoids confusion in emergencies.

14. Regular Financial Health Check-Up

Have a review meeting once a year.

See if goals are on track.

Check asset allocation and rebalance as needed.

Reassess insurance and emergency needs.

Adjust investments based on business growth or expenses.

A Certified Financial Planner can guide you through this.

Finally

You are already financially independent at 40.

You can retire early, or choose to keep working joyfully.

You have the ability to live with peace and flexibility.

But wealth preservation is as important as wealth creation.

Plan your child’s future with care and attention.

Avoid unnecessary risks in real estate or unregulated products.

Grow your liquid assets and create a balanced portfolio.

Keep your taxes low and your peace of mind high.

Take support from a Certified Financial Planner.

And do regular reviews to stay updated.

You have done very well. Now is the time to plan smartly ahead.

Live with purpose, peace, and prosperity.

?
Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

Ans: You have a strong financial base. You own a house, have Rs. 60 lakhs in fixed deposits, and invest Rs. 1 lakh monthly in a recurring deposit. After these commitments, you have Rs. 75,000 left each month. As a government employee aged 40, aiming for Rs. 5 crores in 10 years is ambitious but achievable with the right strategy.

Let's break down a comprehensive plan to help you reach your goal.

1. Assessing Your Current Financial Position

Fixed Deposits (FDs): Rs. 60 lakhs in FDs provide safety but offer limited growth due to lower interest rates.

Recurring Deposit (RD): Investing Rs. 1 lakh monthly in RD is commendable, but RDs also offer modest returns.

Monthly Surplus: Rs. 75,000 remains after RD and other expenses, which can be strategically utilized.

2. Understanding the Growth Potential

FDs and RDs: Typically offer 5-7% annual returns, which may not suffice to reach Rs. 5 crores in 10 years.

Equity Investments: Historically, equity investments have provided higher returns, averaging around 12-15% annually over the long term.

3. Strategic Asset Allocation

To achieve higher returns, consider diversifying your investments:

Equity Mutual Funds: Allocate a significant portion to equity mutual funds for potential higher returns.

Debt Instruments: Maintain a portion in debt instruments for stability and liquidity.

Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses.

4. Utilizing Monthly Surplus Effectively

With Rs. 75,000 available monthly:

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): Start a SIP in equity mutual funds with a portion of this surplus.

Step-Up SIP: Consider increasing your SIP amount annually to accelerate growth.

5. Reviewing and Adjusting RD Contributions

RD vs. SIP: Evaluate the returns from your RD against potential SIP returns. Redirecting some RD contributions to SIPs might offer better growth.

6. Tax Efficiency

Tax-Saving Instruments: Utilize tax-saving options under Section 80C, such as Equity-Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS).

Capital Gains Tax: Be aware of the tax implications on mutual fund returns and plan accordingly.

7. Regular Portfolio Review

Annual Review: Assess your investment portfolio annually to ensure alignment with your goals.

Rebalancing: Adjust your asset allocation based on market performance and personal circumstances.

8. Professional Guidance

Certified Financial Planner (CFP): Consult a CFP to tailor an investment strategy suited to your risk tolerance and goals.

9. Risk Management

Insurance: Ensure adequate life and health insurance coverage to protect your financial plan.

Diversification: Spread investments across various sectors and instruments to mitigate risks.

10. Staying Informed and Disciplined

Financial Literacy: Continuously educate yourself about investment options and market trends.

Discipline: Maintain consistent investment habits and avoid impulsive financial decisions.

Final Insights

Achieving Rs. 5 crores in 10 years is challenging but possible with disciplined investing, strategic asset allocation, and regular portfolio reviews. By leveraging your current financial position and making informed investment choices, you can work towards your goal effectively.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment