Home > Career > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10925 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 12, 2025

Nayagam is a certified career counsellor and the founder of EduJob360.
He started his career as an HR professional and has over 10 years of experience in tutoring and mentoring students from Classes 8 to 12, helping them choose the right stream, course and college/university.
He also counsels students on how to prepare for entrance exams for getting admission into reputed universities /colleges for their graduate/postgraduate courses.
He has guided both fresh graduates and experienced professionals on how to write a resume, how to prepare for job interviews and how to negotiate their salary when joining a new job.
Nayagam has published an eBook, Professional Resume Writing Without Googling.
He has a postgraduate degree in human resources from Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, Delhi, a postgraduate diploma in labour law from Madras University, a postgraduate diploma in school counselling from Symbiosis, Pune, and a certification in child psychology from Counsel India.
He has also completed his master’s degree in career counselling from ICCC-Mindler and Counsel, India.
... more
Livaansh Question by Livaansh on Aug 12, 2025Hindi
Career

Sir my son got IIm sambalpur bs in data science and artificial intelligence program newly launched program by IIM Sambalpur, he also joined in state counseling JECREC CSE 2025, now in csab he got BIT mesra ranchi b.sc. m.sc. quantitative economic and data science 5 year programme with new education policy exit after 3 and 4 years, which is better to get a placement academic, future study, reputation, please tell me and which done we will take please give me suggestion,

Ans: The Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at IIM Sambalpur is a pioneering fully residential four-year program designed to develop future-ready professionals with strong expertise in mathematics, statistics, computing, and AI, integrated with management principles. It emphasizes rigorous academics, hands-on industry projects, ethical AI, and entrepreneurial skills, positioning graduates well for tech-centric roles and further research. Supported by the institute’s national importance, faculty excellence, industry collaborations, and emerging placement success with major recruiters, this program offers cutting-edge technology exposure and interdisciplinary learning. In contrast, BIT Mesra Ranchi’s five-year integrated B.Sc.-M.Sc. in Quantitative Economics and Data Science, aligned with the New Education Policy's flexible exit options, blends core economics and data science, delivering solid infrastructure, experienced faculty, and about 80% placement rates including roles in data analytics and related fields. Its longer duration supports deep domain expertise and quantitative research, catering well to both academic and industry aspirations. Both programs hold strong reputations in their domains— IIM Sambalpur stands out for innovation and AI specialization while BIT Mesra excels in interdisciplinary quantitative economics with longer academic grounding.

Recommendation: Prioritize IIM Sambalpur’s BS in Data Science and AI for cutting-edge technology training, interdisciplinary exposure, and strong future tech career potential. Follow with BIT Mesra’s integrated Quantitative Economics and Data Science for depth in economics data skills, extended study, and versatile academic-industry options. Choose based on whether the focus is on AI-driven tech innovation or comprehensive quantitative economic analytics.

Order of priority: IIM Sambalpur BS Data Science & AI, BIT Mesra Integrated M.Sc. Quantitative Economics & Data Science. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.
Career

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10925 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Career
Respected Sir, my son has provisionally secured admission in the Integrated Artificial Intelligence program at VIT Bhopal, and in Core Computer Science and Engineering at Amity University Gwalior and LNCT Bhopal (Main Campus). His JEE Main CRL rank is above 100,000. Based on this, kindly suggest which option would be the best, and what should we do regarding CSAB counseling."
Ans: Among the available options for your son—VIT Bhopal’s Integrated Artificial Intelligence, Core Computer Science and Engineering at Amity University Gwalior, and LNCT Bhopal Main Campus—each offers distinctive program strengths, but they differ in national standing, academic exposure, and industry integration. VIT Bhopal’s five-year Integrated M.Tech. in Artificial Intelligence delivers a dual-degree program emphasizing hands-on experience, advanced AI/ML curriculum, and robust engagement with research, capstone projects, and internships. The program’s ties with leading tech companies provide significant project and employment exposure, and its campus boasts modern computing facilities and collaborative industry events. Amity University Gwalior’s B.Tech CSE, NAAC ‘A’ grade accredited and ranked in NIRF 2024 (#201-300), is known for its industry-oriented curriculum with specializations in AI, ML, cyber security, and more, placing strong emphasis on internships and skill development; the placement cell has maintained about 80–90% placement rates in the CSE branch in recent years, with access to major recruiters and a vibrant campus environment. LNCT Bhopal, one of central India’s most established private technical institutes, offers a competitively priced B.Tech CSE program that aligns closely with core industry requirements, providing collaborations with technology majors such as Oracle and IBM, and consistent placement rates around 75–85%, with the advantage of large annual intake and an expansive recruiter network.

