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Retirement on the horizon: What to do with my accumulated SIP funds?

Ramalingam Kalirajan |10872 Answers |Ask -Follow

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 01, 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

Question by Rakesh on Mar 31, 2025Hindi

Money

In 2010 i have started a monthly sip of 3k in hdfc top 100 equity regular fund and now from last almost 5 years contribution has stopped. Please suggest if what to do with accumulated amount should I withdraw or leave as is or something else. i am 45 yrs old and seeking to retire in next 1-2 years.

Ans: You have held this mutual fund for 14 years, and the SIP contributions stopped 5 years ago. Now, you are considering whether to withdraw, hold, or reinvest as you approach retirement in the next 1-2 years.

Let’s analyze your options.

Understanding Your Investment
Investment Duration: 14 years (Started in 2010, SIP stopped around 2019).

Fund Type: Large-cap equity fund.

Current Market Conditions: Large-cap funds generally provide stable growth over long periods.

Key Considerations for Decision-Making
1. Retirement Timeline and Liquidity Needs
You plan to retire within 1-2 years.

You need a strategy that secures your capital while allowing for future growth.

If you need money for expenses, partial withdrawal might be necessary.

2. Growth vs. Safety Balance
Equity funds are good for long-term growth but can be volatile in the short term.

Since you are close to retirement, market fluctuations can impact withdrawals.

Keeping 100% in equity may not be ideal at this stage.

3. Tax Implications of Withdrawal
Since your investment is more than 1 year old, it qualifies for long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax.

New Tax Rule: LTCG above Rs. 1.25L is taxed at 12.5%.

If your gains are below Rs. 1.25L, there is no tax liability.

A staggered withdrawal approach can help reduce tax impact.

Recommended Strategy for Your Fund
Option 1: Hold and Convert to a Conservative Investment
If you don’t need immediate funds, move gradually to a balanced or hybrid fund.

This will reduce volatility and provide stable returns.

Use Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) to shift the corpus in phases.

Option 2: Partial Withdrawal for Emergency and Expenses
If you need funds in 1-2 years, withdraw in small portions over time.

This reduces tax burden and avoids selling everything during a market dip.

Keep withdrawn funds in a liquid fund or fixed-income option for safety.

Option 3: Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) Post-Retirement
Instead of withdrawing fully, convert to a fund that supports SWP.

This will create a steady post-retirement income while keeping some market exposure.

Ensure SWP amount is less than the fund’s average returns to sustain withdrawals.

Final Insights
Since you are close to retirement, move gradually to a balanced approach.

Use STP or partial withdrawals to reduce equity risk and tax burden.

If you need cash soon, withdraw in phases rather than in one lump sum.

If not needed immediately, use SWP for post-retirement cash flow.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Asked on - Jul 02, 2025 | Answered on Jul 02, 2025

In continuation of above query, I need this amount partially or in full in 4-5 years for kids higher education and current valuation is around 18.5L. As you have mentioned to follow a balanced approach please suggest more on this.

Ans: Since you’ll need the Rs.18.5L in 4–5 years for your child’s education, a balanced and phased exit is the right approach.

Here’s a simple plan:

Move the full amount to a conservative hybrid fund using STP from your current equity fund.

Complete the STP transfer in 6–12 months to reduce market timing risk.

After transfer, let the hybrid fund grow safely for 3–4 years.

Begin Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) in the 5th year to fund education needs.

This way, you protect gains, reduce volatility, and align with your timeline.

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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I am investing in HDFC Small Cap Mutual Fund since Sep 2019 and till date accumulated 35% gain on investment from SIP of 2500/month. When I bought this scheme it was 5 star rated but now it's degraded to 2 star. As per current scheme, if i continue more than 3 year the profits get lowered to 12-15% range. Consider the current gain, i would like to know the view: should i continue SIP or withdraw the total sum and invest the received money in some other higher rated and profit making small cap fund like Quant, BOI etc., with same amount of SIP. Kindly guide and also advise which fund to switch if switch is recommended. My view is long term return for kid’s higher education, who is 4 year old.

