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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 15, 2025

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - May 02, 2025
Money

Dear Sir, 1. Which is wise decision to invest whether in Flat purchasing Mumbai or Pune for about 85 lacs-2 BHK ( 70% should be loan ). Or go for Plot Purchase of around 2000 sq,ft in Nagpur of around 40 lacs with minimal loan amount. Which investment will provide good returns after 10 yrs. However, I have already two flat in two different city ( Mumbai and Nagpur) one debt free and another loan is continuing of 20 K EMI/month. How much inflation can we assume while in Flat and Plot for next 10 years. 2. Most probably i am thinking to move to Nagpur after 10 yrs ( Post retirement) , so suggest its wise decision to purchase plot now to do construction after 5-8 yrs. Or shall I purchase Plot when in i required to construct the independent house. Which should be profitable. 3. If you ask about the invest in Market or SIP . Right now I am 49 and investing in SIP of around 25K /month, Equity long term 1.5 lacs portfolio of around 20 lacs. PPF of around 6 lacs , LIC yearly 2.22 lacs premium and maturity shall be of around 50-6- lacs in different phase and life risk cover of around 80 lacs. Mediclaim of around 25 lacs cover. FD of around 25 lacs ( wants to invest in Flat or Plot) So pls suggest shall i add anything to improve my post retirement plan, cause my daughter is of only 5yrs old and wants to plan funds for her education in future. So kindly suggest . In the view of above scenario what is the best option and your suggestions to plan better. Regards

Ans: You have clearly outlined your financial position, goals, and decisions you are considering. It shows thoughtful planning and awareness about your future needs.

You have accumulated a solid financial base with multiple income-producing assets and long-term investments.

Now, let’s assess your situation from all angles and provide detailed suggestions for your post-retirement and daughter’s education planning.

Real Estate Decision – Flat or Plot?
You are considering a 2 BHK flat in Mumbai or Pune for Rs. 85 lakhs.

Around 70% of this cost would be through a home loan.

Alternatively, you are considering a 2000 sq.ft plot in Nagpur for Rs. 40 lakhs.

You already own two flats – one in Mumbai and one in Nagpur.

One of them is debt-free. The other has an EMI of Rs. 20,000 per month.

Adding a third property with a high loan burden may not be ideal.

Real estate is illiquid. It takes time to sell when needed.

Rental income is usually low in proportion to property cost.

Maintenance, taxes, legal costs, and vacancy risks reduce actual returns.

Real estate requires time, management, and ongoing financial attention.

Holding too much of your net worth in property creates concentration risk.

In your case, more real estate investment is not recommended.

You already have sufficient exposure through two flats.

Inflation in Property: Flat vs Plot
Over the next 10 years, inflation in property can vary across cities.

Flat prices usually grow at 5% to 7% per year.

But this is before deducting maintenance, property tax, and loan interest.

Plot prices may grow better in tier 2 cities like Nagpur.

Plot returns depend on location, infrastructure, and demand growth.

Historically, land appreciates better but does not generate any cash flow.

Flat gives rental income but has lower appreciation due to depreciation.

In the next decade, even 6%-8% annual growth will be considered decent.

So, neither flat nor plot is a guaranteed high-return asset.

That’s why mutual funds with flexibility and compounding are better long term.

Thinking of Shifting to Nagpur After Retirement?
You are thinking of settling in Nagpur post-retirement.

That is a clear and positive plan.

In this case, it’s not urgent to buy a plot right now.

You can wait and assess the locality and infrastructure after a few years.

Plot can be purchased 3 to 5 years before you need to build.

This gives you better clarity of available choices and better prices.

You also avoid keeping funds blocked in an idle land.

That money can work better for you in mutual funds and long-term growth options.

Later, you can buy a plot with maturity money from mutual funds, LIC, or FDs.

So, there is no need to rush into plot purchase today.

Should You Invest Rs. 40 to 85 Lakhs in Real Estate Now?
No, that may not be the most optimal decision.

Instead of investing in a third property, consider diversifying.

Real estate makes sense only when there is long-term use or rental value.

Mutual funds offer better liquidity, flexibility, and compounding benefits.

At 49, it’s time to make wealth work efficiently, not just grow size.

You can earn higher real returns through well-selected equity mutual funds.

Mutual funds also give you the option to withdraw as per need.

Property cannot be partially sold or withdrawn when needed.

Focus on financial assets that align with future expenses and goals.

Assessment of Current Investment Position
Monthly SIP of Rs. 25,000 is a strong and consistent investment habit.

Your mutual fund portfolio is around Rs. 20 lakhs. That is a good base.

Equity long-term capital gains are well-positioned for goal-based compounding.

PPF corpus of Rs. 6 lakhs adds safety and tax-free return.

LIC premiums of Rs. 2.22 lakhs per year need closer review.

Maturity value is around Rs. 50 to 60 lakhs across different policies.

Life risk cover of Rs. 80 lakhs is there. That offers some protection.

You also have Rs. 25 lakhs in FDs for immediate use.

Mediclaim cover of Rs. 25 lakhs is very good. It gives peace of mind.

All in all, your foundation is stable. But it can be sharpened.

What to Do With LIC Policies?
Review each LIC policy individually.

Check surrender value and maturity benefit vs premium paid.

If returns are below 5% annually, they are destroying your wealth.

Traditional insurance gives very low returns due to high costs.

Surrender poor-performing LIC policies and reinvest in mutual funds.

Use the maturity of good policies to support post-retirement needs.

Avoid mixing insurance and investment in future. Keep them separate.

