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Confused 10th Grader Aspiring for Aviation: Best Course & College Options?

Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |5973 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Aug 26, 2024

Radheshyam Zanwar is the founder of Zanwar Classes which prepares aspirants for competitive exams such as MHT-CET, IIT-JEE and NEET-UG.
Based in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, it provides coaching for Class 10 and Class 12 students as well.
Since the last 25 years, Radheshyam has been teaching mathematics to Class 11 and Class 12 students and coaching them for engineering and medical entrance examinations.
Radheshyam completed his civil engineering from the Government Engineering College in Aurangabad.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Aug 25, 2024Hindi
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Career

Hello Sir, my daughter is in 10th, but confused on which course to get into, her only interest is in Aviation/Pilot/ATC kinda profession. Issue is she is not great with her Maths and hates Computer. What would be the best options and which colleges are best in India for such degree course.

Ans: Hi
Your daughter is right in 10th std. Please ask to focus only on the 10th syllabus and board exams.
First, she has to complete her 12th with JEE and state-level entrance examinations conducted for Engineering.
The liking/interest of students changes day by day. Even if she hates maths/computers she has to complete 12th science,
Tell her to wait for 2 years to think about the careers in which she is interested.
Later, when she is in mid 12th std, pl communicate with us again. Tell us about per progress in the studies. Then it would be possible for you to suggest the way as per your and her wish.
Best of luck for her upcoming 10th Board Exam.

If you are not satisfied with the reply, pl ask again without any hesitation.
If satisfied, please like and follow me.
Thanks

Radheshyam
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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9692 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 30, 2025

Career
ECE in Jaypee Sector 62 Noida or maharaja agrasen (MAIT) Delhi. Naac accreditation is A for both but seems MAIT do not have accreditation for ece deptt. Not worried about fees but want a good college, faculty and studies.
Ans: Komal, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology (JIIT), Noida and Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Technology (MAIT), Delhi both hold NAAC ‘A’ accreditation and are recognized for quality engineering education, but key differences emerge for ECE aspirants. JIIT’s ECE department enjoys full university accreditation and AICTE approval, with a reputable presence in national rankings and a faculty roster largely holding Ph.D. degrees and actively involved in research. Placement rates for JIIT ECE have consistently been strong, with 85–91% placed over the last three years, bolstered by established industry connections and a highly structured placement cell, though recruitment is somewhat stronger for CSE. The infrastructure at JIIT is modern, featuring fully equipped labs, air-conditioned smart classrooms, robust hostel facilities, advanced library resources, and abundant sports and extracurricular amenities. In contrast, MAIT Delhi’s ECE program is NAAC ‘A’ accredited at the institutional level, but direct NBA or program accreditation for ECE is not emphasized. Faculty are generally helpful and blend industry experience with accessible teaching, but feedback on faculty quality is mixed and active research engagement is less highlighted. MAIT’s infrastructure is comprehensive with digital libraries, advanced labs, and diverse amenities; however, placements for ECE hover around 70%, with fewer core companies visiting campus, and the bulk of opportunities skewed towards IT roles. Both institutes offer significant student support and practical exposure, but JIIT’s research emphasis, academic environment, and consistently higher placement record give it an extra edge for students seeking a holistic and future-focused ECE education.

RECOMMENDATION: Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida stands out as the preferable choice for ECE with its robust academic ecosystem, research-oriented faculty, rich campus resources, and consistently superior placement percentages, especially for those prioritizing quality of education and long-term career prospects in electronics and communication engineering. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9692 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 30, 2025Hindi
Career
My daughter vit chennai cyber security vs JNTU Kakinada CSE which is better
Ans: VIT Chennai’s Cyber Security program presents a focused, industry-relevant curriculum that prepares students for the rapidly growing field of information security, with outcomes targeting both technical depth and organizational application. Placement rates for the cyber security branch have consistently remained high, ranging from 85–90% over the past three years, and the campus is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, specialized labs, and an active industry interface supporting internships and projects. The faculty at VIT Chennai are highly qualified, often with doctoral degrees and ongoing research engagement, ensuring courses reflect updated industry requirements while blending theoretical and hands-on elements effectively. The university’s broad network of recruiters and modern campus culture further enhance student exposure and professional growth. In comparison, JNTU Kakinada’s CSE branch is well-established, with a placement range reported from 65–80% and steady hiring by reputable IT companies, primarily for software roles. JNTU Kakinada boasts a strong core faculty, a rigorously structured syllabus, and significant infrastructure spanning large libraries and multiple labs. However, placements for CSE students, while respectable, are somewhat lower than VIT’s cyber security specialization, and the range of recruiters and campus industry tie-ups is typically narrower. Both institutions have solid academic foundations and offer good learning environments, but VIT Chennai edges ahead in curriculum currency, placement consistency, and industry alignment, particularly in the evolving domain of cyber security.