Ans: No need to change, please continue for long term.

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Question by Surander - Apr 28, 2023Hindi

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I am investing HDFC midcap opportunity fund since 2020 and having profit approximate 3lacs. Should i continue or withdraw.

Ans: Hi Surander, thanks for writing to me. You can continue investing in the fund.

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Asked by Anonymous - Oct 20, 2023Hindi

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sir, I have invested through SIP in Mirae Asset emerging blue chip fund,(current value 3.5 lakhs) Aditya Birla Sunlife 96 tax relief(current value2.50lakhs), Axis long term Equity fund(current value 1.8 lakhs), Canara Robeco Equity tax saver fund(current value 1.20 lakhs), Sundaram Diversified equity (Current value 1.lakh) and i have stopped SIP 3 years back in all these funds and not withdrawn any amount. suggest to keep the amount in these funds as it is or withdraw and invest lumpsum in some other funds

Ans: Assessing Your Mutual Fund Portfolio for Optimal Growth

Current Portfolio Overview:

Your current mutual fund portfolio comprises several funds across different categories, including Mirae Asset emerging blue chip fund, Aditya Birla Sunlife 96 tax relief, Axis long term Equity fund, Canara Robeco Equity tax saver fund, and Sundaram Diversified equity.

Evaluation of Current Investments:

Your portfolio demonstrates a diversified approach, spanning both large-cap and tax-saving funds.

Assessment of Fund Performance:

Mirae Asset Emerging Blue Chip Fund: This fund has shown consistent performance historically and may continue to deliver good returns over the long term.

Aditya Birla Sunlife 96 Tax Relief: As a tax-saving fund, it offers the dual benefit of tax savings under Section 80C and potential capital appreciation.

Axis Long Term Equity Fund: This ELSS fund has a track record of delivering robust returns and can be considered for long-term wealth creation.

Canara Robeco Equity Tax Saver Fund: Similar to other ELSS funds, it offers tax benefits along with the potential for capital appreciation.

Sundaram Diversified Equity Fund: This fund focuses on diversified equity investments and aims to generate wealth over the long term.

Recommendations:

Review Fund Performance: Evaluate the performance of each fund against its benchmark and peers to ensure it aligns with your investment objectives.

Consider Market Conditions: Assess the current market conditions and economic outlook to gauge the potential performance of your funds in the future.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner: Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to review your investment strategy and make informed decisions based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.

Consolidate and Rebalance: Consider consolidating your mutual fund holdings to streamline your portfolio and reduce overlap. Rebalance your portfolio periodically to maintain an optimal asset allocation mix.

Stay Invested for the Long Term: Avoid making impulsive decisions based on short-term market fluctuations. Stay invested for the long term to benefit from the power of compounding and potential wealth creation.

Final Thoughts:

In conclusion, maintaining a well-diversified mutual fund portfolio is essential for long-term wealth creation. Regularly monitor your investments, review fund performance, and seek professional advice to make informed decisions aligned with your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ramalingam Kalirajan |10872 Answers |Ask -Follow

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 17, 2024Hindi

Money

Dear Sir, I have 3 uninterrupted SIPs in, hdfc flexible cap, hdfc top 100 and hdfc mid cap fund, 1000 each since Jan. 2011. Now my service has terminated. What to do now please suggest.

Ans: First of all, congratulations on your disciplined investment journey! Having maintained uninterrupted SIPs since January 2011 is an excellent achievement. Your long-term commitment is praiseworthy and reflects your foresight in building wealth for the future. This is something not everyone manages to do consistently, and it already puts you in a strong financial position.

However, with the termination of your service, there is a need to reassess your situation.

Assessing Your Financial Position Post-Service Termination
Since your service has ended, your immediate focus should be on understanding your current financial needs. SIPs are designed for long-term growth, but it’s crucial to ensure that they align with your present circumstances.