Buy pure term cover for protection. Use mutual funds for investing.

This brings clarity, better returns, and tax-efficiency.

Planning for Daughter’s Education
Your daughter is 5 years old. Higher education will begin in 12 years.

That gives you a good time horizon to build a separate corpus.

Open a child goal SIP in a multi cap or balanced advantage fund.

Start investing minimum Rs. 10,000 per month towards this goal.

Step it up by 10% every year to match your income growth.

Keep this SIP separate from your retirement portfolio.

Do not mix children’s education fund with any other goal.

Track this goal using a calculator and review yearly.

Use long-term capital gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh judiciously as per new tax rules.

Enhancing Your Post-Retirement Plan
Post-retirement income should come from a mix of safe and growth assets.

Mutual funds in SWP mode give flexibility and steady income.

FD can be kept for 3 to 4 years of expenses for safety.

PPF maturity, LIC maturity, and NPS maturity should be staggered.

SIPs should be continued till age 60 and even beyond if possible.

Avoid holding excessive FD and real estate beyond 60 years.

Build at least Rs. 2 crores retirement corpus by age 60.

For that, continue SIPs with 10% step-up, focus on equity and hybrid funds.

Reduce property burden. Avoid taking large new loans now.

Invest more in mutual funds with the Rs. 25 lakh FD amount.

That will compound better and give you flexibility later.

Reallocate idle LIC premiums to higher-return options gradually.

Additional Suggestions
Do not invest in direct equity unless you can track daily.

Equity investing requires deep research, risk handling, and continuous tracking.

Instead, choose regular mutual fund plans with help of CFP.

Regular plans provide advisory, behavioural guidance, and rebalancing support.

Direct plans do not give any handholding or personalised planning.

Retirement, education, and healthcare goals need guided planning.

Avoid index funds. They lack downside protection and are rigid.

Actively managed funds perform better with fund manager strategies.

You can opt for balanced advantage funds in later years for stability.

Track inflation at 6% average for expenses. Use 8% return expectation for planning.

Do not overspend or overcommit in large-ticket assets now.

Finally
You are financially disciplined and forward-thinking. That is a strong quality.

Avoid new flat or plot now. Real estate already has high exposure in your portfolio.

Mutual funds will give you better returns, liquidity, and peace of mind.

Start separate SIPs for your daughter’s education. Keep it focused and growing.

Revisit all LIC policies. Exit low-return ones and shift to equity funds.

Invest your Rs. 25 lakhs FD in staggered manner into quality mutual funds.

Don’t increase loan burden. At age 49, focus on building financial flexibility.

Balance growth with safety. Mix equity, hybrid, and debt in right proportion.

With 10 years to retirement, create a clear retirement income strategy.

Continue protection with term cover and mediclaim. Those are non-negotiable.

Track goals yearly. Seek help from a Certified Financial Planner for a personalised plan.

The key to retirement success is goal-based investing, not asset hoarding.

Your wealth must support your dreams and responsibilities with ease.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 08, 2024

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Hello, My name is AB from Delhi. My age is 34. I have my own house. Having rented income of 20k. In my family my wife she is 33 and Housewife, my daughter 10months and planning for a baby in a year. I am earning around 50k month. No loan, no debt nothing. I have 2 lacs in emergency fund. I am having 15k medical insurance for all 3 of us of 5lac and will increase it to 10lakh or more from next year. Term insurance of 1crore. Sukanya opened in April 2024. I am doing stock market but not more than 50k overall and not planning to invest more. I am doing 6 SIPs. Below are the details. All are Direct Plans. PFA Mirae large and Mid - 2500 (22nd Nov 2023) Parag Flexi cap - 3500 (22nd Nov 2023) Quant small cap - 3000 (18th Dec 2023) HDFC Flexi Cap - 2500 (15th March 2024) Nippon India small cap - 2500(28th March 2024) UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund - 2500(26th March) I have some 25lacs with me because I sold one of my property. So planning for property is there anything else I can do with 25lacs? My questions are as follows:- 1. Review my portfolio I will invest Max 20k a month Should I add more SIP's or should I change some from above? 2. My goals are my children's education and marriage. 3. Wealthy and Retirement plan 4. Lumsum Amount 5. Need some lacs in every 4-5 years like for admission or for some emergency. 6. Want a luxury life for my family. 7. After 20 years I want 2.5cr. How much and where I have to invest?
Ans: It's evident that you've taken proactive steps to secure your family's financial future, AB. Let's address your questions systematically:
1. Portfolio Review: Your current portfolio reflects a well-diversified approach with exposure to large-cap, mid-cap, flexi-cap, and small-cap funds. However, since your investment horizon is long-term, you might consider adding more mid-cap and small-cap funds to potentially enhance returns. Additionally, periodically review your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your goals and risk tolerance.
2. Children's Education and Marriage: Your SIP investments can serve as a solid foundation for funding your children's education and marriage. Consider increasing your SIP contributions gradually over time to meet these goals effectively.
3. Wealth and Retirement Planning: Given your current financial situation and goals, focusing on building a diversified investment portfolio comprising equity, debt, and other asset classes is crucial. Consult a Certified Financial Planner to develop a comprehensive wealth and retirement plan tailored to your specific needs and aspirations.
4. Lump Sum Investments: With the 25 lakhs from selling your property, consider diversifying your investments across various asset classes such as mutual funds, stocks, bonds, and fixed deposits to optimize returns and manage risk.
5. Emergency Fund: Your emergency fund of 2 lakhs is a prudent move. As your financial responsibilities increase, consider gradually increasing this fund to cover at least 6-12 months of living expenses.
6. Luxury Life: Achieving a luxury lifestyle requires careful financial planning and disciplined savings. Allocate a portion of your monthly income towards discretionary expenses while ensuring you prioritize long-term goals.
7. Long-term Wealth Target: To achieve your target of 2.5 crores in 20 years, focus on consistent investing in equity mutual funds, which historically have provided higher returns over the long term. Review your portfolio periodically and make adjustments as needed to stay on track towards your wealth accumulation goal.
Remember, financial planning is an ongoing process, and it's essential to periodically review and adjust your strategy based on changes in your life circumstances, financial goals, and market conditions. By staying disciplined and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can work towards building a secure financial future for you and your family.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - May 14, 2025
Money
Dear Sir, 1. Which is wise decision to invest whether in Flat purchasing in Navi Mumbai or Pune for about 85 lacs-2 BHK ( 70% should be loan ) with yielding monthly rental of around 25-30 K. Or go for Plot Purchase of around 2000 sq,ft in Nagpur of around 40 lacs with minimal loan amount. Which investment will provide good returns after 10 yrs. However, I have already two flat in two different city ( Mumbai and Nagpur) one debt free and another loan is continuing of 20 K EMI/month with 12 yrs balance. How much inflation can we assume while in Flat and Plot for next 10 years. 2. Most probably i am thinking to move to Nagpur after 10 yrs ( Post retirement) , so suggest its wise decision to purchase plot now to do construction after 5-8 yrs. Or shall I purchase Plot when in i required to construct the independent house. Which should be profitable. 3. If you ask about the invest in Market or SIP . Right now I am 49 and investing in SIP of around 30K /month, Equity long term 1.5 lacs portfolio of around 20 lacs. PPF of around 6 lacs , LIC yearly 2.22 lacs premium and maturity shall be of around 50-60 lacs in different phase and life risk cover of around 80 lacs. Mediclaim of around 25 lacs cover. FD of around 25 lacs ( wants to invest in Flat or Plot) So pls suggest shall i add anything to improve my post retirement plan, cause my daughter is of only 5yrs old and wants to plan funds for her education in future. So kindly suggest . In the view of above scenario what is the best option and your suggestions to plan better. Regards
Ans: You have already built a strong asset base. You are also mindful of your responsibilities. This shows financial maturity.

