Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9865 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 14, 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 - Jul 14, 2024Hindi
Money

I am 37 years old and a govt servant.i just recently started sip in four funds 1.Mirae asset large and midcap fund direct growth. _1k 2.quant large and mid cap fund direct growth_1k 3.kotak equity opportunities fund direct growth_1k 4.icici prudential retirement fund pure equity plan direct growth -5k Is it good for a term like 10 years?and if i want to invest 5k more then where should i invest for a term of 15 to 20 years.please advice .thank you

Ans: As a government servant at 37, planning for the future is crucial. Starting SIPs in mutual funds is a wise step, but evaluating and refining your strategy can optimize your returns. This analysis will guide you through your current investments and suggest additional avenues for a long-term horizon.

Current SIP Analysis

You've begun SIPs in four mutual funds with a 10-year perspective:

Mirae Asset Large and Midcap Fund
Quant Large and Midcap Fund
Kotak Equity Opportunities Fund
ICICI Prudential Retirement Fund Pure Equity Plan
Your current allocation in these funds is commendable. Let's evaluate the benefits and potential improvements.

1. Mirae Asset Large and Midcap Fund

This fund invests in both large and midcap stocks. It offers growth potential from midcaps and stability from large caps. This balanced approach can yield good returns over the long term.

2. Quant Large and Midcap Fund

Similar to the Mirae Asset Fund, this fund also diversifies between large and midcap stocks. Diversification is a key strategy to mitigate risk while aiming for growth.

3. Kotak Equity Opportunities Fund

This fund focuses on equity opportunities across market caps. It's known for good management and consistent performance. It adds diversity to your portfolio.

4. ICICI Prudential Retirement Fund Pure Equity Plan

This fund is designed for long-term goals like retirement. It invests primarily in equities, which can offer higher returns over an extended period.

Your portfolio currently has a good mix of large-cap stability and mid-cap growth potential. However, since you're considering a long-term investment horizon of 15-20 years, let's explore where you can invest an additional Rs 5,000 per month.

Evaluating Direct Funds vs Regular Funds

You've invested in direct plans, which typically have lower expense ratios. However, regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) have their advantages. A CFP provides personalized advice, timely reviews, and adjustments to your portfolio. These services can potentially enhance your investment performance, justifying the slightly higher expense ratios.

Long-term Investment Strategy

For a long-term investment horizon of 15-20 years, consider the following factors:

Diversification: Spread investments across different asset classes and sectors.
Risk Tolerance: Understand your risk appetite and invest accordingly.
Consistent Review: Regularly review and adjust your portfolio based on market conditions and personal goals.
Recommended Investment Avenues

To invest an additional Rs 5,000 per month, here are some funds and strategies to consider:

1. Flexi Cap Funds

Flexi cap funds invest in stocks across market capitalizations. They offer flexibility to shift investments between large, mid, and small caps based on market conditions. This dynamic allocation can capture opportunities across the spectrum and provide robust returns over the long term.

2. Mid Cap Funds

Mid cap funds focus on medium-sized companies with high growth potential. These companies often grow faster than large caps and can offer higher returns. However, they come with higher risk, suitable for a long-term horizon.

3. Sectoral or Thematic Funds

These funds invest in specific sectors like technology, healthcare, or financial services. Investing in a growing sector can yield substantial returns. However, they are riskier and require careful selection and timing. For example, the healthcare sector in India is poised for significant growth due to increasing health awareness and spending.

4. International Funds

Investing in international funds provides exposure to global markets. This diversification can reduce risk associated with the Indian market. It also allows you to capitalize on the growth of developed economies and emerging markets. For instance, a fund investing in US technology stocks can offer high growth potential.

5. Balanced or Hybrid Funds

Balanced funds invest in both equity and debt instruments. They provide growth potential with equity and stability with debt. This mix can be suitable for moderate risk tolerance and long-term investment. These funds can provide a cushion during market volatility, ensuring smoother returns.