Regarding CSAB counselling for JEE Main CRL above 100,000, the likelihood of securing CSE or top branches in NITs, IIITs, or GFTIs is extremely low, as the most recent cutoffs for even newer or remote campuses in CSAB special rounds have tended to close well below the 100,000 mark for CSE, with most NITs and IIITs closing their CSE branches under 60,000–70,000. Some peripheral GFTIs or newer IIITs may admit at higher ranks, but offerings are typically in lower-demand streams or less central locations, and competition remains fierce for computer science-based programs. However, CSAB remains an avenue for backup exploration and should still be attempted until the final rounds, in case of changes in seat availability or candidate withdrawal.

Recommendation: Prioritize VIT Bhopal’s Integrated Artificial Intelligence for its cutting-edge interdisciplinary focus, advanced learning pathways, and research-driven orientation, offering future-ready skills in a rapidly expanding domain. Next, consider Amity University Gwalior’s CSE for its NIRF ranking, strong campus placements, and multiple specialization tracks, especially if your son prefers a pure computer science degree in a polished urban campus. LNCT Bhopal’s CSE should be the third choice, valued for its affordability, solid placement record, and breadth of industry connections within central India. Simultaneously, participate in CSAB special rounds but keep expectations realistic about CSE/IT options, making early decisions on private college premium seats as soon as possible for best outcomes. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

..Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10925 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 07, 2025

Career
Sir My son got opportunity to get admission in RVCE in ECE, BMSCE, in ECE and BIT Jaipur ECE and now yesterday get confirmation admission in IIM Sambalpur 4 year BS in Data science and AI, which should consider for future, please advise us.
Ans: Arvind Sir, RVCE’s ECE program at Bangalore leads with NBA accreditation, experienced faculty, state-of-the-art labs, and placement rates above ninety percent, attracting core electronics and software recruiters. BMSCE ECE in Bengaluru offers a balanced curriculum, strong industry linkages, and placements near eighty-five percent, supported by an active alumni network. BIT Jaipur’s ECE merges traditional electronics education with emerging technology modules, yielding placement rates around eighty percent and growing industry collaborations. IIM Sambalpur’s four-year BS in Data Science and AI is an innovative offering from an IIM, featuring a data-driven curriculum, mentorship by esteemed faculty, modern analytics labs, and partnerships with tech firms; though placement data is still emerging, graduates are positioned for high-growth roles in analytics, machine learning, and AI research. Each institution provides robust academic frameworks, quality infrastructure, research exposure, soft-skills development, and student support, but they diverge in legacy reputation, specialization focus, and immediate industry reach.

Recommendation: Prioritize RVCE ECE for its proven placements and comprehensive industry exposure, followed by BMSCE ECE for its balanced environment. IIM Sambalpur’s BS in Data Science and AI is ideal for those targeting cutting-edge data roles despite a nascent placement record. Consider BIT Jaipur ECE for a cost-effective blend of traditional and emerging ECE domains. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1856 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Feb 26, 2026

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11044 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 26, 2026

Money
Hi Ramalingam Sir, Very fond of your guidance. I`ve invested in ICICI Prudential Guranteed Income Plan with PPT of 10 Years & Policy Term is 11 Years. The Yearly Premium is 5 lakhs with Guaranteed Early Income i.e which started from 2nd year onwards is 1.19 Lacs. After 11th year Guaranteed Yearly Income will be 6.38 Lacs. I started this Policy in 2022. Very soon I realized that this is not worth of investing my money. I decided to stop Premium after 2 years which made my Policy as Paid up status which means all benefits are reduced but Policy is Active. I changed myself as I did mistakes in Past (by taking this policy) and now I read each clause very carefully. Now in this case If i surrender, the Surrender value is calculated based on Guaranteed factor X Total premium paid - Income already Paid. Now currently Surrender value is 2.9 Lacs as GV factor is 50%. This factor will improve Gradually with time and by 9th year it will went to 90%. I want to Surrender but now will incur heavy loss (approx. 4.8 lacs) ( to me while in 9th year at least I`ll get 90% of my Premiums back. So pl. advice what is right approach as when should i think for Surrender. As of now by God grace I`m not in any financial emergency. Further is my understanding correct that SV will rise with time. Thanks in advance for your guidance.
Ans: It is very good that you have started reading your policy papers so closely now. Most people do not take the time to understand the fine print, but you have already taken a big step by identifying that this plan does not match your long-term goals. Your ability to stop the premium early shows you are now in control of your money.