We will analyse property choices, market investments, retirement preparedness, and your daughter’s future.

Let’s go point by point.

1. Flat in Navi Mumbai or Pune vs. Plot in Nagpur
Flat Option – Navi Mumbai / Pune (Rs. 85 lakh – 2 BHK)

Loan covers 70%. So, Rs. 60 lakh loan approx.

EMI will be high for 15–20 years.

Rent Rs. 25–30K. Yield is just 3.5–4.2% yearly.

Maintenance costs, property tax, vacancy risk will reduce returns.

Future resale profit is unpredictable. Price depends on market cycle.

You already have 2 flats. Third one adds more property exposure.

EMI burden may impact your cash flow stability.

Plot Option – Nagpur (Rs. 40 lakh for 2000 sq.ft)

Minimal or no loan needed. No EMI stress.

Plots don’t give monthly return. They stay idle.

But value appreciation can be good over 10 years if area is well chosen.

You plan to retire in Nagpur. Buying plot now gives time flexibility.

You can construct in 5–8 years. That saves future high construction costs.

Also avoids sudden pressure to find land later.

Assessment:

Buying a plot in Nagpur is more aligned with your life goals.

It avoids debt. It matches your plan to shift post-retirement.

A third flat with EMI may increase financial strain.

Rental yield in big cities is low. Tax and expenses eat into rent.

A plot offers emotional peace, less cost, and readiness for future home.

2. Real Estate Inflation for Next 10 Years
Flat Inflation:

Historically, flat prices increase 3–5% per year on average.

After adjusting for inflation, net gain is very low.

Future oversupply may reduce capital growth in big cities.

Plot Inflation:

Plots in growing tier-2 cities like Nagpur may grow 6–8% per year.

Location quality is key. If area gets developed, value grows fast.

Less regulation and no maintenance makes it cheaper to hold long term.

Insight:

Plot offers better long-term appreciation with less stress.

Flat gives rental income but poor capital growth and high costs.

You already have two flats. Plot diversifies your assets better.

3. Should You Buy Plot Now or Later?
If You Buy Now:

You get more choice. Prices are still within reach.

After 5–8 years, prices may double. Buying then may not be feasible.

Construction planning becomes easy if you already own land.

If You Wait:

You save FD amount now. But that grows at 6–6.5% only.

Land price growth may be higher than FD growth.

Delay may force you to compromise on location or pay much higher.

Evaluation:

It is wise to buy now and construct later.

You lock land cost today. You reduce retirement stress.

It gives your family emotional comfort and time flexibility.

4. Investment in SIPs, Equity and Retirement View
You are 49. Retirement is near.

Let’s review your portfolio:

SIP of Rs. 30,000/month: Very good. Continue without fail.

Equity long term holding: Rs. 20 lakh – strong asset for retirement.

PPF Rs. 6 lakh – stable and tax-free.

LIC – Annual premium of Rs. 2.22 lakh. Returns are limited.

Maturity of Rs. 50–60 lakh over time – acceptable, not high growth.

Life cover of Rs. 80 lakh – minimum acceptable. Consider Rs. 1 crore.

Mediclaim of Rs. 25 lakh – good cover.

FD of Rs. 25 lakh – not ideal for growth. Can be used for plot.