6. Multi-Asset Funds

Multi-asset funds diversify across various asset classes, including equity, debt, and gold. This diversification reduces risk and can provide steady returns. Investing in multiple assets helps in balancing the portfolio against market fluctuations.

The Benefits of Actively Managed Funds

While index funds passively track market indices, actively managed funds have fund managers making strategic decisions. Actively managed funds aim to outperform the market, providing higher returns. They adjust portfolios based on market trends, economic conditions, and company performance. This active management justifies the slightly higher expense ratios, as it can potentially lead to better returns than passive funds.

Implementing the Strategy

Based on the analysis, here's a suggested allocation for your additional Rs 5,000 investment:

Flexi Cap Fund: Rs 1,500
Mid Cap Fund: Rs 1,000
Sectoral/Thematic Fund: Rs 1,000
International Fund: Rs 1,000
Multi-Asset Fund: Rs 500
This allocation provides a balanced mix of growth potential and risk mitigation.

Regular Review and Adjustment

Investing is not a one-time activity. Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your goals. A Certified Financial Planner can assist in this process, providing insights and adjustments based on market trends and your evolving financial situation.

Final Insights

Investing for the long term requires a strategic approach. Your current SIPs are a good start, and with the additional Rs 5,000 investment, you can further strengthen your portfolio. Diversification across different asset classes and sectors is key to maximizing returns and minimizing risk.

Consider the benefits of regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner. While they have higher expense ratios, the personalized advice and active management can enhance your investment performance.

Focus on a balanced mix of flexi cap, mid cap, sectoral/thematic, international, and multi-asset funds. This diversified approach can capture growth opportunities across markets and sectors, ensuring a robust and resilient portfolio.

Regularly review your investments, adjust based on performance and market conditions, and stay committed to your long-term goals. With careful planning and strategic investments, you can build a substantial corpus for your future needs.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9865 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - May 08, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi Team, I am 35 and have below SIPs. Please review them and let me know if i have to make any changes. Parag Pareikg flexi cap fund - 10000 Motilal Oswal S&P 500 index fund - 2500 Quant Small Cap Fund- 5000 PGIM India Mid Cap Opportunities Fund- 5000 SBI Banking & Financial Services Fund- 2500. Focus is to continue SIP for longterm
Ans: It's great to see your commitment to investing for the long term. Let's review your current SIP portfolio and discuss if any adjustments are needed to align with your goals.

Evaluating Your SIPs
Your portfolio consists of a mix of equity funds focusing on different market segments. Here's a brief overview of each fund:

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund (Rs. 10,000): Known for its flexible investment approach across market caps and sectors, providing diversification and potential for long-term growth.

Motilal Oswal S&P 500 Index Fund (Rs. 2,500): Provides exposure to the top 500 companies in the US stock market, offering diversification and growth potential in the world's largest economy.

Quant Small Cap Fund (Rs. 5,000): Invests in small-cap companies with high growth potential, suitable for investors with a higher risk tolerance and longer investment horizon.

PGIM India Mid Cap Opportunities Fund (Rs. 5,000): Focuses on mid-cap companies with strong growth prospects, offering potential for capital appreciation over the long term.

SBI Banking & Financial Services Fund (Rs. 2,500): Invests in companies operating in the banking and financial services sector, benefiting from the growth potential of the Indian financial industry.

Recommendations for Optimization
Your portfolio is well-diversified across different market segments, which is essential for long-term growth. However, here are a few suggestions to consider for further optimization:

Monitor Performance: Regularly review the performance of each fund and assess whether they continue to meet your investment objectives. Consider replacing underperforming funds or reallocating assets based on changing market conditions and your financial goals.

Assess Risk Tolerance: Ensure that your portfolio's risk level aligns with your risk tolerance and investment horizon. While small-cap and mid-cap funds offer higher growth potential, they also come with increased volatility. Make sure you're comfortable with the level of risk in your portfolio.

