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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 24, 2024

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 - Apr 24, 2024Hindi
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Hi i am 27 and considering i want a passive monthly income of 50k with the help of SWP starting at the age of 35 what aspects i need to consider to reach this goal how much should be my investment and in what field. I am new to this thanks.

Ans: Embarking on the journey towards a passive monthly income at a young age is a commendable goal. To achieve a monthly income of 50k through SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) starting at 35, several aspects need consideration:

Target Amount: Determine the corpus you'd need by 35 to generate 50k monthly. Considering a safe withdrawal rate of 4-5% annually, you'd need a substantial corpus.
Investment Horizon: You have 8 years to accumulate this corpus. Longer horizons allow for more aggressive growth-oriented investments initially, with a shift towards more stable assets as you approach the withdrawal phase.
Asset Allocation: Diversify across asset classes like equities, debt, and possibly real estate or alternative investments to balance risk and returns.
Risk Tolerance: Understand and assess your risk tolerance. Younger investors can typically afford to take on more risk due to their longer investment horizon.
Inflation: Factor in inflation while calculating your future income needs. What buys 50k today might cost more in the future.
Tax Implications: SWP withdrawals might have tax implications. Optimize your investments to minimize tax outflows.
Regular Review: Periodically review and adjust your portfolio to stay on track towards your goal.
Given your age and time horizon, a combination of equity mutual funds, debt funds, and maybe some real estate exposure could be considered. However, I'd strongly recommend consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to tailor a plan that aligns with your goals, risk tolerance, and financial situation. Remember, early planning and disciplined investing are your best allies in achieving financial freedom.
Asked on - Apr 25, 2024 | Answered on Apr 25, 2024
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Thankyou, i will surely consider your guidance.
Ans: Welcome :)
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 Apr 17, 2024

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Assuming 12% return annually on lumpsum investment of 25 lakhs, I want to start SWP on 26000 monthly for 30 years. What would be the best funds to go for and what other factors do I need to consider while making the final decision ?
Ans: strategy:

Choosing Mutual Funds for SWP:

While a 12% annual return assumption can be used for initial calculations, achieving that consistently over 30 years is difficult. Here's a framework to select funds for your SWP:

Asset Allocation: Consider your age, risk tolerance, and financial goals. A balanced portfolio with equity and debt funds is recommended for SWP. For example, a 60% equity and 40% debt allocation might be suitable.

Equity Funds: Large-cap or multi-cap funds can provide a good balance of growth and stability. Look for funds with a good track record, low expense ratios, and diversification across sectors.

Debt Funds: Debt funds like short-term or income funds can provide regular income and stability to your SWP withdrawals. Consider factors like credit quality of the underlying investments and maturity of the debt instruments.

Here's a suggestive asset allocation, but consult a financial advisor for personalization:

Equity Funds (60%): Invest in 2-3 well-diversified equity funds (large-cap or multi-cap) with a proven track record.
Debt Funds (40%): Invest in 1-2 debt funds (short-term or income) with good credit quality and suitable maturity profile to meet your monthly withdrawal needs.
Other Factors to Consider:

Investment Horizon: 30 years is a long time. Your asset allocation might need adjustments as you near retirement and your risk tolerance changes.
Inflation: A 12% return assumption might not fully outpace inflation. Consider a slightly higher return expectation to maintain purchasing power over time.
Tax Implications: Consult a tax advisor to understand the tax implications of SWPs, especially capital gains taxation on redeemed units.
Review and Rebalance: Periodically review your portfolio performance (at least annually) and rebalance if needed to maintain your desired asset allocation.
Contingency Planning: Factor in potential emergencies or fluctuations in income. Maintain an adequate contingency fund outside your SWP.
Remember: This is general information, and you should consult a qualified financial advisor for personalized investment advice tailored to your specific financial situation and risk tolerance. They can help you choose the right mutual funds, create a comprehensive SWP strategy, and consider all the relevant factors for your 30-year investment journey.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 14, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 04, 2024Hindi
Money
I have corpus of 60 lkh ( from several MF / ULIP etc) ... can you please guide me how to invest in SWP to get regular monthly income of Rs.60000/- from Jan 2025 My prsent age is 52.. Or you may suggest me what is good for me .. Please.
Ans: creating a stable and secure monthly income plan is achievable with the right investment strategy. A Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) can help ensure consistent income without eroding your capital too quickly. Here’s a comprehensive, 360-degree approach tailored to your needs.