Suggestions to Improve Retirement Plan:

Increase SIP by Rs. 5,000–10,000 every year.

Shift some LIC money (if it is investment-cum-insurance) to mutual funds.

Surrender poor-return LIC policies if lock-in is over. Reinvest in equity mutual funds.

Work with a Certified Financial Planner to analyse each policy.

Keep your FD for emergencies and plot purchase.

Avoid putting full FD into property. Keep Rs. 5–6 lakh liquid.

You can plan partial withdrawal from PPF after 5 years for daughter’s education.

Review your asset allocation yearly.

Keep equity exposure high till retirement to beat inflation.

5. Planning for Daughter’s Education
She is only 5 years old. You have 12–13 years to build a solid fund.

Begin a separate SIP of Rs. 10,000–15,000 monthly for her goal.

Use long-term mutual funds with equity focus.

Don’t mix it with retirement or house building funds.

If you keep investing, you can reach Rs. 25–35 lakh by college time.

Avoid traditional child insurance plans. They offer poor returns.

Continue SSY if not already. It is tax-free and high interest.

Review the education goal yearly with inflation in mind.

6. Avoid These Mistakes
Don’t invest in more real estate for the sake of it.

Don’t rely only on LIC and FDs for post-retirement life.

Don’t delay plot purchase if you are emotionally sure about Nagpur.

Don’t mix daughter’s education and your retirement planning.

Don’t forget to review nominations in all assets.

Don’t make emotional investment decisions. Stay goal-based.

7. Additional Steps to Take
Prepare a will. You already have diverse assets.

Track your SIPs and equity portfolio every quarter.

Review LIC maturity plans. Know when cash will be available.

Keep your wife aware of all plans and accounts.

Work with a Certified Financial Planner for portfolio review.

Use mutual funds (regular plans) via MFD with CFP. Avoid direct funds.

They offer guidance, discipline, and handholding during market swings.

8. Final Insights
You are already doing well. Strong foundation is built.

Just avoid overexposure to real estate.

Plot in Nagpur suits your life plan best. Flat in Navi Mumbai doesn’t add value.

Don’t wait too long to act. Inflation will erode your purchasing power.

Increase equity SIPs slowly. It will protect your retirement.

Plan each goal separately. Daughter’s future needs focus.

Rebalance your portfolio every year. Discipline creates wealth.

Your future can be financially secure and peaceful with smart action today.

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

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Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |423 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Nov 12, 2025

Money
Dear sir, Hope you are doing well. Sir I am central govt employee ,36 yrs of age working in Bengaluru . I have invested in lands in tier 2 cities 3 plots(in hubli) for which loan has been cleared. monthly sips of 12000 in MF for education of daughters which i am expecting to give me good compounding yield over period of 12 years from now. purchased stocks of 5 lakhs & kept it for long term. as of now i dont have any loans and my salary and expenses and savings are at par . I may relocate to hubli (my native also)as part of rotational transfer of my job. once i relocate i am planning to buy a house as i have left 23 years of govt service , Is it wise to go for home loan & emis for a period of 23 yeras or wait for some more time to shell off the existing plots . I have health and term cover . as part of job i may relocate again to bengaluru after 3 years again.& i wish to settle down in Hubli after my service. currently planning to rent a house in hubli which is near to kv school to avoid transportation hassles for daughters. 1.should i purchase a land which is near by kv or should i go for outskirts of the city ( i should consider travel distances for my daugters school &colleges)? currently one daughter is in 2nd standard other is in nursery. 2.any other investment would you suggest for good returns as i am expecting salary hike from 8 th pay commission.
Ans: Hi Ijaz,

If you relocate to Hubli, getting into another fresh loan for 23 years is not a wise decision. Instead wait for some years and shell off existing plots to buy a home later.
Also your overall savings seem less. you should consider increasing your investments in mutual funds instead of direct stocks to get benefit of compounding. Use the hike from upcoming pay commission completely into starting new aggressive SIPs for your future. This way, you can buy a home in Hubli faster than you may plan to and that too without any loan.

For SIPs, you should consult a professional Certified Financial Planner - a CFP who can guide you with exact funds to invest in keeping in mind your age, requirements, financial goals and risk profile. A CFP periodically reviews your portfolio and suggest any amendments to be made, if required.

Let me know if you need more help.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

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Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
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Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently a 1st year UG student studying engineering in Sairam Engineering College, But there the lack of exposure and strict academics feels so rigid and I don't like it that. It's like they don't gaf about skills but just wants us to memorize things and score a good CGPA, the only skill they want is you to memorize things and pass, there's even special class for students who don't perform well in academics and it is compulsory for them to attend or else the student and his/her parents needs to face authorities who lashes out. My question is when did engineering became something that requires good academics instead of actual learning and skill set. In sairam they provides us a coding platform in which we need to gain the required points for each semester which is ridiculous cuz most of the students here just look at the solution to code instead of actual debugging. I am passionate about engineering so I want to learn and experiment things instead of just memorizing, so I actually consider dropping out and I want to give jee a try and maybe viteee , srmjeee But i heard some people say SRM may provide exposure but not that good in placements. I may not be excellent at studies but my marks are decent. So gimme some insights about SRM and recommend me other colleges/universities which are good at exposure
Ans: First — your frustration is valid

What you are experiencing at Sairam is not engineering, it is rote-based credential production.

“When did engineering become memorizing instead of learning?”

Sadly, this shift happened decades ago in most Tier-3 private colleges in India.