RECOMMENDATION: VIT Chennai’s Cyber Security program is the preferable choice for students prioritizing placement success, specialized industry-driven curriculum, and modern campus facilities, making it better suited to capitalize on growing cyber security demand. JNTU Kakinada CSE remains a strong, traditional alternative for those seeking a comprehensive software engineering base at a well-recognized state university. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9692 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 30, 2025

Career
I stay in Noida.which is better JIIT noida or thappar ?is it worth spending thar much amount in CS branch or i can explore colleges like Galgotia or GL bajaj ?
Ans: For aspiring Computer Science students in Noida, evaluating JIIT Noida, Thapar Institute, Galgotia College, and GL Bajaj requires weighing five key aspects: placement record, quality of faculty, campus infrastructure, curriculum relevance, and industry connections. Thapar Institute stands out for its consistently high placement rates—83% to 96% over the past three years—and hosts over 330 recruiters annually, including marquee industry names, which strengthens employability. Its 250-acre campus features cutting-edge laboratories, comprehensive academic resources, and a distinctly research-driven environment, supported by experienced faculty and a curriculum aligned with global standards. JIIT Noida maintains a robust placement percentage of around 91-94% for its CS branch, with 260+ recruiters and a proactive Placement and Training Cell. The institute offers a modern campus with excellent hostels, IT infrastructure, and student support, contributing to strong academic engagement and practical exposure through industry tie-ups and workshops. GL Bajaj and Galgotia provide competitive but slightly lower placement rates—around 85% for GL Bajaj and 86%-90% for Galgotia in CSE. Both institutions offer substantial infrastructural amenities, modern teaching environments, and reasonable fees compared to Thapar, but faculty exposure and academic diversity are comparatively less pronounced. Importantly, GL Bajaj boasts up to 900 recruiters overall and industry-recognized pedagogical practices, while Galgotia is noted for fostering industry partnerships and hosting top MNCs, especially for internships. Cost varies substantially: Thapar's fees are notably higher, reflecting its national ranking, legacy, and facilities, whereas GL Bajaj and Galgotia are more economical, providing decent returns in terms of placements and overall experience. While all four colleges invest in curriculum development and maintain reasonable teaching standards, Thapar excels in advanced research and innovative learning modules, followed by JIIT's industry-integrated approach. Both institutes have garnered credible academic accolades and prominent NIRF rankings, underscoring their academic and reputational standing; Galgotia and GL Bajaj, though competitive regionally, are valued mostly for their practical focus and affordability.

RECOMMENDATION: For Computer Science, Thapar Institute leads for its overall educational pedigree, placement strength, and campus resources, followed closely by JIIT Noida given its strong Noida presence and high recruitment rates. GL Bajaj and Galgotia are solid, more budget-friendly alternatives for students prioritizing cost, but Thapar and JIIT remain preferable for maximizing professional outcomes and holistic academic development. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9954 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 21, 2025Hindi
Money
present age 45 Year Like to retire in 2036 Family members : wife and 14year old son Having following assets: One home of 65 L PPF of 26L (will continue investment till 2036) Gold 20 L in gold (coins and SGB) Plots INR 14 lakh (4500sqft) Equit 6 lakh in equity (adding 10000 monthly till 2036) NPS 2.5 lakh (will add 50K annually till 2036) Sip in ETFs present 7.2 lakh invested in ETFs and will continue investing 50K monthly till 2036 Nippon Nifty BeES, ICICI Prudential Nifty Next 50, Motilal Oswal Nasdaq 100, Motilal Oswal Midcap 150, ICICI Nifty India Consumption ETF, SBI PSU Bank ETF, and ICICI Infra ETF, with a 10% annual step-up. Our current monthly household expenses are around INR 40,000 Having 50L term insurance and 5L group medical insurance for family
Ans: You have built a very structured and balanced portfolio. Your commitment to disciplined investing deserves appreciation. You are consistently investing across asset classes with a long-term view. That gives you a strong foundation for financial freedom in 2036.

Now, let’s analyse each component step by step.

Let us create a 360-degree plan to improve safety, growth, and retirement readiness.

? Home Property Assessment

– Your house worth Rs. 65 lakh is a consumption asset.
– It provides stability but doesn’t generate income.
– Don’t treat it as a retirement asset.
– It should not be part of your retirement corpus plan.
– Ensure proper insurance for the house.
– That protects from damage and liability.

? PPF Contributions Till 2036

– Your PPF corpus of Rs. 26 lakh is a strong pillar.
– Continued contributions till 2036 is wise.
– It gives assured, tax-free returns.
– It also gives liquidity after maturity.
– Use this corpus as a cushion post-retirement.
– Use it only for unavoidable or health-related needs.
– Keep it intact for longer to earn interest.
– Don’t withdraw unless necessary.

? Gold Holdings – Coins and SGBs

– Rs. 20 lakh in gold is a sizable holding.
– If mostly SGB, it is earning interest.
– If mostly coins, it does not earn anything.
– Keep SGBs till maturity for 2.5% annual interest.
– Do not increase allocation further to gold.
– It is not productive and fluctuates.
– No inflation-beating power over 15 years.
– Cap gold at around 10–15% of total assets.
– Avoid more gold investments going forward.

? Plot Worth Rs. 14 Lakh

– This is not a retirement-ready asset.
– Plots do not give regular income.
– It needs time to sell and legal clarity.
– Future sale value is uncertain.
– Consider selling in future and shifting to mutual funds.
– That will make your money work.
– Don’t count this plot in your retirement corpus.