Liquidity Needs: Assess your cash flow requirements. Do you have enough savings to manage your household expenses? Without regular income from your job, it’s essential to evaluate whether your current assets and savings can sustain your living expenses.

Emergency Fund: Before continuing your SIPs, ensure that you have an emergency fund in place. Ideally, you should have 6-12 months of living expenses in a liquid asset or savings account. This will provide a cushion in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Debt Obligations: Review any ongoing liabilities. If you have loans or debts, prioritize them. You may want to pause your SIPs temporarily until your financial situation stabilizes. Paying off high-interest loans should be a priority to avoid accumulating more financial strain.

Continue or Pause SIPs?
Given the uncertainty of your income post-service, you may need to make a decision regarding your SIPs.

If You Have a Stable Financial Cushion: If you have adequate savings and don’t foresee any immediate financial strain, you should continue with your SIPs. Staying invested allows you to benefit from rupee cost averaging, which smooths out market volatility over time. This is especially important in equity investments, as long-term investors can gain significantly by riding through market cycles.

If You Are Facing Financial Pressure: If you are facing immediate financial pressure, pausing SIPs may be a prudent choice. This is not to say you should redeem your investments but rather pause further contributions until your income stabilizes. Pausing SIPs temporarily doesn’t close your account, and you can resume contributions when your situation improves.

Evaluating Your Current Mutual Fund Portfolio
Let’s now shift focus to the mutual funds in which you’ve been investing. Since you’ve held these funds for over 13 years, they would have seen various market cycles. This is an ideal time to review whether these funds still align with your goals.

Fund Performance: Review the performance of each of your mutual funds. Compare their returns with the benchmark and peer group funds. Have they consistently outperformed the market? If the funds have underperformed or failed to meet your expectations, you might want to consider reallocating to better-performing funds.

Fund Type: Your portfolio includes large-cap and mid-cap funds. While these offer growth potential, they also carry varying levels of risk. With your service terminated, you might have a lower risk tolerance now. If you feel uneasy about market volatility, you could consider shifting a portion of your portfolio to less volatile options like balanced or hybrid funds.

Benefits of Regular Funds through a Certified Financial Planner
Since you’ve been investing consistently, you must ensure that your investments are well-managed. It’s often tempting to switch to direct funds, thinking that you’ll save on fees, but that may not always be the best approach.

Regular Funds through Certified Financial Planner (CFP): Regular funds, when invested through a certified financial planner, come with the benefit of professional guidance. A CFP provides personalized advice, which ensures that your investments are aligned with your financial goals. They help you navigate complex market conditions and give you peace of mind, especially during uncertain times like post-service termination.

The Disadvantages of Direct Funds: In direct funds, you are responsible for making all investment decisions. This requires in-depth market knowledge and constant monitoring of your portfolio. Without professional assistance, you might miss out on timely opportunities or expose yourself to unnecessary risks. Moreover, the cost-saving from direct funds is often marginal when compared to the benefits of expert advice.

Tax Implications on Mutual Fund Investments
You have been investing for over a decade, and it’s essential to be aware of the tax implications if you decide to redeem any of your mutual funds.

Equity Mutual Funds: If you sell equity mutual funds, any long-term capital gains (LTCG) exceeding Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term capital gains (STCG), if the holding period is less than a year, are taxed at 20%.

Debt Mutual Funds: In case you hold debt mutual funds, the taxation rules differ. Both LTCG and STCG from debt funds are taxed as per your income tax slab. This means if you are in the higher income bracket, you could be paying a significant portion in taxes on these gains.

Understanding these tax implications is critical if you are considering redeeming any investments. You may want to strategize your redemptions to minimize the tax burden.

Diversifying Your Investments to Mitigate Risk
With the end of your service, your financial needs and goals may have changed. This is the right time to reassess and possibly diversify your portfolio to align it with your current risk appetite and long-term objectives.

Balance between Risk and Stability: Consider diversifying into debt funds or hybrid funds, which offer a balanced mix of equity and debt. These funds provide stability and reduce exposure to market volatility while still offering decent returns.