Consider International Diversification: While the Motilal Oswal S&P 500 Index Fund provides exposure to the US stock market, you may consider adding more international diversification to your portfolio. Explore options such as global equity funds or international index funds to broaden your investment horizon.

Review Sectoral Exposure: Given your investment in the SBI Banking & Financial Services Fund, be mindful of overexposure to a single sector. Monitor the fund's performance and consider diversifying across sectors to reduce concentration risk.

Conclusion
Overall, your SIP portfolio is well-structured and positioned for long-term growth. By regularly reviewing and optimizing your investments, you can maximize returns and achieve your financial goals with confidence.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9865 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
sir, am 26 year old and have some SIPs for Rs 1000 each. 1. QUANT SMALL CAP FUND DIRECT 2. NIPPON INDIA LARGE CAP DIRECT 3. MIRAE ASSEST ELSS TAX SAVER 4. UTI NIFTY 50 5. PARAG PARIKH FLEXI CAP 6. TATA MIDCAP GROWTH DIRECT 7. TATA SMALL CAP DIRECT my question is, these are good SIPs for next 10-15 years ? second is i want to invest 10000 more per month, please let me know which SIPs will be good for next 15 years. Thanks
Ans: At age 26, it is appreciable that you have started investing early.

It shows responsibility towards your future financial goals.

Your current SIPs are diversified across multiple categories.

But some of these SIPs may not be aligned well for long-term consistency.

Let us now review each one professionally.

1. Quant Small Cap Fund - Direct

Small caps can be volatile.

This fund is aggressive and high-risk.

Direct plans have no guidance or monitoring.

This may affect long-term performance.

Switching to a regular plan with a Certified Financial Planner is better.

This will ensure proper guidance and rebalancing.

2. Nippon India Large Cap - Direct

Large caps offer stability in a portfolio.

However, this fund’s long-term consistency is not very strong.

Also, direct plans lack expert monitoring.

A regular plan through a CFP ensures better handholding.

Tracking and performance review becomes easier.

3. Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver

This fund is decent for tax saving.

It is diversified and has shown fair returns.

However, regular review is still needed.

A regular plan helps with documentation and timely alerts.

Switching to regular mode can be beneficial in the long run.

4. UTI Nifty 50 - Direct

This is an index fund.

Index funds only mirror the market.

They do not aim to beat the market.

They lack human intelligence and flexibility.

They don’t perform well during corrections or sideways markets.

Actively managed funds have higher potential.

They can outperform in changing market situations.

Consider replacing this with a well-managed large cap fund.

In regular plan through CFP, you get guided fund selection.

5. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap

Flexi cap funds provide flexibility across market segments.

This fund has been popular recently.

But it has higher exposure to international stocks.

This brings currency risk and regulatory risks.

Also, it may overlap with other holdings.

You should regularly monitor for overlap and concentration.

Again, direct mode has no professional review.

6. Tata Midcap Growth - Direct

Midcaps are good for long-term.

But they need close tracking due to higher volatility.

A regular plan with expert guidance is ideal.

Direct mode will not help during market correction periods.

Switching to regular mode will ensure ongoing support.

7. Tata Small Cap - Direct

Small caps are risky in short to medium term.

This should not be your core holding.

Should be allocated only with close guidance.

Again, direct plans can go off-track without support.

If unmanaged, can bring portfolio imbalance.

Assessment of Direct Funds: Key Concerns

Direct funds may look cheaper in expense.

But they lack professional support and review.

There is no monitoring of changes in fund quality.

You may miss timely exits and rebalancing.

A Certified Financial Planner guides with logic and analysis.

They also help align your funds with your goals.

Regular plans have MFD support and rebalancing discipline.

They protect from behavioural mistakes during market volatility.

Overall, regular funds with expert guidance bring higher net value.

What Can Be Done with Your Existing SIPs?