About “coding platforms & points” – your observation is sharp

You are absolutely right:

Mandatory coding points → students copy solutions

Copying ≠ learning

Debugging & thinking are missing

This is pseudo-skill education — it looks modern but produces shallow engineers.

The fact that you noticed this in 1st year already puts you ahead of 80% students.

Should you DROP OUT and prepare for JEE / VITEEE / SRMJEEE?

Although VIT/SRM is better than Sairam Engineering College, but you may face the same problem. You will not face this type of problem only in some top IITs, but getting seat in those IITs will be difficult.
Instead of dropping immediately, consider:

???? Strategy:

Stay enrolled (degree security)

Reduce emotional investment in college rules

Use:

GitHub

Open-source projects

Hackathons

Internships (remote)

Hardware / software self-projects

This way:

College = formality

Learning = self-driven

Risk = minimal

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |646 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 07, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Dear Madam, I was a bright student during my school days and my plan was to become a civil servant but that did not succeed even after several attempts. With the advise of my brother i went ahead and pursued Masters at a normal university in Sydney. I did internship and continued staying with my job though it wasn't my field of study. After that what came as a shock was my brother's divorce. We don't know what is the actual issue till date but I tried a lot to fix the gap by talking to his ex-wife but they were very orthodox. I couldn't see my brother suffer because he had planned and arranged so much for her. I had no choice then so i try to harm his ex-wife by spoiling her reputation thinking she will come back for him. In the mean time i got married to a girl who was her relative too thinking my wife can help us in some case but she turned out to be completely in the opposite direction. She was probably convinced by my brother's ex-wife or their relatives that she is not coming back. Even then my brother tried to go meet his ex-wife through many channels. My wife did not help him at all in any aspect. Finally the divorced happened and everything ended. Now we have sought several proposals but nothing seem to be a good fit for him. Most of the girls whom we met on matrimonial sites are fake profiles with something hidden or falsely represented. I would say my brother escaped all this. But we are worried about his life now as he is already in his 40's and he seem to be struggling for a good job and finance. He is very picky probably but doesn't talk much to all of us. Sometimes he even says the game is over so no point looking at a second marriage. My wife and he fought once when he visited us because she didn't want him in our house and she created a fight putting me in the front. After that he stopped coming to our house or see us or talk to us. Things even gets worse sometimes when her brother comes and visits us and stays at our house which my parents don't like. My parents argue that your brother was not allowed to stay for few months then how come her brother is allowed for several months. What kind of partiality is that? I feel i could not do anything for him despite the fact that he is my only brother. He is good at heart and looked after me when i went abroad financially and even came to meet me few times. I tried to send him money, gifts but he is still the same. He communicates with our parents but not with me nor my wife anymore. Kindly give us a good advise.
Ans: Your brother’s distance is not a rejection of you. It is his way of protecting himself. He went through a difficult marriage, an emotional collapse, and then watched people around him — including you — react out of desperation to fix things for him. Even though your intentions came from love, he may have associated those actions with more pain and pressure. When a person has been wounded, silence feels safer than conversation. His withdrawal simply means he is tired, not that he dislikes you.
You also need to understand that the guilt you are carrying is heavier than it needs to be. You tried to intervene in his marriage because you wanted to protect him, not because you wanted to cause harm. Looking back now, with more maturity and clarity, you see the mistakes, but at that time, you were acting out of fear and love. This is why it’s important to forgive yourself instead of punishing yourself over and over.
The conflict between your wife and your brother only added another layer of stress, because it forced you into choosing sides. Your wife reacted emotionally, your brother pulled away, your parents questioned the imbalance — and in the middle of all this, you lost your sense of peace. But their disagreements are not failures on your part. They are the natural result of people operating from insecurity, fear, and past hurt.
What needs to happen now is a shift in your role. You cannot continue trying to solve everything for everyone. You cannot carry your brother’s marriage, your wife’s fears, and your parents’ judgments all at once. It’s time to step out of the role of rescuer and step into the role of a grounded, calm brother who offers presence, not solutions.
Rebuilding your bond with your brother will not come from pushing proposals, sending gifts, or trying to fix his life. It will come from offering him emotional safety. A simple message, expressing that you are sorry for any hurt, that you care for him, and that you are available whenever he feels ready, will speak louder than any effort to arrange his future. Once you send such a message, the healthiest thing you can do is give him space. Sometimes relationships repair themselves in silence, when pressure is removed.
And for yourself, healing begins when you stop believing that every problem in the family rests on your shoulders. You have given more than enough over the years. Now you deserve emotional rest. You deserve peace. You deserve to feel like a brother, not a crisis manager.
Your brother may take time, but distance does not erase love. When he feels safe, he will come closer again. Your responsibility is not to force that moment, but to make sure you are emotionally steady and ready when it happens.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 11, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear sir This is regarding my mother's financials. She is 71 years old and she earns a pension of 31k p.m. She has FD's worth 60 lacs and earns interest income of Rs.25k. I wish to know if we can buy mutual funds worth 10 lacs by diverting funds from FD for better returns. She owns a house and does not have house rent commitment . She is currently investing 10k p.m in SIP . Now the lump sum investment of 5 lacs each is intended to be done in HDFC balanced advantage fund Direct Growth and ICICI Prudential balanced advantage fund . Please advise
Ans: You are caring about your mother’s future.
This shows deep responsibility.
Her financial base also looks strong today.
Her pension gives steady cash.
Her FD interest gives extra safety.
Her home is secure.
Her SIP shows healthy discipline.

» Her Present Financial Position
Your mother is 71.
Her age makes safety a key priority.
But some growth is also needed.