Avoid Real Estate: While real estate may seem like a tempting option to secure your future, it lacks liquidity and often involves high maintenance costs. Since you might need liquidity post-service termination, it’s better to focus on more liquid investments like mutual funds, PPF, or even government-backed schemes like Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) after you reach 60.

Strengthening Your Insurance Coverage
Since you’ve mentioned that your service has been terminated, it’s crucial to assess your insurance needs, particularly health and life insurance.

Health Insurance: If your previous employer provided health insurance, ensure that you have your own personal health insurance policy now. Medical expenses can be overwhelming, and without coverage, they can severely strain your finances. A comprehensive health insurance plan with adequate cover is crucial.

Life Insurance: Reassess your life insurance requirements. If you hold any investment-linked policies like ULIPs or endowment plans, it may be wise to surrender them and reinvest the proceeds in mutual funds. Pure term insurance is the most cost-effective option to secure your family’s future without the added investment component.

Final Insights
Your consistent SIP investments since 2011 are a testament to your financial discipline. Even though your service has terminated, you are in a good position with a decade-long investment journey behind you. However, the new phase in your life calls for some careful re-evaluation.

Reassess Your Liquidity Needs: Ensure you have enough emergency funds to cover 6-12 months of living expenses.

Review Your SIPs: Continue if you have sufficient savings, or pause temporarily if you are facing financial strain.

Check Fund Performance: Ensure your funds are still aligned with your financial goals. If any underperform, consider switching.

Consider the Benefits of Regular Funds through a CFP: Avoid the temptation to switch to direct funds. Regular funds, managed by a certified financial planner, provide professional guidance and reduce the burden on you to manage your portfolio.

Understand Tax Implications: Be aware of the taxes on your mutual fund gains, especially if you are planning any redemptions.

Diversify: Consider balancing your portfolio with low-risk options like debt or hybrid funds.

Review Your Insurance Needs: Ensure adequate health and life insurance coverage post-service termination.

By taking these steps, you will not only protect your investments but also ensure that your financial journey remains stable and secure for the future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Latest Questions

Nayagam P P |10851 Answers |Ask -Follow

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 07, 2025

Question by Sreelekshmi - Dec 06, 2025Hindi

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Hello, I’m a student who recently joined the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita University. I’m aiming for a strong academic foundation and a clear career path. Could you please guide me on the following: How good is this course for research careers or higher studies (IISc, IITs, abroad)? What are the placement prospects after Integrated M.Sc Physics at Amrita? Does the program help in preparing for alternate options like UPSC, CDS/AFCAT, or technical roles? What skills (coding, research projects, certifications) should I start early to make the most of this degree?