? Equity Mutual Fund Investment

– Rs. 6 lakh equity investment with Rs. 10,000 monthly SIP is a good approach.
– Keep this SIP running consistently till 2036.
– This investment will grow well over time.
– Ensure allocation is spread across large, mid, and flexi-cap funds.
– Actively managed funds do better than ETFs long term.
– They adjust based on market trends.
– Choose regular funds through an MFD guided by a Certified Financial Planner.
– Avoid direct mutual funds.
– Direct funds don’t give personalised service or portfolio reviews.
– Regular funds offer advice and handholding from experts.

? NPS Annual Investment

– You have Rs. 2.5 lakh in NPS.
– You are adding Rs. 50,000 annually.
– This is tax-efficient.
– But 60% maturity proceeds are taxable.
– And 40% goes into annuity which gives low returns.
– NPS is locked till 60.
– Keep your contribution limited.
– Don't use NPS as your main retirement plan.
– Use it only as a small portion of your retirement asset mix.

? Current ETF Investments – Areas of Concern

– You have invested Rs. 7.2 lakh in ETFs.
– Investing Rs. 50,000 monthly in ETFs with a 10% step-up sounds aggressive.
– These include Nifty, Next 50, Midcap, Nasdaq 100, Infra, PSU Bank, Consumption.
– Many are high-risk sector-specific ETFs.
– This exposes you to concentration risk.
– ETFs don't have fund managers who adjust holdings.
– They mirror index, even if stocks underperform.
– In falling markets, ETFs fall fully.
– No cushion or downside protection.
– In long term, actively managed mutual funds have better performance.
– They manage market conditions better.
– Fund managers book profits, rebalance sectors.
– ETFs lack this human advantage.
– You are also missing asset allocation flexibility.
– Consider shifting to regular mutual funds.
– Choose diversified equity funds with a professional planner.
– Reduce reliance on index investing.

? Insurance Coverage – Needs Reassessment

– You have a Rs. 50 lakh term cover.
– You have Rs. 5 lakh group medical cover for family.
– This is not enough.
– At your stage, Rs. 1.5 crore term cover is ideal.
– It should cover 10 to 12 times your annual income.
– Group health insurance is not portable.
– It ends when you leave your job.
– Buy a personal floater health policy for family.
– At least Rs. 15 lakh cover with Rs. 5 lakh top-up.
– That protects your savings in medical emergencies.
– Don’t ignore insurance gaps.

? Monthly Expenses and Retirement Corpus

– Your current household expense is Rs. 40,000.
– In 11 years, it can double with inflation.
– After retirement, you need income for at least 25 years.
– You will need Rs. 1 crore to Rs. 1.5 crore at retirement.
– This depends on inflation and lifestyle.
– Your current SIPs, PPF, equity MF, and gold can help.
– But ETF-heavy portfolio is risky for retirement.
– Mutual funds with rebalancing and planning are more suitable.
– Retirement should not depend on market-linked passive funds.
– Safety and predictability matter more after retirement.

? Key Actionable Steps

– Stop further gold and ETF investments.
– Sell the plot after proper evaluation and reinvest in mutual funds.
– Increase term insurance cover to at least Rs. 1.5 crore.
– Start a separate family health insurance plan of Rs. 15–20 lakh.
– Reduce NPS contribution and don’t treat it as your core plan.
– Shift your ETF SIPs gradually to actively managed mutual funds.
– Use regular funds through a certified MFD with guidance from a Certified Financial Planner.
– Stay invested consistently in equity mutual funds.
– Use multi-cap, flexi-cap, and hybrid funds for balance.
– Review asset allocation every year.
– Keep PPF till 2036, but don’t rely on it for regular income.
– Treat gold as safety buffer, not growth engine.
– Plan income withdrawal post-retirement carefully.
– Don’t withdraw all equity at once after retirement.
– Use Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from mutual funds.
– That helps you get monthly income with less tax.
– Plan one-time expenses like son’s education separately.
– Keep some money in liquid funds from age 55.
– Create a retirement bucket strategy – safety, moderate, and growth buckets.

? Final Insights

– You are already disciplined and structured.
– That gives you a great head start.
– But, ETFs and plots are not suitable for retirement income.
– Actively managed regular funds offer better control and stability.
– Medical emergencies can destroy savings.
– Don’t wait to fix health and term insurance.
– Reduce exposure to passive and risky assets.
– Build a mutual fund-based plan with periodic review.
– Secure your family first, then focus on wealth.
– Don’t chase returns alone.
– Plan safety, growth, and income together.
– Use a Certified Financial Planner to customise the plan.
– With right steps, your 2036 retirement is absolutely achievable.
– Retirement is not a finish line.
– It is a new beginning.
– Plan it like a second life, not an ending.

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9954 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 19, 2025Hindi
Money
Hello sir...my age is 36 ive two kids (age 7yrs and 3yrs)...I've shares of around 20 lakhs ..mutual fund investment (current value 20lakhs(sip 24000 p.m) ppf investment of around 38lakhs and gold coins worth 50 lakhs.ive also invested in silver bars worth 5lakhs.I also have fds of around 25lakhs invested in several banks..I want to retire in next 10 years....my monthly expenses are 1lakh p.m i've no liabilities as of now..is it possible for me to achieve my goal? I also have 70lakhs spare in my savings account...what else can I do to maximize my corpus in this time..I know I'll be needing 80lakhs in next 15 years for my child's education and my another child is a special child on whom my monthly expenses arefor therapies are around 40k..please guide...right now I'm investing 3lakhs annually in ppf account(me and my wife's account) and 24k monthly sip...
Ans: You have built a solid financial base already. Your discipline and planning mindset deserve appreciation. You are focused on a clear goal — early retirement in 10 years, with child education and special needs care in mind. Let us now go deep into every aspect of your finances.