You can consider the following changes:

Discontinue index fund (UTI Nifty 50) SIP.

   

Reduce exposure to direct small and midcap funds.

   

Switch from direct plans to regular plans via a Certified Financial Planner.

   

Ensure SIPs are part of a professionally constructed portfolio.

   

Ensure proper asset allocation, fund category balancing and tax efficiency.

   

New SIP of Rs 10,000 per Month – Suggestions

For your new Rs 10,000 monthly SIP, here is a 360-degree plan:

Allocate across diversified categories.

   

Ensure each fund has low overlap and different market focus.

   

Invest in 3 to 4 funds max.

   

All in regular mode with CFP-led support.

   

Avoid index funds, as they only match market returns.

   

Go for actively managed funds with proven history.

   

Include large-cap, mid-cap and flexi-cap mix.

   

Monitor quarterly with your Certified Financial Planner.

   

Additional Guidance for 15-Year Wealth Building

At 26, your time horizon is excellent.

But long-term wealth creation needs more than just SIPs.

It needs strategy and discipline.

Below are key steps for a full-circle approach:

Set clear financial goals: Home, car, retirement, child education etc.

   

Link SIPs to each goal separately.

   

Keep emergency fund in place (6 months expenses).

   

Get sufficient life and health insurance (pure protection plans).

   

Avoid investment-cum-insurance products.

   

They give low returns and poor insurance.

   

Do not mix insurance with investment.

   

Track your SIP performance annually.

   

Rebalance if some funds underperform.

   

Maintain asset allocation: Equity, Debt and Liquid.

   

Avoid emotional reactions during market dips.

   

Stay invested with guidance from your CFP.

   

Be aware of taxation rules on equity and debt funds.

   

LTCG on equity above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

   

STCG on equity is taxed at 20%.

   

Debt fund gains are taxed as per income slab.

   

Regular plan MFD and CFP helps with all tax planning.

   

What Not to Do in the Next 15 Years

Don’t invest in index funds.

   

They lack active strategy.

   

Don’t choose funds by past returns only.

   

Don’t use direct funds without financial expertise.

   

Don’t invest in real estate for returns.

   

Don’t invest in annuity products for retirement.

   

Don’t mix investment and insurance.

   

Don’t make decisions based on short-term news or noise.

   

Don’t stop SIPs during market corrections.

   

Role of a Certified Financial Planner

A Certified Financial Planner helps you:

Set goals based on life stages.

   

Create custom SIP and lump sum plans.

   

Select the best active funds for your goals.

   

Rebalance annually to stay on track.

   

Plan taxes as per latest rules.

   

Protect wealth with right insurances.

   

Build retirement with strategic planning.

   

Create a total financial blueprint for life.

   

Keep emotions out of financial decisions.

   

Final Insights

You have taken a great step by starting early.

But choosing the right funds is key.

More important is monitoring them regularly.

Direct plans lack this important support.

Switching to regular plans under CFP brings value.

Also, add Rs 10,000 new SIP with proper strategy.

Don’t follow trends.

Stay committed and review annually.

Avoid overlapping funds and unnecessary risks.

Have a complete financial roadmap in place.

You are building your future.

Make each rupee work with expert guidance.

This 360-degree approach will lead to better outcomes.

You will be financially secure and confident.