Ans: Sree, Program Overview and Academic Foundation: Congratulations on joining the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita University. This five-year integrated program represents a rigorous pathway designed to equip you with advanced theoretical and experimental physics knowledge combined with cutting-edge scientific computing skills. The curriculum uniquely integrates a minor in Scientific Computing, which adds substantial computational capability to your profile—a critical advantage in today's research and professional landscape. The program incorporates comprehensive coursework spanning classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, statistical physics, advanced laboratory work, and specialized topics in materials physics, optoelectronics, and computational methods, positioning you excellently for both research and professional careers.
Research Career Prospects: IISc, IITs, and Beyond: For research-oriented careers, the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita provides an exceptional foundation. Amrita's curriculum specifically aligns with GATE and UGC-NET examination syllabi, and the institution emphasizes early research engagement. The faculty at Amrita actively publish research in Scopus-indexed journals, with over 60 publications in international venues within the past five years, exposing you to active research environments.
To pursue research at premier institutions like IISc, you would typically follow the PhD pathway. IISc accepts M.Sc graduates through their Integrated PhD programs, and with your Amrita M.Sc, you're eligible to apply. You'll need to qualify the relevant entrance examinations, and your integrated program's emphasis on research fundamentals provides strong preparation. The final year of your Integrated M.Sc is intentionally structured to be nearly free of classroom commitments, enabling engagement with research projects at institutes like IISc, IITs, and National Labs. According to Amrita's data, over 80% of M.Sc Physics students secured internship offers from reputed institutions during academic year 2019-20, directly facilitating research career transitions.
Placement and Direct Employment Opportunities: Amrita University boasts a comprehensive placement ecosystem with strong corporate and government sector connections. According to NIRF placement data for the Amrita Integrated M.Sc program (5-year), the median salary in 2023-24 stood at ?7.2 LPA with approximately 57% placement rate. However, these figures reflect general placement trends; physics graduates often secure higher packages in specialized technical roles. Many graduates join software companies like Infosys (with early offers), Google, and PayPal, where their strong analytical and computational skills command competitive compensation packages ranging from ?8-15 LPA for entry-level positions.
The Department of Corporate and Industrial Relations at Amrita provides intensive three-semester life skills training covering linguistic competence, data interpretation, group discussions, and interview techniques. This structured placement support significantly enhances your employability in both government and private sectors.
Government Sector Opportunities: UPSC, BARC, DRDO, and ISRO: Your M.Sc Physics degree opens multiple avenues for prestigious government employment. UPSC Geophysicist examinations explicitly list M.Sc Physics or Applied Physics as qualifying degrees, enabling you to compete for Group A positions in the Geological Survey of India and Central Ground Water Board. The age limit for geophysicist positions is 32 years (with relaxation for reserved categories), and the exam comprises preliminary, main, and interview stages.
BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre) actively recruits M.Sc Physics graduates as Scientific Officers and Research Fellows. Recruitment occurs through the BARC Online Test or GATE scores, with positions in nuclear science, radiation protection, and atomic research. BARC Summer Internship programs are available, offering ?5,000-?10,000 monthly stipends with opportunity for future scientist recruitment.
DRDO (Defense Research and Development Organization) recruits M.Sc Physics graduates through CEPTAM examinations or GATE scores for roles involving defense technology, weapon systems, and laser physics research. ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) regularly advertises scientist/engineer positions through competitive recruitment for candidates with strong physics backgrounds, offering opportunities in satellite technology and space science applications.
Other significant employers include the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recruiting as scientific officers, and NPCIL (Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited), offering stable government service with competitive compensation packages exceeding ?8-12 LPA for scientists.
Alternate Career Pathways: UPSC, CDS, and AFCAT: UPSC Civil Services (IFS - Indian Forest Service): M.Sc Physics graduates qualify for UPSC Civil Services examinations, with the forest service offering opportunities for science-based administrative roles with potential to reach senior government positions.
CDS/AFCAT (Armed Forces): While AFCAT meteorology branches specifically require "B.Sc with Maths & Physics with 60% minimum marks," the technical branches (Aeronautical Engineering and Ground Duty Technical roles) require graduation/integrated postgraduation in Engineering/Technology. An M.Sc Physics integrates well with technical qualifications, though you would need engineering background for direct officer entry. However, you remain eligible for specialized technical interviews if applying through alternate defence channels.
UGC-NET Examination: This pathway leads to Assistant Professor positions in central universities and colleges across India. NET-qualified candidates receive scholarships of ?31,000/month for 2-year JRF positions with PhD pursuit, transitioning to Assistant Professor salaries of ?41,000/month in government institutions. This route provides long-term academic career security with research opportunities.
Private Sector Technical Roles
M.Sc Physics graduates are increasingly valued in data science, software engineering, and technical consulting. Companies actively recruit physics graduates for software development, where strong problem-solving and logical reasoning translate to competitive packages of ?10-20 LPA. Specialized domains including quantum computing development, financial modeling, and scientific computing offer premium compensation. Your minor in Scientific Computing makes you particularly attractive to technology companies requiring computational expertise.
International Opportunities and Higher Studies Abroad
An M.Sc from Amrita facilitates admission to PhD programs at international institutions. German universities offer tuition-free or low-fee MSc Physics programs (2 years) with scholarships like DAAD providing €850+ monthly stipends. US universities accept M.Sc graduates directly for PhD positions with full funding (tuition coverage + stipend). These pathways require GRE scores and strong Statement of Purpose articulating research interests. Research collaboration opportunities exist with Max Planck Institute (Germany) and CalTech Summer Research Program (USA), both welcoming Indian M.Sc students.
Essential Skills and Certifications to Develop Immediately: Programming Languages: Start learning Python immediately—it's universally used in research and industry. Dedicate 2-3 hours weekly to data analysis, scientific computing libraries (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas), and machine learning fundamentals. MATLAB is equally critical for physics applications, particularly numerical simulations and data visualization. Aim to complete MATLAB certification courses within your first year.
Research Tools: Learn Git/version control, LaTeX for scientific documentation, and data analysis frameworks. These skills are indispensable for publishing research papers and collaborating on projects.
Certifications Worth Pursuing: (1) MATLAB Certification (DIYguru or MathWorks official courses) (2) Python for Data Science (complete certificate programs from platforms like Coursera) (3) Machine Learning Fundamentals (for expanding technical versatility) & (4) Scientific Communication and Technical Writing (develop through departmental workshops)
Strategic Internship Planning: Leverage Amrita's research connections systematically. In your third year, apply to BARC Summer Internship, IISER Internships, TIFR Summer Fellowships, and IIT Internship programs (like IIT Kanpur SURGE). These expose you to frontier research while establishing connections for future PhD or scientist recruitment. Target 2-3 research internships across different specializations to develop versatility.

