32-Year-Old Mech Engineer Seeking Career Change: How Can I Learn, Earn, and Be Financially Free by 42?

Ans: Hello Mr. Anuj,
Starting a business in India with a budget of ?20,000 is entirely possible with strategic planning, local market research, and minimal infrastructure. Whether you prefer a home-based model, freelancing, or product-based business, several viable options can generate steady income. Here’s a detailed guide to ten promising business ideas tailored for the Indian market.

Online Reselling via Dropshipping
Dropshipping allows you to sell products without holding inventory. Popular categories include eco-friendly products, ethnic jewellery, and mobile accessories. Profit margins range from 30–50%, but success depends on social media marketing and supplier reliability.

Freelancing Services
If you have skills in content writing, graphic design, or video editing, freelancing can be a lucrative option. A laptop and internet connection are the only real requirements. Building a strong online presence on LinkedIn or Fiverr can help secure consistent clients.

Home Tutoring/Coaching
With increasing competition in academics, home tutoring is a stable business. Charging ?1,000–2,000 per student per month ensures recurring income. The demand peaks during exam seasons, making it a great long-term option.

Event Decoration
Event decoration, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, is a creative and profitable business. Specializing in birthday parties, anniversaries, and wedding decor can help build a niche. However, the business is seasonal.

Customized Printing
Selling custom-printed T-shirts, mugs, and gifts online is a trendy business. With social media marketing, you can attract college students and young professionals who love personalized products. However, printer maintenance costs should be considered.

Key Tips for Success
Legal Compliance: Register as a sole proprietorship for hassle-free operations.
Smart Marketing: Use WhatsApp Business, Instagram Reels, and Google My Business for cost-effective promotions.
Cost Control: Rent equipment (e.g., cloud kitchens) instead of buying to minimize overheads.
Customer Feedback: Focus on refining offerings based on customer preferences.
Start Small, Scale Later: Test your business model before making large investments.
With careful planning, minimal investment, and the right strategy, starting a business with ?20,000 in India is not only possible but also profitable. Choose a business aligned with your skills and local market demand, and take the first step toward entrepreneurship today!

Ans: Hello dear.
Yes. You can appear for JEE. But why you are thinking about three attempts? Try to appear in the exam like JEE almost 2 times. Even in 2nd attempt, most of the students get fed up. Best of luck for your upcoming exam.

If satisfied, please like and follow me.
If dissatisfied with the reply, please ask again without hesitation.
Thanks.

Radheshyam

Ans: Hello Ashokreddy.
Are you asking for PAN India, or is your state not clear? Are you an aspirant of JEE or state engineering entrance test is also unclear. Pl mention the details to guide you properly. Thanks

Ans: Hello;

You may plan your investments as 50% in a flexicap type mutual fund and 50% in large cap type mutual fund.

Both are taxed as equity, being equity funds hence have 12.5% LTCG applicable on profits(beyond threshold) after one year, if withdrawn.

Happy Investing;
X: @mars_invest

Ans: Hello;

You may keep max 3-4 L in your savings account and invest the balance funds in mutual funds as per your risk profile.

Apart from this you need to continue with PPF and open NPS account and invest regularly for retirement planning.

Do not fall for any endowment insurance policies because they provide abysmal return on your investment.

It is your personal choice to buy gold jewellery as much as you like but for investment sake best way to invest in gold is through SGBs or gold mutual funds.

Best wishes;
X: @mars_invest

Ans: Hello;

How much is your monthly household expenses?

How much pension does your Mom get? Is she covered under SGHS/CGHS for medical issues?

Please provide answers to these queries so as to advise you suitably.

Thanks;

Ans: Hello;

Answers to your queries are as follows:

1. Recommend you to go for active funds in this category 100%.

2. Expense ratio shouldn't be a determining factor for your fund investments.

Both funds although hybrid in nature have a different mandate to deploy their funds in different assets.

My view is you may continue with aggressive hybrid equity fund and gold fund as before.

Ultimately it is your decision.

Happy Investing;
X: @mars_invest

Ans: Dear Harsh,
Any competitive entrance exam requires focus, discipline and a lot of hard work. Unfortunately due to your circumstances, this hasn't been possible.
Your parents possibly don't want you to go through the disappointment all over again and feel that a regular degree will get your feet back on the ground. Now, whether you must write NEET again or not is a decision you will have to take BUT only if you have a firm plan in hand. You will need to get back all your focus and give it your best shot. Now, how important is this exam for you and why you want to take it, is something only you know. You will also need your parents' support in case you decide to go for it after all, so also consult with them. If you are able to inspire yourself, then you know what is to be done.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
What can you do other than just be by her side and simply understand her situation?
Her husband perhaps feels threatened by another male stepping in and hence delaying the divorce or not consenting to it will drag this whole thing...On your part, do not get so emotionally invested that it begins to take a toll on your peace of mind. This situation isn't going to be an easy one and it will just stretch your emotional band very thin; both for you and the lady. So, take it slow and it may help not being in the radar much so that the husband also backs off. It's sadly called - playing games.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/