Step 1: Establishing Clear Monthly Income Goals
Target Monthly Income:

Your goal is to achieve Rs 60,000 per month starting January 2025.
This translates to an annual requirement of Rs 7.2 lakh.
Inflation Consideration:

Since you’re only 52, consider a small annual increase to combat inflation.
Keeping up with inflation will ensure purchasing power in the long term.
Step 2: Setting Up a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
An SWP in mutual funds can provide regular monthly income while preserving the principal amount as much as possible.

Choosing the Right Funds:

Balanced Advantage Funds: These funds adjust equity and debt exposure based on market conditions, balancing returns with risk.
Hybrid Funds: They provide a blend of stability and growth by investing in both equity and debt.
Avoiding Index Funds and Direct Funds:

Index funds lack active management, which limits flexibility in volatile markets.
Direct funds lack professional guidance, which can make it difficult to meet long-term goals effectively.
Opting for regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner ensures proper management.
Tax Efficiency:

Equity mutual funds have tax benefits if held for the long term.
Under the latest tax rules, long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Short-term gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%, making long-term holding more beneficial.
Step 3: Portfolio Allocation for Monthly Income Stability
Equity Allocation:

Allocating around 40-50% to equity-oriented funds can provide long-term growth.
Equity offers potential for higher returns, which helps in beating inflation.
Debt Allocation:

The remaining 50-60% can be invested in debt mutual funds, which provide stability and predictable returns.
Debt funds will reduce risk and make monthly income more predictable.
Reinvesting Dividends:

Choose growth options within funds for better compounding.
An SWP can draw monthly amounts, making reinvestment of dividends unnecessary.
Adjusting for Market Conditions:

Your Certified Financial Planner can help adjust allocation based on market conditions.
This flexibility in allocation is especially valuable during volatile periods.
Step 4: Structured Monthly Income through SWP
Setting Up the SWP:

Begin withdrawals from January 2025 as per your need of Rs 60,000 per month.
Withdrawals can be set at a fixed date each month for consistency.
Protecting Capital:

With careful management, the SWP will sustain monthly income without depleting capital too quickly.
Regular reviews by your Certified Financial Planner will optimise your withdrawal rate to maintain capital longevity.
Step 5: Emergency Fund Allocation
Importance of Liquidity:

It’s vital to keep an emergency fund for unexpected expenses, separate from your investment corpus.
A sum equivalent to 6-12 months of expenses should be set aside in liquid funds or a high-yield savings account.
Avoiding Disruption in SWP:

By keeping an emergency fund, you avoid dipping into your SWP or investment corpus during unexpected times.
Step 6: Monitoring and Rebalancing the Portfolio
Periodic Portfolio Reviews:

Regular monitoring helps ensure the SWP is meeting your monthly income goals.
Market conditions and personal financial needs may shift over time, requiring adjustments.
Rebalancing Asset Allocation:

Rebalancing the equity and debt portions periodically helps maintain the ideal risk-return balance.
Your Certified Financial Planner can assist in rebalancing to preserve capital and income stability.
Step 7: Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Avoid High-Risk Investments:

Avoid aggressive equity investments, which could lead to losses.
Stick to a balanced portfolio that aligns with your risk tolerance.
Not Over-Estimating Withdrawal Rates:

Withdrawing too high an amount each month can deplete capital quickly.
A Certified Financial Planner can calculate a safe withdrawal rate to sustain income long term.
Avoid Direct Investments:

Direct investments lack the guidance and expertise needed for steady income.
Opt for regular funds managed by a Certified Financial Planner for a structured approach.
Step 8: Health and Life Insurance Considerations
Health Insurance Coverage:

As you approach retirement, health insurance becomes essential to cover medical expenses.
Ensure you have a comprehensive plan that meets healthcare needs without impacting your SWP.
Reviewing Life Insurance:

If you hold ULIPs or LIC investment-cum-insurance policies, consider surrendering them for better investment options.
The saved premiums can be reinvested in mutual funds to further support your SWP income.
Step 9: Future Planning Beyond SWP
Retirement Planning:

As you age, inflation will affect purchasing power. Ensure periodic reviews and adjustments to your SWP.
Discuss with your Certified Financial Planner ways to adjust income as expenses increase.
Consider Your Long-Term Needs:

Factor in potential future expenses such as medical costs or travel.
A well-planned SWP will allow flexibility for additional withdrawals if needed.
Final Insights
With a well-planned SWP, you can enjoy a steady income of Rs 60,000 per month without depleting your capital too soon. By choosing the right funds, balancing equity and debt, and consulting a Certified Financial Planner, you’ll achieve consistent income with minimal risk. Periodic reviews and adjustments will ensure your investments stay aligned with your needs, providing peace of mind in retirement.