TO SUM UP, Your Integrated M.Sc Physics degree from Amrita positions you exceptionally well for competitive research careers at IISc/IITs, prestigious government scientist roles at BARC/DRDO/ISRO, and international PhD opportunities. The program's scientific computing emphasis differentiates you in the job market. Immediate priorities: (1) Master Python and MATLAB within the first two years; (2) Engage in research projects starting year 2-3; (3) Target internships at premiere research institutions; (4) Prepare GATE while completing your degree for maximum flexibility in recruitment; (5) Consider UGC-NET for long-term academic stability. Your career trajectory will ultimately depend on developing strong research fundamentals, demonstrating consistent excellence in specialization areas, and strategically selecting internship and research opportunities. The rigorous Amrita program combined with disciplined skill development positions you for exceptional career success across multiple sectors. Choose the most suitable option for you out of the various options available mentioned above. All the BEST for Your Prosperous Future!

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Maine jee mains session ka form ews apply wale se bhara tha lekin ews nh ban paya aur ab form date bhi khatam ho chuka h aur correction window band ho gya h to kya maine ji form pehle ews wala bhara tha wo form rahega ya rad ho jayega

Ans: Krishu, Your form remains valid for exam participation. NTA doesn't reject forms during registration without certificates. However, during counseling document verification, a missing EWS certificate will automatically shift you to the General category. You cannot change your category now since the correction window closed. Contact NTA immediately for guidance on possible relief measures by mail or by contacting them over phone. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Question by ANSHU - Dec 06, 2025Hindi

Career

I am a neet aspirant Sir meri class 12 m physics m repeat thi aur chemistry bio aur English m pass hu toh mene nios k through physics k exam dia m usmin pass hu toh mere pass 2 marksheet hogyin h toh sir neet counselling m koi problem toh nhi aaegi

Ans: As per my knowledge, you will not face any problem in NEET counselling. Passing Physics through NIOS is valid. Just carry both mark sheets for verification. Yet, it is highly recommended to have a single marksheet for PCB to avoid any complications. You did not anything about when you cleared the 12th grade and NIOS examination. It is also not clear that when you are appearing to NEET. Whether you are are fresher or repeater is also not clear. Recommending asking the question in English with clarity to answer it correctly.