She gets Rs 31000 pension each month.
This covers most basic needs.
Her FD interest adds Rs 25000 per month.
So her total monthly inflow is near Rs 56000.
This is healthy at her age.

She owns her house.
She has no rent stress.
This gives great relief.

She has FD worth Rs 60 lakh.
This gives safe income.
She also runs a SIP of Rs 10000 per month.
This is a good step.
It keeps her connected to long-term growth.

Her total structure looks balanced.
She has safety.
She has income.
She has some growth exposure.
She has low liabilities.

This is a very stable base for her age.

» Understanding Her Risk Level
At age 71, risk must be low.
But risk cannot be zero.
Zero risk pushes money into FD only.
FD return stays low.
FD return sometimes falls after tax.
FD return often stays below inflation.

This reduces future buying power.
Inflation in India stays high.
Medical costs rise fast.
Home repair costs rise.
Daily needs rise.
So some growth is needed.

Balanced exposure gives stability.
Balanced allocation protects both sides.
She should not go too high on equity.
She should not avoid equity fully.
A middle path works best at this age.

Your idea of shifting Rs 10 lakh for growth is fine.
But the type of fund must be chosen well.
The plan must also follow her age.
Her risk must be respected.

» Impact of Growth Options at Her Age
Growth funds move with markets.
Markets move up and down.
These swings can disturb seniors.
But some controlled equity helps fight inflation.

Funds with mix of equity and debt help.
They adjust risk.
They protect capital better.
They manage volatility better.
They offer smoother experience.
They suit senior citizens more.

So a mild growth approach is healthy.
This gives better long-term value.
This gives inflation protection.
This reduces long-term stress.

Still, the fund choice must be careful.
And the plan style must be guided.

» Concerns With Direct Plans
You mentioned direct funds.
Direct funds seem cheap.
But cheap is not always better.

Direct funds give no guidance.
Direct funds give no review support.
Direct funds give no risk matching.
Direct funds need constant study.
Direct funds need skill.
Direct funds need time.

Many investors think direct plans save money.
But small savings can cause big losses.
Wrong choices reduce returns.
Wrong timing reduces gains.
Wrong exit increases tax.

Regular plans bring professional support through MFDs with CFP credentials.
They offer yearly reviews.
They track risk closely.
They guide corrections.
They support crisis moments.
They help in asset mix.
They help keep emotions stable.

This support is very helpful for seniors.
Your mother will not need to study markets.
She will not need to track cycles.
She will not need to worry about volatility.
She can stay calm.

So regular plans may suit her better.
The small extra fee is actually buying professional hand-holding.
This hand-holding protects wealth.
This reduces mistakes.
This brings long-term peace.

» Her Liquidity Need
At age 71, liquidity matters.
She must access money fast during emergencies.
Medical needs can arise.
Health cost can be sudden.
She must be ready.

FD gives quick access.
This is useful.
So FD should not be reduced too much.

Shifting Rs 10 lakh is acceptable.
But shifting more may reduce comfort.
She must always feel safe.
Her emotional comfort is important.

So Rs 10 lakh is the right level.
It keeps major FD corpus safe.
It keeps growth exposure controlled.

This balance supports her peace.

» Her Current SIP
She puts Rs 10000 per month in SIP.
This is positive.
This brings slow steady growth.
This builds long-term value.

She should continue this SIP.
She may reduce it later based on comfort.
But she should not stop it now.
This SIP adds inflation protection.
This SIP builds a small buffer.

A continuous SIP helps smooth markets.
It builds confidence.

» Income Stability for Her
Her pension covers needs.
Her FD interest adds comfort.
Her SIP invests for future needs.
Her home saves rent.

So she has stable income.
Her life standard is maintained.
Her risk level can stay low.

Her monthly cash flow is positive.
Her needs are covered.
So she need not worry about returns too much.
But a little growth is still healthy.

» Should She Shift Rs 10 Lakh From FD?
Yes, she can shift Rs 10 lakh.
This does not hurt her safety.
This does not shake her cash flow.
This supports inflation protection.

But the fund must be right.
The plan must match her age.
The risk must stay low.
The allocation must stay controlled.

A balanced strategy is better.
Smooth returns suit seniors.
Moderate risk suits her age.

Still, the fund must be in regular plan.
Direct plan may cause long-term risk.
Direct plans place the heavy load on the investor.
At her age, this stress is avoidable.
Regular plans give smoother support.

» Why Not Use the Specific Schemes Mentioned
The schemes you named are direct plans.
Direct plans give no support.
Direct plans leave all decisions to you.
Direct plans leave all risk checks on you.

Also, each fund has its own style.
Each adjusts differently.
You must check suitability.
You must review them yearly.
This needs time and skill.

For her age, this is not ideal.
A simple, guided, regular plan works better.

Also, some funds change risk levels fast.
Some increase equity without warning.
Some change style in market shifts.
This can disturb seniors.
She must stay with stable funds.
She must stay with guided models.

This protects her long-term peace.

» The Role of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds suit Indian markets.
India grows fast.
Sectors rise and fall fast.
Many companies grow fast.
Many also fall fast.

Active managers study these shifts.
They adjust quicker.
They avoid weak sectors.
They add strong businesses.
They protect downside.
They enhance upside.

Index funds cannot do this.
Index funds copy indices.
Indices carry weak companies also.
Indices carry overpriced stocks.
Indices do not avoid bad phases.
Indices cannot change weight fast.
So index funds give no defensive shield.