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 Mar 07, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 07, 2025Hindi
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Hello Sir, I am a housewife in need of passive income for my own and family needs. I have 30 lakhs which I want to do SWP of 30k every month. Question. How to create my portfolio with 30 lakhs and where and how to invest so that my capital is appreciated and can withdraw my 30k for many years Thanks & Rgds,
Ans: You want to generate a steady Rs 30K monthly income while ensuring your capital grows. This requires a balanced investment approach. I will guide you on how to structure your Rs 30 lakh portfolio to meet both goals.

Key Considerations Before Investing
Sustainability: You need withdrawals to last at least 20-30 years without depleting the capital.
Capital Appreciation: Your money should grow to counter inflation.
Tax Efficiency: Choosing the right funds can reduce tax on withdrawals.
Market Risks: A balance of equity and debt ensures stable and growing income.
A Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) is a good choice. It allows you to withdraw Rs 30K per month while letting the remaining amount grow.

Ideal Portfolio Structure for Rs 30 Lakhs
A mix of equity and debt funds is required. This ensures stability while capturing growth.

Recommended Allocation:

50% (Rs 15L) in Equity Hybrid Funds – For growth and inflation protection
40% (Rs 12L) in Debt Funds – For stability and steady income
10% (Rs 3L) in Liquid Funds – For immediate liquidity and emergency needs
Step-by-Step Investment Plan
1. Equity Hybrid Funds (Rs 15L)
These funds invest in both equity and debt, giving you balanced growth.
Why? They provide better returns than pure debt funds while reducing volatility.
SWP From Here: You can withdraw from hybrid funds for higher tax efficiency.
2. Debt Funds (Rs 12L)
Invest in corporate bond funds and dynamic bond funds.
These offer better stability and returns compared to fixed deposits.
Helps in reducing market risk while still earning higher returns than traditional savings.
3. Liquid Funds (Rs 3L)
This acts as your emergency buffer.
It ensures you don’t withdraw from equity during market downturns.
Helps maintain consistent income even in volatile times.
How SWP Will Work
Start SWP from Equity Hybrid Funds. This ensures capital growth while giving you tax efficiency.
In case of market downturns, withdraw from Debt Funds instead. This protects your equity from unnecessary withdrawals during bad phases.
Rebalance every 2-3 years to maintain stability.
Your Rs 30 lakh corpus can comfortably provide Rs 30K per month for 20-30 years if structured correctly.

Final Insights
SWP from hybrid funds ensures both income and appreciation.
A mix of equity, debt, and liquid funds provides stability.
Your corpus will grow and last for decades if rebalanced periodically.
Tax-efficient withdrawal ensures more money stays in your hands.
With this approach, you get consistent income without worrying about capital depletion.

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 Apr 01, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 31, 2025Hindi
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I am having around 20 lakhs needs monthly income by investing in swp how to go ahead I am turning 60 next month.
Ans: You have Rs. 20 lakhs and want a steady monthly income using Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP). Since you are turning 60 next month, your investment must be structured for stability, tax efficiency, and longevity. Let’s analyze how to plan your SWP effectively.

Key Factors to Consider Before SWP
1. Expected Monthly Income and Longevity of Funds
SWP provides a fixed monthly withdrawal from mutual funds while allowing the rest to remain invested.

If the withdrawal rate is too high, the capital may deplete quickly. If it is too low, it may not meet your expenses.

You must balance growth, stability, and withdrawal rate to ensure the corpus lasts at least 20+ years.

2. Choosing the Right Type of Funds
Equity funds have higher growth potential but also come with market volatility.

Debt funds offer stability but have lower returns.

A hybrid approach (mix of equity and debt) can provide both growth and stability.

Funds with lower volatility and tax efficiency should be preferred.

3. Taxation on SWP Withdrawals
Equity-oriented mutual funds: Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.

Debt-oriented mutual funds: Taxed as per your income slab.

Step-by-Step Approach for SWP
Step 1: Allocate Funds Wisely
40% in Hybrid Funds: To balance growth and stability.

40% in Conservative Debt Funds: For low risk and steady income.

20% in Equity Funds: For long-term capital appreciation.

This mix ensures stability while keeping growth potential intact.

Step 2: Determine Withdrawal Rate
If you withdraw Rs. 10,000 per month, the corpus may last 25+ years with market-linked growth.

If you withdraw Rs. 15,000 per month, it may last 15-18 years.

A higher withdrawal rate shortens longevity of funds.