Good luck.
Follow me if you receive this reply.
Radheshyam

Asked on - Dec 06, 2025 | Answered on Dec 07, 2025

Sir I completed my 12 in 2024 and I gave my nios exam in oct 2024 in nios marksheet I am passed in physics and sir I am a droper student

Ans: OK. Appear for NEET 2026 and aim to score higher first, and forget what has happened in the past. Think about the verification process after the examination is over; until then, remain cool, calm, and quiet, and focus only on NEET. Best of luck for your bright future ahead.

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hi sir, wish to know the careeer option for my daughter after 12th PCB, apart from NEET what are the other ExamsPCB stream , she can appear. please guide .

Ans: Hi Swamesh,
Please wait a few more days; changes have occurred in the education sector, particularly regarding NEET. Several courses have been added, and you need to obtain eligibility through NEET to pursue them. I will share the details within a few days.
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Tax Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 04, 2025Hindi

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Tax returns ka confirmation nahi aya it department se

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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi

Money

Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000

Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

Radheshyam Zanwar |6736 Answers |Ask -Follow

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 04, 2025Hindi

Career

Hello sir, i am a NEET aspirant and in 11th........but these past months i have left one coaching to join other but have not been able to accomodate so now i will be starting fresh and doing self study.....i want to go to afmc....pls guide me regarding everything....pls pls really urgent, would appreciate it.

Ans: Starting afresh in 11th class is completely fine, but initially focus on strong NCERT fundamentals for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology through daily self-study, consistent revision, and weekly mock tests. Aim for the NEET cutoff plus medical fitness standards for AFMC, build physical fitness alongside academics, and maintain discipline with a clear daily routine to stay on track. Usually, switching between coaching institutes is not recommended, but if there are serious issues with teachers, it's understandable to make a change. However, success does not solely depend on the coaching institute; dedicated studying is essential. Self-study with passion, consistency, completing the syllabus on time, extensive revision, and practising past papers are crucial for cracking the exam. If you have that strong desire, you can attempt NEET; otherwise, choose your path without hesitation. NEET is not the ultimate measure of success in life.

Good luck.
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Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar |6736 Answers |Ask -Follow

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Question by Shriyansh - Dec 04, 2025Hindi

Career

I am aiming pec chd cse data science which on josaa shows to open at 16000 and closed at 19000 ews rank. How hard is to achieve this rank. Is it possible with boards prep? Do consider these are ews category ranks not crl rank , so any guess about crl and overall percentile?

Ans: Getting an EWS rank of 16k–19k is moderately tough and usually needs 90–93 percentile (90k–110k CRL), which is very difficult with only boards preparation and typically requires focused JEE-level practice. One should have a burning desire, dedicated motivation, and a target to achieve the goal. Without these parameters, not possible to achieve success in JEE. Hence, around 95% studentsare are unable to achieve the target of cracking the examination. From your question, it is not clear that where you are aiming for 2026 or 2027 examination.

Good luck.
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Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar |6736 Answers |Ask -Follow

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Question by Amit - Dec 05, 2025Hindi

Career

My son while filling the application form for JEE Mains2026 , has inadvertently added the prefixes Mr. and Mrs. before his parents’ names. However, in both the Aadhaar card and the Matriculation certificate, the names of his parents appear without any prefixes. He missed to do the correction in the correction window timeline. Will he be allowed to sit in the exam and any challenge during JOSSA counselling, if yes, what is remedial action for this.?

Ans: Please do not worry. He will be allowed to appear for JEE Mains and will be allowed to participate in JoSAA counselling. Just submit an affidavit/self-declaration with Aadhaar and matric certificates during document verification to clarify the prefix discrepancy. Yet, recommended to fill the application form very carefully by taking the help of an expert. If NTA opens the correction windows once again, then try for the same. Keep a close eye on the NTA JEE site.

Good luck.
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Radheshyam

Dr Dipankar Dutta |1837 Answers |Ask -Follow

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Question by Murari - Dec 05, 2025Hindi

Career

Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.

Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

See more questions »

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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