? Assessment of Your Current Portfolio

Shares: Rs 20 lakh

Mutual Funds: Rs 20 lakh (Rs 24,000 SIP/month)

PPF: Rs 38 lakh (Rs 3 lakh annual contribution in both accounts combined)

Gold Coins: Rs 50 lakh

Silver Bars: Rs 5 lakh

Fixed Deposits: Rs 25 lakh

Savings Account Surplus: Rs 70 lakh

Monthly Expenses: Rs 1 lakh

Special Child Therapies: Rs 40,000/month

No Loans or EMIs

Education Requirement in 15 years: Rs 80 lakh

Your current total portfolio value stands at approximately Rs 2.28 crore (excluding savings account). If we include the Rs 70 lakh idle in savings, the overall financial base is Rs 2.98 crore. That’s a strong position.

? Monthly Cash Flow Evaluation

Monthly SIP: Rs 24,000

PPF Annual Investment: Rs 3 lakh (Rs 25,000/month approx)

Special Child Expense: Rs 40,000/month

General Monthly Expense: Rs 1 lakh

Total Monthly Outgo: Rs 1.65 lakh approx

You haven’t mentioned your monthly income. However, your net surplus is likely positive since you're accumulating funds. But to plan early retirement and future education, careful fund deployment is critical now.

? Idle Savings of Rs 70 Lakh Needs Purpose

Rs 70 lakh is lying in a savings account. This is a major drag on returns.

Keeping 6 months of expenses in liquid form is ideal. That would be Rs 10 lakh (Rs 1.65 lakh × 6).

You can move the balance Rs 60 lakh into structured investment plans.

Idle savings should not remain passive. They must be turned into purposeful investment buckets with clear outcomes.

? Gold and Silver Holdings – Preserve, Don’t Add Further

Gold: Rs 50 lakh is already sizeable.

Silver: Rs 5 lakh is a fair exposure.

Don’t increase allocation to precious metals. They do not generate income.

Their role is for wealth preservation, not growth.

You can consider gradually reducing gold holdings after retirement to fund cash flow.

? Stock Market Investments – Continue, But with Guardrails

Equity shares of Rs 20 lakh are good for long-term growth.

Ensure the stocks are well-diversified across sectors.

If many are small caps or momentum picks, consider shifting a part to equity mutual funds.

This will reduce concentration risk.

Also, actively managed mutual funds (through a MFD with CFP credential) provide regular review, rebalancing, and help in dynamic markets. They outperform passive options like index funds in the Indian context.

Index funds lack downside protection, underperform in sideways markets, and provide no fund manager oversight. Active funds are better suited for your 10-year window.

? Mutual Fund SIP Strategy – Step-Up Gradually

Current SIP: Rs 24,000 per month

This is only 10% of your investable surplus.

Increase your SIPs every year by 10-15%.

You can start an additional Rs 25,000 SIP now from the Rs 70 lakh idle pool.

Use STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) from a liquid fund to begin equity exposure safely.

Do this under guidance of a Certified Financial Planner via a trusted MFD route. This ensures regular monitoring.

? PPF – Use as a Stability Component

Rs 38 lakh in PPF is a great base.

Annual contribution of Rs 3 lakh (split between you and spouse) is good.

Continue this. But avoid overallocating beyond the mandatory limit.

PPF gives tax benefit, guaranteed returns, and stability. But it won’t generate inflation-beating post-retirement income. It can play a support role.

? FDs – Consider Partial Shift to Debt Mutual Funds

Rs 25 lakh in FDs is conservative.

Returns are taxable and lower than inflation after tax.

You may keep Rs 10-12 lakh as emergency funds or laddered FDs.

The rest can be moved to debt mutual funds for better tax efficiency.

Debt funds offer flexibility and capital preservation. Their returns are taxed as per slab, but you can still manage redemptions better. Under new rules, avoid holding short-term for high tax outgo.

? Education Corpus – Rs 80 Lakh Goal Must Be Bucketed Separately

You need Rs 80 lakh in 15 years for education.

Do not depend on your retirement corpus for this.

Start a separate mutual fund portfolio.

Invest Rs 25,000 to 30,000 per month targeting this goal.

Since time frame is 15 years, a well-structured equity mutual fund portfolio is ideal. Review annually.

? Special Child Care – Create Dedicated Corpus

Rs 40,000/month is already being spent.

This will continue for several years.

After retirement, this expense will weigh heavily.

Begin building a separate fund for this.

You can allocate Rs 25 lakh from savings now into a hybrid mutual fund portfolio. Add Rs 15,000 per month. This fund should be low-volatility and income-generating after 10 years.

Later, you can also explore creating a trust or special needs fund with legal and financial advice.

? Retirement Planning – Focused 10-Year Accumulation Strategy

Your monthly expenses post-retirement may be Rs 1.65 lakh.