Step 3: Select the Right SWP Strategy
Withdraw from debt funds initially to allow equity funds to grow.

Keep one year’s expenses (Rs. 2-3 lakhs) in a liquid fund for emergency use.

Review SWP every year to adjust based on market performance and expenses.

Alternative Options for Steady Income
1. Dividend Payout from Mutual Funds
Some mutual funds offer regular dividends, but they are not guaranteed.

SWP is better than dividends as it provides controlled withdrawals.

2. Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS) and Monthly Income Schemes
SCSS offers 8-8.5% interest but has a 5-year lock-in.

Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS) gives fixed monthly income but lower returns.

These are safe but less flexible than SWP.

Final Insights
To get steady income, invest in a mix of hybrid, debt, and equity funds. Start SWP from debt funds first, then shift to equity and hybrid funds later. Withdraw at a sustainable rate to ensure funds last for 20+ years. Keep an emergency fund for safety. Avoid fixed-income schemes that limit flexibility. Review SWP yearly and adjust based on expenses.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10854 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 14, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Career
Hello, I am currently in Class 12 and preparing for JEE. I have not yet completed even 50% of the syllabus properly, but I aim to score around '110' marks. Could you suggest an effective strategy to achieve this? I know the target is relatively low, but I have category reservation, so it should be sufficient.
Ans: With category reservation (SC/ST/OBC), a score of 110 marks is absolutely achievable and realistic. Based on 2025 data, SC candidates qualified with approximately 60-65 percentile, and ST candidates with 45-55 percentile. Your target requires scoring just 37-40% marks, which is significantly lower than general category standards. This gives you a genuine advantage. Immediate Action Plan (December 2025 - January 2026): 4-5 Weeks. Week 1-2: High-Weightage Chapter Focus. Stop trying to complete the entire syllabus. Instead, focus exclusively on high-scoring chapters that carry maximum weightage: Physics (Modern Physics, Current Electricity, Work-Power-Energy, Rotation, Magnetism), Chemistry (Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Coordination Compounds, Electrochemistry), and Maths (Integration, Differentiation, Vectors, 3D Geometry, Probability). These chapters alone can yield 80-100+ marks if practiced properly. Ignore topics you haven't studied yet. Week 2-3: Previous Year Questions (PYQs). Solve JEE Main PYQs from the last 10 years (2015-2025) for chapters you're studying. PYQs reveal question patterns and difficulty levels. Focus on understanding why answers are correct, not memorizing solutions. Week 3-4: Mock Tests & Error Analysis. Take 2-3 full-length mock tests weekly under timed conditions. This is crucial because mock tests build exam confidence, reveal time management weaknesses, and error analysis prevents repeated mistakes. Maintain an error notebook documenting every mistake—this becomes your revision guide. Week 4-5: Revision & Formula Consolidation. Create concise formula sheets for each subject. Spend 30 minutes daily reviewing formulas and key concepts. Avoid learning new topics entirely at this stage. Study Schedule (Daily): 7-8 Hours. Morning (5:00-7:30 AM): Physics concepts + 30 PYQs. Break (7:30-8:30 AM): Breakfast & rest. Mid-morning (8:30-11:00): Chemistry concepts + 20 PYQs. Lunch (11:00-1:00 PM): Full break. Afternoon (1:00-3:30 PM): Maths concepts + 30 PYQs. Evening (3:30-5:00 PM): Mock test or error review. Night (7:00-9:00 PM): Formula revision & weak area focus. Strategic Approach for 110 Marks: Attempt only confident questions and avoid negative marking by skipping difficult questions. Do easy questions first—in the exam, attempt all basic-level questions before attempting medium or hard ones. Focus on quality over quantity as 30 well-practiced questions beat 100 random questions. Master NCERT concepts as most JEE questions test NCERT concepts applied smartly. April 2026 Session Advantage. If January doesn't deliver desired results, April gives you a second chance with 3+ months to prepare. Use January as a practice attempt to identify weak areas, then focus intensively on those in February-March. Realistic Timeline: January 2026 target is 95-110 marks (achievable with focused 50% syllabus), while April 2026 target is 120-130 marks (with complete syllabus + experience). Your reservation benefit means you need only approximately 90-105 marks to qualify and secure admission to quality engineering colleges. Stop comparing yourself to general category cutoffs. Most Importantly: Consistency beats perfection. Study 6 focused hours daily rather than 12 distracted hours. Your 110-mark target is realistic—execute this plan with discipline. All the BEST for Your JEE 2026!

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Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1841 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
Career
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

...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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