Actively managed funds work harder.
They try to reduce shocks.
They try to smooth volatility.
This suits seniors more.

So an active regular plan through an MFD with CFP credentials is better for her.

» Tax Angle on Mutual Fund Redemption
Capital gain rules matter.
For equity funds, long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh have 12.5% tax.
Short-term gains have 20% tax.
Debt fund gains follow your tax slab.

Senior investors must plan exits well.
They must avoid excess tax shock.
They must stagger withdrawals.
They must redeem only when needed.

A guided regular plan helps avoid tax mistakes.
Direct funds offer no such guidance.

» Her Emergency Preparedness
At her age, emergency readiness is key.
She must have quick cash.
She must have easy access.
Her FD base helps this.

She has Rs 60 lakh in FD.
This is strong.
She should keep most of this.
Maybe an emergency bucket of Rs 5 to 10 lakh must stay fully liquid.

This brings peace.
This prevents panic.
This avoids forced redemption.

» Family Support System
You are involved.
This protects her retirement.
You can offer emotional help.
You can offer decision help.
This support makes her financial life safe.

Family support keeps stress low for seniors.
She will feel secure.
She will stay calm during market changes.

» How Her Future Years Can Stay Stable
She needs comfort.
She needs safety.
She needs liquidity.
She needs some growth.
She needs health cover.
She needs emotional peace.

A control-based plan helps:
– Keep most money in FD
– Keep some in balanced mutual funds
– Keep SIP running
– Keep money easily accessible
– Keep risk low
– Keep asset mix simple
– Keep tax impact low
– Keep reviews yearly

This keeps her retirement smooth.

» Built-In Protection for Senior Life
Her plan must also protect future risk.
Medical cost may rise.
Home repairs may occur.
Occasional family support may be needed.

So she must:
– Keep cash bucket
– Keep healthy insurance
– Keep documents updated
– Keep financial papers organised
– Keep digital and physical files safe

This brings long-term safety.

» Withdrawal Strategy
She may not need withdrawals now.
Her income covers expenses.
But she may need money in later years.

She should follow a layered method:

Short-term needs from FD

Medium needs from balanced funds

Long-term needs from SIP corpus

Emergency money from liquid FD

This spreads risk.
This avoids sudden losses.
This protects her capital.

» Assessing the Rs 10 Lakh Transfer
This transfer is fine.
But it must not go to direct plans.
It must go to regular plans.
Guided plans reduce mistakes.
Guided plans suit seniors.

Split into two funds is fine.
But avoid too much complexity.
Simple structure reduces stress.
Easy structure improves clarity.

So two regular plans through an MFD with CFP credentials is ideal.

» Final Insights
Your mother has a strong base.
Her pension is stable.
Her FD pool is healthy.
Her home reduces cost.
Her SIP adds growth.

Adding Rs 10 lakh into balanced mutual funds is a good idea.
But shift to regular plans with expert guidance.
Direct plans are not suitable for seniors.
They bring more risk.
They bring more complexity.
They bring more stress.

Regular plans bring reviews.
Regular plans match risk.
Regular plans reduce mistakes.
Regular plans suit her age.

Her future looks stable with this mix.
Her life can stay comfortable.
She can enjoy her senior years with peace.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi, I am 53 years with a wife and two children. My total savings comprising of MF, Shares, PDF,EPF, NPS & FD are approx. 3Cr. Our current monthly outgoing including SIPs is approximately 100000. Will the above savings amount be sufficient to sustain for the next 20 years?
Ans: You have managed to build Rs 3 Cr by age 53.
This shows steady discipline.
Your savings mix also looks balanced.
Your family seems stable.
Your cost control also looks fair.
This gives a good base for the next stage of life.

» Your Current Position
Your savings stand near Rs 3 Cr.
Your monthly outflow is near Rs 100000.
This includes your SIP amount also.
Your family has four members.
You have two children.
Your wife is with you.
You have a mixed pool across MF, shares, PF, EPF, NPS, and FD.
This mix brings both growth and stability.
This gives you a good base.

Your age is 53.
You have around 7 to 12 working years left.
This period is crucial.
Your decisions now shape the next 20 years.
Your savings rate also matters.
Your cost control also shapes the future.

Today’s numbers show you have a good foundation.
But sustainability depends on many factors.
We must study inflation, spending pattern, growth pattern, tax, risk level, health cost, and cash flow flexibility.

» Understanding the Cash Flow Stress
Your family spends around Rs 100000 today.
This includes SIP.
After retirement, SIP will stop.
But living costs will continue.
Costs increase each year.
Inflation can eat cash fast.
So we must ensure growth in wealth.
Slow growth can stress the corpus.
Fast growth brings more shocks.
So balance is key.

Rs 3 Cr looks large today.
But 20 years is long.
Inflation reduces buying power.
Medical costs also rise.
Family needs also shift.

Your money can last 20 years.
But it needs correct planning.
Blind use of the corpus will not help.
Proper flow matters.
Proper asset selection also matters.
You need steady growth.
You need low shocks.
You need stable income.

» Role of Growth Assets
Many families fear growth assets.
But growth assets are needed today.
Inflation is strong in India.
If money stays in FD only, it suffers.
FD return stays low.
Post-tax return stays even lower.
FD return does not beat inflation.
FD cannot support long-term plans.

Mutual funds bring better growth.
Actively managed funds bring better research.
They allow expert judgement.
They can handle market swings better.
They study sectors and businesses.
They adjust the portfolio.
They aim for more consistent returns.
This helps protect wealth.