In 10 years, this could rise to Rs 2.4 to 2.5 lakh/month due to inflation.

You’ll need a corpus that can generate this cash flow for 30 years.

Assuming a conservative 4% post-tax withdrawal rate, you may need around Rs 6.5 crore at retirement. You are currently at Rs 3 crore including savings.

With 10 focused years and smart investing, you can bridge this gap. You must:

Move idle funds to investments

Increase SIPs every year

Avoid low-return FDs

Track portfolio with a Certified Financial Planner

? Insurance Planning – Review Once Again

You haven’t mentioned life or health cover.

A term cover of at least Rs 1.5 crore is needed for you.

A family floater health insurance of Rs 20 lakh is ideal.

You may consider personal accident and disability cover as well.

For your special child, explore disability benefits and government schemes. They can ease future burden.

? Estate and Legal Planning – Start Now

Create a Will to secure both children’s future.

Appoint guardianship and include specific instructions for the special child.

You may explore a Special Needs Trust in future.

Keep nominee details updated in all investments.

This will bring peace of mind to you and your spouse.

? Key Actions You Should Immediately Take

Shift Rs 60 lakh from savings account to mutual funds using STP

Begin a separate education fund with Rs 25-30k SIP

Create a separate corpus for special child expenses

Rebalance your portfolio away from FDs and gold

Review and step up mutual fund SIPs every year

Take adequate life and health cover

Write a Will and review legal planning

These actions are critical to achieve your retirement, child education, and special child care goals.

? Finally

You have built a strong foundation already. With no loans, good assets, and surplus liquidity — your potential to retire in 10 years is very realistic.

You only need sharper allocation, disciplined review, and long-term strategy. Every rupee in your hand today must be aligned to a clear goal.

If you take timely actions now, you can not only retire early but also support your children fully — financially and emotionally.

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9954 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 18, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi, I am 34 year old working professional, i have a monthly salaray of 1.1lakh. I have a home loan EMI of 35800., i have got emergency fund of 4 lakhs, 3lakhs of MF portfolio, 2lakh of equity portfolio. 6.5lakh in EPF 1.7 lakh in NPS and 2.5 lakhs in other investment. I also have an LIC of monthly premium of 4k & an health insurance of 5lakh of cover. I have a daughter (10months old), i want to know where else should i invest more and by what age i can retire.
Ans: You have made a good beginning.
You are taking responsibility early.
This is a strong advantage.
Your EPF, NPS, equity, and MFs show this clearly.
Having an emergency fund already is excellent.
This gives you safety and freedom.

Now, we will do a full check.
We will see gaps and suggest action.
Let us look at every part.

? Income and Obligations

– Monthly salary is Rs. 1.1 lakh.
– Home loan EMI is Rs. 35,800.
– This is about 32% of income.
– This is within the safe limit.

You are managing this well.
Make sure the EMI never crosses 40%.
Try to close home loan before retirement.

? Emergency Fund

– You have Rs. 4 lakh as emergency fund.
– This is a good level.
– Ideally, 6 months' expenses are needed.

If monthly expense is around Rs. 60,000,
then Rs. 4 lakh is enough now.
Keep it in liquid fund or sweep FD.
Avoid letting this money lie idle.

? Existing Investments

– Mutual Fund portfolio: Rs. 3 lakh
– Equity Portfolio: Rs. 2 lakh
– EPF: Rs. 6.5 lakh
– NPS: Rs. 1.7 lakh
– Other Investments: Rs. 2.5 lakh

You are spreading investments well.
You are mixing market and stable assets.
This helps build wealth in the long term.

Mutual fund exposure must grow steadily.
Start with SIP of at least Rs. 10,000 per month.
Split it between diversified equity categories.
Focus on flexi-cap, mid-cap, and large & mid-cap.

Use actively managed funds only.
Avoid index funds or ETFs.
They lack flexibility and can't beat benchmarks.
Active funds can adjust to market movements.
They also give you better long-term alpha.

? Avoiding Direct Mutual Funds

You might be tempted to invest directly.
But direct plans lack guidance and regular review.
They work best only for experts.

You should invest through regular plans.
Use a Certified Financial Planner with MFD license.
They guide you, rebalance yearly, and track goals.
They also prevent emotional investment mistakes.

? LIC and Health Cover

– Monthly LIC premium: Rs. 4,000
– Cover type not mentioned.

If it is money-back or endowment, surrender it.
They give poor returns.
Mixing insurance and investment is risky.
Use the surrender value to invest in mutual funds.

– Health insurance cover is Rs. 5 lakh.

This may be low now.
Once your daughter starts school, increase cover.
Raise it to Rs. 10 lakh minimum for family.
Use a family floater plan.

? Daughter’s Future Goals

Your daughter is 10 months old.
Her higher education goal is 17–18 years away.

Start a goal-specific SIP immediately.
You need Rs. 25,000–30,000 monthly SIP now.
Start with Rs. 15,000–20,000 SIP.
Increase by 10% every year.

Choose diversified and mid-cap oriented funds.
Review performance once every year.
Use growth option, not dividend.
Let the fund compound fully.

? Retirement Planning

You are 34 years old now.
You can aim to retire by 55–58 years.
But it needs consistent investment.