» Understanding your paid-up policy and surrender value

Your understanding of how the Surrender Value (SV) works is mostly right. In these types of plans, the Guaranteed Surrender Value factor does go up as the years pass. However, there is a catch. While the percentage factor increases, the insurance company also deducts the income they have already paid out to you from the final amount. Even if you wait until the 9th year to get 90% of your premiums back, you are losing out on the "time value" of that money. Money sitting in a low-yield environment for nine years loses its buying power because of inflation.

» The math behind surrendering now versus later

If you surrender today, you take a big loss of Rs. 4.8 lakhs. This feels painful. But if you keep the money locked in just to avoid the loss, you are essentially letting the company hold your remaining Rs. 2.9 lakhs for several more years at a very low return. A 360-degree view suggests that if you take the money out now and put it into a productive asset like a diversified portfolio of actively managed mutual funds, that money can work much harder for you. Actively managed funds are great because a professional fund manager chooses the best stocks to beat the market, unlike other options that just follow a fixed list.

» Why regular funds and expert guidance matter

Since you mentioned you want to be careful now, it is better to invest through regular plans with the help of a Certified Financial Planner. Many people think direct funds are better because of lower fees, but they often end up making emotional mistakes or picking the wrong funds without a guide. A regular plan gives you access to professional advice and periodic reviews, which ensures you stay on track. This expert support is worth much more than the small cost difference, especially when you are trying to recover from a past investment mistake.

» Opportunity cost and your next steps

Since you do not have a financial emergency, you have a great chance to build wealth. Instead of waiting years just to get your original 5 lakhs back, you can take what is left and start a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). Over the next seven to eight years, a well-managed equity fund could potentially grow that small amount into something much larger than what the insurance policy would ever pay. The loss you take today is the "fees" for a valuable lesson, but staying in the plan is a continuous cost.

» Tax rules to keep in mind

When you move your money to equity mutual funds, remember the tax rules. If you hold your investment for more than a year, it is called Long Term Capital Gain (LTCG). Any profit above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%. If you sell before one year, the profit is taxed at 20%. This is still very efficient compared to many other products.

» Finally

The best approach is usually to exit such low-yield insurance-cum-investment plans as soon as possible. Since your policy is already paid-up, it is not eating new money, but it is wasting your old money. Surrendering now and moving the funds into actively managed mutual funds through a regular plan will likely put you in a much stronger position by the 11th year compared to waiting for the policy to mature.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11044 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 26, 2026

Money
Dear Sir, Wanted to know if Iam right in my thinking. I want to accumulate 3.5 cr in 15 years. For that , I am planning to start an SIP of 40 k in a small cap mutual fund which have easily beaten small cap index benchmarks last 15 yr/20 yr time frames and generated superior returns( Although I understand past performance may or may not replicate similar performance) However I have noticed that bigger compouding or multibagger return from Mutual funds have come largely only from small and mid caps. Large caps may not come closer to what small caps or a mid cap can generate. So by staying disciplined with sip of 40k everymonth in small cap and continue till 15 years be good plan to accumulate 3.5 cr. 15 years in a small cap fund i believe will be decent hold time for reaching such corpus riding various market cycles etc. risk can be largely minimized. Also if the target is nearing in the 14th yr, the entire corpus can be moved to a short term debt fund as a safer strategy then. Please advise. Thank you
Ans: It is great to see your clear vision for building a corpus of Rs. 3.5 cr over the next 15 years. Your decision to start a monthly SIP of Rs. 40,000 shows strong financial discipline. Planning for a 15-year horizon is a smart move because it gives your money enough time to grow and handle different market ups and downs.