Some people choose direct plans.
But direct plans need full time study.
They need skill.
They need discipline.
Most investors do not have the time.
Wrong choices can reduce returns.
Direct plans give no guidance.
Direct plans can reduce long-term peace.

Regular plans through an MFD with CFP credential give better support.
They help with reviews.
They help with corrections.
They help with rebalancing.
They help manage behaviour.
They save time and stress.

You already have MF exposure.
This is good.
You should keep this path.
Active fund management will help long-term stability.

» Role of Safety Assets
You have EPF, PPF, NPS, FD.
These give safety.
They give peace.
But they give lower return.
Too much safety reduces future income.
A mix of both is needed.

Safety assets give steady income.
But they do not grow fast.
They cannot support 20 years alone.
So balance must be kept.

» Assessing the Sustainability for 20 Years
Rs 3 Cr can support 20 years.
But it depends on:

Your retirement age

Your spending pattern

Your ability to reduce costs

Your asset mix

Your growth rate

Your inflation level

Your health cost

Your emergency needs

If your core expenses stay in control, your corpus can last.
If you invest well, your corpus can support you.
If you avoid panic, your wealth will grow.
Your children may also get settled.
Your own needs may reduce.

The key is proper planning.
Without planning, the corpus can shrink fast.
With planning, it will last long.

» Inflation Impact
Inflation is silent.
It eats buying power.
Costs double every few years.
Food rises.
Health rises.
Daily life rises.
School fees rise.
Lifestyle rises.

If your money grows slower than inflation, you lose power.
So growth assets must be part of the plan.
They help beat inflation.
They help protect lifestyle.
They help support long-term needs.

This is why active mutual funds stay useful.
They bring research-driven decisions.
They help fight inflation better.
They stay flexible.
They move with the economy.

» Evaluating Your Retirement Readiness
You stand near retirement zone.
You still have some working life.
You still earn.
You still save.
Your income supports your SIP.
This is good.
This is the right stage to improve planning.

Your SIP amount builds future cash.
Your insurance must be proper.
Your emergency fund must be strong.
Your health cover must be strong.

You have PF and NPS.
These give safety.
They bring stability.
They give steady return.
But they do not give high return.
Growth will come from MF and equity.

Your retirement readiness depends on:

Cash flow plan

Growth plan

Insurance plan

Medical cover plan

Long-term income plan

Withdrawal plan

When all parts align, you will stay secure.

» Withdrawal Strategy for the Future
When you retire, cash flow must stay smooth.
You cannot depend on FD alone.
You cannot depend only on EPF.
You cannot depend on one asset class.
You need a mix.

Your withdrawal should come from:

Some from safety assets

Some from growth assets

Some from periodic rebalancing

This helps you avoid panic selling.
This helps you maintain stability.
This protects your lifestyle.

Tax must also be managed.
Tax on equity MF has new rules.
Long-term gain above Rs 1.25 lakh has 12.5% tax.
Short-term gain has 20% tax.
Debt MF gain follows your tax slab.
These rules shape your withdrawal plan.
You must plan redemptions wisely.

» Health and Family Factors
Health cost is rising in India.
Hospital bills rise fast.
Health shocks drain savings.
So good health cover is needed.
Family needs must be studied.

Your children may still need some support.
Their education or marriage may need funds.
These costs must be planned early.
You should not dip into retirement money.
Clear planning avoids stress.

Your wife also needs future support.
Joint planning is better.
Shared decisions help discipline.

» Need for a Structured Review
A structured review every year is needed.
Your income may change.
Your savings may rise.
Your spending may shift.
Your goals may change.
Your risk level may shift.
Your family needs may change.

Review helps you stay on track.
Review helps catch issues early.
Review helps you correct mistakes.
Review brings peace.

A Certified Financial Planner can guide reviews.
This support builds confidence.
This reduces stress.
This brings clarity.

» How to Strengthen Your Position
You already stand strong.
But you can still improve.
Here are some steps to make your 20 years safer.

Keep your growth-safety mix balanced

Increase your SIP when income allows

Avoid direct plans if guidance needed

Use regular plans for proper support

Avoid real estate due to low returns

Increase your emergency fund

Improve your health cover

Avoid ULIP and mixed plans if you ever have them

Review your EPF and NPS allocation

Track your spending carefully

Plan for yearly rebalancing

Keep enough liquidity for short needs

Keep boredom decisions away

Stay invested even in tough times

Trust long-term compounding

Each step adds stability.
Your family will feel safe.

» Building a Strong Future Income Flow
Income must not come from one basket.
Income should come from:

MF SWP

PF interest

FD ladder

NPS withdrawal in a slow way

Equity redemption in a planned way

This spreads risk.
This spreads tax.
This spreads stress.

Staggered withdrawal helps peace.
Your money grows even while you spend.
Your corpus stays healthy.

» Maintaining Low Stress in Retirement
Retirement should be peaceful.
Money stress should be low.
Good planning ensures this.

Keep clear communication with your family.
Keep your files organised.
Keep your goals updated.
Keep calm during market swings.

Your corpus can support you.
Your strategy will shape your peace.

» Final Insights
Your Rs 3 Cr corpus is a strong base.
Your age gives you time to improve more.
Your monthly spending is manageable.
Your asset mix supports your future.

But planning is needed.
Cash flow must be aligned with inflation.
Growth assets must stay active.
Safety assets must be balanced.
Withdrawal must be planned wisely.
Health cost must be covered.
Risk must be contained.

With proper planning, your wealth can support the next 20 years.
Your family can live with comfort.
Your lifestyle can stay stable.
Your future can stay safe.

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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