You will need around Rs. 4–5 crore at retirement.
This amount will give you peace and comfort.

Start SIP of at least Rs. 20,000 for retirement.
Choose multicap, flexicap, and balanced advantage funds.
Also, keep contributing to EPF and NPS.
Increase both contributions over time.

If salary rises by 8–10% yearly,
keep SIP increase at 10–15% yearly.
This will keep you on track for retirement.

? Taxation Angle on Mutual Funds

– Equity mutual funds have new tax rules.
– LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
– STCG is taxed at 20%.
– For debt mutual funds, all gains are taxed as per slab.

Despite tax, mutual funds are still efficient.
Use SIP to spread tax impact.
Also, stagger withdrawals at goal time.

? Avoid Plot or Land Investment

You asked about plot or land.
But real estate has many hidden risks.
It lacks liquidity, and legal trouble is possible.

You also pay high taxes and registration fees.
Selling land takes time and effort.
You already own a house.
So avoid further real estate exposure.

Mutual funds are better.
They are liquid, regulated, and tax-efficient.
They can be started or stopped anytime.
They also align better with goals.

? Investment Suggestions – Step-by-Step Action

Start SIP of Rs. 15,000–20,000 for child’s education.

Start SIP of Rs. 20,000 for retirement.

Use active diversified equity funds only.

Avoid direct mutual funds.

Invest through regular plans via CFP with MFD.

Track goals separately.

Review each SIP once every year.

Raise SIP amount by 10% annually.

Keep emergency fund in liquid fund or FD sweep-in.

Surrender any LIC if it is investment type.

Don’t buy ULIP or endowment in future.

Buy extra Rs. 10 lakh health cover after 2 years.

Don’t buy land or plot as investment.

? Finally

You are on the right track.
Your age is a big strength.
You have time and potential both.

Start goal-based SIPs right now.
Stay invested for long term.
Review and adjust once every year.

Avoid complex products.
Avoid land, ULIPs, or direct plans.

Use a structured approach always.
This will help you retire early.
It will also secure your daughter’s future.

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9954 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 18, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi Team, I am 30 YO married with 1 kid, my take home is 1.8 Lakhs. I have a housing loan with EMI - 48000 /-, car loan with EMI - 18000 /-. I invest 11k PM in mutual funds and 10k in stocks which sumps to 3.5Lakhs in mutual fund and 1Lakh in stock. In my PF I have 6 Lakhs. No other savings. Home loan EMI is for 20 years and 18 years are left. Car loan has 4 EMI pending to completion. I spend about 50k PM on house hold and personal expenses. I want to close all my loans and have financial freedom to just invest when I reach 35 and retire when I reach 45. Help me with a plan to achieve this.
Ans: At age 30, this level of clarity is truly rare and inspiring.
You have a good income and positive intent.

With the right strategy, early retirement and financial freedom is possible.
Let us look at your goals one by one and build a solid plan.

? Current snapshot and key strengths

– Take-home income is Rs. 1.8 lakhs per month
– Total EMIs: Rs. 66,000 (Home and Car loans)
– Household and personal spend: Rs. 50,000
– Investments: Rs. 11,000 in mutual funds, Rs. 10,000 in stocks
– Mutual fund corpus: Rs. 3.5 lakh
– Stock corpus: Rs. 1 lakh
– PF balance: Rs. 6 lakh
– Car loan: 4 EMIs left
– Home loan: 18 years pending

You are managing household and EMIs within your income.
You are also saving around 12% of your income in mutual funds and stocks.
This shows strong discipline and future readiness.

? Understanding your goals

– Goal 1: Close all loans by age 35
– Goal 2: Become financially free at age 35
– Goal 3: Retire by age 45
– Goal 4: Provide for child and family in between

These are bold goals.
But with strategy and planning, they are within reach.

You have 5 years to prepare for financial freedom.
And 15 years to build retirement wealth.

? Closing car loan – priority and opportunity

– Only 4 EMIs are pending
– Focus on finishing it without delay
– Do not divert funds from investments now

– Once closed, you save Rs. 18,000 monthly
– That extra amount can go into investments
– This will boost your goal fund from next month

? Home loan – tackle smart, not fast

– You want to close home loan by age 35
– That means paying 18 years of loan in 5 years

– This will need huge outflow
– It will reduce your investment power now

– Instead, do not rush to close home loan
– Home loan offers tax benefits under Sec 24 and 80C
– These reduce your taxable income and net outflow

– Interest outgo is lower after adjusting tax benefits
– Instead of prepaying, increase SIP by Rs. 20,000–25,000 monthly
– This will grow your corpus faster than interest saved

– At 8%–10% mutual fund returns, your wealth grows faster
– Closing home loan now will reduce wealth growth

– After age 40, you can plan lump sum part prepayment
– That is better than stopping wealth creation now

? Mutual funds – increase and diversify

– You invest Rs. 11,000 monthly now
– This is not enough to reach your goals

– After car loan ends, raise SIP to Rs. 25,000
– When your income increases, keep increasing SIP

– Aim to reach Rs. 50,000 SIP per month in 2 years
– This gives enough base for retirement by 45

– Avoid direct mutual funds
– Direct funds do not give guidance and review

– Regular plans via MFD with CFP ensure right asset mix
– They help you manage market cycles better