» Assessing the small cap strategy

Choosing small cap funds for long-term growth is an interesting choice. You are right that small and mid-cap companies often have more room to grow compared to large-cap companies. This can lead to higher returns over a long period. However, small cap funds can be very volatile. This means the value of your investment might go up and down a lot more than a large-cap fund. Since you have a 15-year window, you have the time to stay invested through these cycles, which is a good way to manage that risk.

» The value of active management over index benchmarks

You mentioned that the funds you are looking at have beaten the small cap index benchmarks. This is a very important observation. In the Indian market, especially in the small cap space, index funds have many disadvantages. Index funds simply track a basket of stocks regardless of their quality. This means they include both good and bad companies.

Actively managed funds are much better because a professional fund manager carefully picks stocks. They can identify high-quality companies with strong growth potential and avoid those with poor governance or weak financials. This active selection is why many managed funds consistently outperform the index. By choosing active funds, you get the benefit of expert research which is crucial in the complex small cap segment.

» Portfolio structure and diversification

While small caps offer high growth, relying only on one category might be risky. A 360-degree financial solution usually suggests a bit more balance. Even though you want high returns, having some exposure to mid-cap or multicap funds could provide a smoother journey without sacrificing too much growth. This helps in staying disciplined because the portfolio won't swing as wildly during market corrections.

» Risk management and the exit strategy

Your plan to move the corpus to a short-term debt fund in the 14th year is a very wise strategy. As a Certified Financial Planner, I see this as a great way to protect your gains. When you are close to your goal, you do not want a sudden market drop to reduce your 15-year hard work. Shifting to safer debt instruments ensures that your Rs. 3.5 cr target is locked in and available when you need it.

» Taxation on your gains

When you eventually move your money or withdraw it, keep the tax rules in mind. For equity mutual funds, Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. If you sell any units before one year, the Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%. For the debt funds you plan to use in the final year, the gains will be taxed according to your income tax slab.

» Final Insights

Your plan is solid and your goal is achievable with the discipline you are showing. By sticking to your Rs. 40,000 SIP and choosing actively managed funds, you are putting yourself in a strong position. Regularly reviewing the progress with a Certified Financial Planner will help ensure you stay on track and make any small changes needed along the way.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |11044 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 26, 2026

Money
How much pension will I get from the SBI Saral Pension Yojana plan? I have a annual premium or investment of 150000 for the last 9 years; 1 more year to go the end of the premium. Can I withdraw money after maturity of this plan? Age at the entry was 43, and the sum assured is 1500000
Ans: You have done a great job saving Rs. 150000 every year for 9 years. Thinking about your retirement at the age of 43 shows a lot of maturity. I am very happy to see your strong commitment to saving money for your future.

» Review of your current insurance policy

This policy is a mix of insurance and investment. Usually, these plans give very low returns. You might only get 4 to 5 percent growth. You asked if you can take out all your money after maturity. The rules for these old pension plans do not allow you to withdraw the full cash. They force you to buy a fixed monthly payout plan with a big part of your money. As a Certified Financial Planner, I do not suggest these fixed payout plans. The monthly money you get is very low and it does not grow over time. When prices go up in the future, this fixed money will not be enough for your daily needs.

» Creating a 360 degree solution for your wealth

Since this is an investment combined with insurance, my advice is to surrender this policy now. After you surrender it, you can take the money and invest it in active equity mutual funds. Active mutual funds have experts who pick good companies for you. This helps your money grow much faster over a long time.

» Action steps to grow your retirement money

Stop paying the final premium for this old policy.

Ask the insurance company for your surrender amount.

Put that surrender money into good active mutual funds.

Keep investing your yearly Rs. 150000 into active mutual funds instead of this policy.

Please avoid buying physical land or houses. Property needs too much money at once and is very hard to sell when you need cash fast.

A good mutual fund portfolio will give you a better regular income in your retirement years.

» Final Insights

You already have a wonderful habit of saving money regularly. If you make a small change and pick smarter investments, your future will be very safe. Moving away from low-return insurance plans to active mutual funds makes your money work harder for you. This will bring you a happy and peaceful retirement.

Would you like me to help you find how to start your first active mutual fund investment?

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x