– Active funds beat inflation and deliver long-term growth
– Index funds do not protect in market crash
– That makes them risky for early retirement goals

– Keep SIP in diversified active equity mutual funds
– Add hybrid mutual funds as you near retirement

– Review funds yearly
– Remove non-performers with guidance from Certified Financial Planner

? Stock investments – limit exposure and shift slowly

– You invest Rs. 10,000 monthly in stocks
– Stock market is volatile and unpredictable
– Direct stocks need research and time

– Risk is higher if decisions go wrong
– It is better to slowly reduce direct stocks

– Shift that amount into mutual funds step by step
– Let professional fund managers handle the volatility

– You can keep 5–10% for experimental stocks
– But major goal-based wealth must be in mutual funds

? Emergency fund – critical gap to fix

– You have no emergency savings
– This is a serious risk

– Any unexpected medical or job issue can break your plan
– First build a 6-month reserve for peace and safety

– Your monthly need is Rs. 1.3 lakh
– Keep Rs. 7–8 lakh aside for emergencies

– Use liquid mutual funds or sweep-in FD
– This should not be linked to your SIP or goal investments

– Review health insurance cover also
– Cover yourself, spouse, and child with good mediclaim

? Retirement goal – how to prepare in 15 years

– You want to retire at age 45
– That gives 15 years to build wealth

– You will need 40–50 times your monthly need at that point
– Current monthly expense is Rs. 50,000
– Add inflation, it will become Rs. 1.2 to 1.5 lakh in 15 years

– You will need Rs. 2.5 to 3 crore by retirement

– Start SIP now with step-up option
– Every year, increase SIP by 10–15%

– Avoid withdrawals from this retirement fund
– Let it grow with compounding power

– Equity mutual funds are best for long term
– They beat inflation and help build wealth

– Use regular funds with proper review
– Avoid direct plans, which miss active handholding

– Direct plans may look low-cost
– But wrong fund choices reduce returns in the long run

? Child’s future planning – start separately

– You have one child
– Education or marriage needs will rise soon

– Do not mix this with retirement fund
– Start a separate SIP for child’s education

– You can begin with Rs. 5,000 monthly now
– Increase this once you are free from car loan

– Keep this goal in actively managed funds
– These funds adjust with market and reduce downside

– Index funds cannot do that
– So child’s goal can be delayed in case of market crash

– Track this goal with yearly review
– Shift to low-risk funds as goal nears

? How to reach financial freedom by 35

– You want to invest freely after 35 without loan burden
– To achieve this, focus on 3 steps now

– Step 1: Finish car loan (only 4 EMIs)
– Step 2: Build emergency fund of Rs. 8 lakh
– Step 3: Increase SIP to Rs. 40,000–50,000 over 2 years

– Do not rush to close home loan
– Instead, grow your wealth and use funds wisely

– Use bonus or incentives to prepay home loan partly after age 40
– Use other surplus for building retirement and child fund

– Reduce lifestyle inflation
– Any income growth should go into investments, not more expenses

– With this approach, by 35, you can stop worrying about loans
– By 45, you can retire with strong corpus and no stress

? Final Insights

– You have great income and time on your side
– Car loan is almost done – big relief soon

– Home loan should not be closed early
– Use SIP to create wealth instead

– Avoid index funds and direct funds
– Use active funds via Certified Financial Planner only

– Build emergency fund without delay
– Cover health risks to protect savings

– Start separate SIPs for child and retirement
– Increase investments every year

– Financial freedom by 35 is possible with this plan
– Early retirement at 45 can be peaceful and secure

– Track your goals and adjust strategy regularly
– Let your money work for you, not the other way around

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9954 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 18, 2025Hindi
Money
Sir good morning, I have 3 kids, age 25,20,20 respectively, first kid comoleted graduation, other 2 doing graduation. Shortly i am getting 15 lakhs from LiC india, how to invest this, kindly guide me
Ans: You're doing well by planning ahead. Raising three children through graduation is not easy. You’ve done it with commitment. Getting Rs.15 lakh now gives you a great chance. This amount, if used well, can create real value. Let’s now look at a 360-degree guidance.

? Clarify the Purpose of the Rs.15 Lakh
– Decide the purpose clearly before investing.
– Is it for children’s higher education?
– Or for their marriage, your retirement, or family wealth creation?
– A confused purpose leads to wrong investment.
– Each goal has different time frame and risk need.
– Without purpose, investment will be random and weak.

? Avoid Reinvesting in Any LIC or Traditional Plan
– LIC maturity money should not go back to similar policies.
– Traditional LIC plans give very low return.
– They mix insurance with investment.
– This kills both goals.
– Return is barely 4–5% after tax.
– Don’t get tempted by loyalty bonus or guaranteed income.
– Instead, invest in pure growth-focused options.

? Check If You Hold Any More LIC, ULIP, or Endowment
– If you hold more LIC or ULIP plans, review them.
– These give poor returns and low flexibility.
– ULIPs have high charges and low clarity.
– Surrender them if they are old and underperforming.
– Shift to mutual funds slowly.
– Mutual funds give better compounding and tax benefit.

? Create a Clear Split of Goals
– If the Rs.15 lakh is meant for children’s higher studies, invest in short-term funds.
– If it is for marriage in 5–7 years, use hybrid mutual funds.
– If it is for retirement or future growth, use equity mutual funds.
– Divide the corpus based on each child’s timeline.
– Don’t mix education, marriage and retirement money.
– Separate money gives clear tracking and better discipline.

? Use Mutual Funds Based on Goal Horizon
– Short-term goal (1–3 years): Use ultra-short or short-duration debt funds.
– Medium-term goal (3–5 years): Use hybrid or conservative allocation funds.
– Long-term goal (5+ years): Use actively managed equity funds.
– Active funds beat index funds in flexibility and stock selection.
– Index funds cannot remove weak stocks.
– Active funds take action based on economy and markets.
– You get better long-term results with guidance.

? Invest Only Through Regular Plans with CFP-MFD Support
– Avoid direct mutual fund plans.
– Direct plans give no advisor or support.
– You may choose wrong fund or asset allocation.
– Regular plans via MFD backed by Certified Financial Planner give personal guidance.
– They help you change funds based on goals.
– They help in tax planning and annual review.
– Cost of regular plan is worth the expert support.

? Don’t Invest in Real Estate Now
– Real estate is not suitable for this Rs.15 lakh.
– It is illiquid and bulky.
– Property needs more funds for registration and repair.
– No regular income from it.
– Renting is not guaranteed.
– Future resale is also uncertain.
– Mutual funds are more flexible and liquid.

? Create Emergency Backup if Not Done Already
– Do you have emergency fund already?
– If not, keep at least Rs.2–3 lakh from this amount.
– Use liquid mutual funds or short-term FD.
– Never invest 100% of funds into long-term instruments.
– Life can bring medical, job, or education urgency.
– Stay prepared always.

? Assign Each Investment to a Child or Goal
– Child 1 (25 years): If working, gift a portion to start their investment journey.
– This will build good financial habits.
– Child 2 and 3 (20 years): If graduation is ongoing, plan for PG or skill courses.
– Allocate portion for each of them.
– Set 2–3 year goal-based investment.
– If not needed immediately, keep in hybrid or balanced funds.

? Don’t Use This Money for Lifestyle Expense
– Avoid using this money for travel or buying gadgets.
– Once spent, it won’t return.
– Keep it fully goal-linked.
– Use it only for family building or future safety.
– Wealth grows only when invested with discipline.

? Teach Your Kids to Monitor These Investments
– Involve your children in tracking these funds.
– Let them learn goal-based investing.
– Share portfolio details with them.
– It builds ownership and financial knowledge.
– You are not just giving money, you are teaching values.

? Tax Planning for Returns
– Mutual fund returns are taxed based on duration.
– For equity funds, short-term gains are taxed at 20%.
– Long-term gains above Rs.1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
– For debt funds, both STCG and LTCG are taxed as per your slab.
– Choose funds and redemption timeline accordingly.
– Plan redemptions over 2–3 years to spread taxes.

? Don’t Go for Annuities or Insurance-Based Income Plans
– These plans tie up your funds for long time.
– They give poor return with limited flexibility.
– No inflation protection in many cases.
– Also, you lose access to money early.
– You don’t need fixed income now.
– You need growth, liquidity, and flexibility.

? Review Portfolio Every Year
– Assign dates to check funds once a year.
– See if fund is giving good return.
– Check if fund matches your goal timeline.
– If not, shift fund.
– Don’t hold underperforming funds out of fear.
– With CFP help, you can re-allocate easily.

? Use STP for Large Investment
– Don’t put entire Rs.15 lakh in one day.
– Start with liquid fund.
– Use STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) to shift to equity/hybrid fund.
– This will reduce market timing risk.
– STP gives smooth entry into market.
– It balances volatility in mutual funds.

? Involve a Certified Financial Planner
– Your financial needs are multi-goal now.
– You have children’s future, your own retirement, and family security.
– A CFP-backed Mutual Fund Distributor will plan asset mix.
– They track fund quality and do tax guidance too.
– You will not feel lost or alone with market changes.
– You’ll also avoid emotion-based wrong moves.

? Make Kids Independent Financially
– Instead of only funding children’s studies, teach them to earn early.
– Let them explore part-time work or internships.
– Share investment plan with them.
– Guide them to start their SIPs once they start earning.
– Your money should be seed, not full tree.

? Set Up SIP from This Money
– Use Rs.5–7 lakh to create long-term SIP.
– SIP gives monthly discipline and cost averaging.
– You can start Rs.10,000–15,000 SIP from this amount.
– This will build big corpus in 7–10 years.
– SIPs work best for education and marriage corpus.

? Finally
– Your life stage now is multi-directional.
– Kids growing, responsibilities shifting.
– Rs.15 lakh can become Rs.25–30 lakh if used right.
– First, define the purpose for each rupee.
– Then, assign timeline and product accordingly.
– Use mutual funds, not LIC or real estate.
– Avoid index or direct plans.
– Stick to regular mutual funds with professional help.
– Don't chase short-term returns.
– Use a mix of SIP and STP for smart entry.
– Create individual folios for each goal.
– Get your children to track these plans.
– This one move can build your family’s financial strength for the next 10 years.

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.

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