Take the next steps with clarity and care.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Career
SO dear sir continuing the same question "Differnce between CE and CSE" which should i choose CE at Shri Vishwakarma Skill University or CSE At IKGPTU MOHALI
Ans: Ansh, Based on the following insights/information, your interests & long-term goals, choose the more suitable option for you: Computer Engineering at Shri Vishwakarma Skill University (SVSU), Haryana, is designed with an industry-integrated curriculum emphasizing practical, skill-based learning, offering hands-on experience in AI, data science, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. SVSU follows a dual-education model inspired by the German system, where students actively engage with industry partners through on-the-job training and real-world projects, enhancing employability. The university boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure and expert faculty, but being a newer state university, its placement outcomes are growing, with placement rates reported up to 81% and median salaries between ?1.9–2.2L in recent years, predominantly in regional and emerging IT sectors. IKGPTU Mohali, meanwhile, provides a traditional B.Tech CSE program with dedicated specializations and larger intakes, supported by well-qualified faculty, ICT-enabled classrooms, and strong academic-industry linkages in Punjab’s prominent IT hub. Placement records at IKGPTU Mohali indicate 44% placement for B.Tech 2023 graduates and a median package of ?5L, with recruiters like TCS, Infosys, and HDFC Bank regularly conducting drives. The Mohali campus is centrally located with robust infrastructure, reputed alumni, and career support through joint campus placement drives and specialized training programs.

CSE at IKGPTU Mohali is the preferred option for its higher placement rate, better industry connectivity, advanced infrastructure, and stronger reputation within the IT sector, making it a more reliable pathway to robust career opportunities in computer science compared to SVSU Computer Engineering. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 28, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir,Still Not got answer .Please answer .My JEE Main rank is 24935 .I have also chance to get dual degree in BITSAT .How is dual degree of BITSAT ?whether it is apt to join in anticipation of getting CS or EC there afterwards .I have other option to get top Branches through JEE Main Marks .Viz; BIT Mesra ,IIITs ,Lower NITs
Ans: The BITSAT dual degree program, offered mainly at BITS Pilani and Goa campuses, is a five-year integrated course that awards both an MSc and a BE degree. The unique feature is that students admitted to MSc programs can “slide” into sought-after BE branches—including CSE (Computer Science) and ECE (Electronics & Communication)—after the first year, subject to branch change rules based on cumulative CGPA. Historically, a high CGPA (typically above 8.0–8.5) in the first two semesters is required for a successful transfer into BE CSE or ECE, making it competitive but attainable for focused, hard-working students. Dual degree holders benefit from rigorous interdisciplinary training and robust placement support, with BITS Pilani consistently recording strong placement percentages for both BE and dual degree graduates in top tech firms and core sectors. The key challenge is heavy academic load, especially during the third and fourth years, balancing requirements of both degrees, and maintaining high grades to ensure preferred branch allocation. However, dualites enjoy the flexibility to specialize further, and their exposure to science and engineering enhances employability compared to many single-degree peers. In contrast, top branches at BIT Mesra, IIITs (like IIIT Hyderabad or Bangalore), and lower NITs offer well-established BTech programs with high placement rates (around 75% for CSE at BIT Mesra, many IIITs exceeding 80–90%, and most NITs/IIITs providing reliable industry linkages, alumni networks, and diverse placements). Cutoffs for core branches like CSE or ECE at these institutes usually hover around your JEE rank, so you stand a realistic chance of securing a seat. BIT Mesra and leading IIITs provide excellent campus life, updated infrastructure, research opportunities, and corporate visibility, with direct entry into CSE or allied branches.

Recommendation
In order of preference, BITS Pilani or Goa dual degree (if you are committed to keeping a high CGPA for CSE/ECE branch change) is an outstanding choice due to brand value, academic freedom, and placement support. However, if you prefer a straightforward path with less risk, top IIITs and BIT Mesra’s CSE or ECE, followed by good NITs, are excellent for quality education and career growth. Choose BITS dual degree only if confident of excelling academically early; otherwise, a direct CSE/ECE seat from your JEE Main rank is the prudent path. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Career
Sir I didn't get any seat in the comedk 1st round allotment as I needed cse courses and the east point college cse with data science cutoff was 67k this round and my rank is 69k should I wait for round 2 and please suggest me some colleges for cse courses which I will get in round 2 please help
Ans: With a COMEDK rank of 69,000, it’s normal not to secure CSE seats in the first allotment at colleges like East Point College, as their first-round cutoff for CSE with Data Science closed near 67,000. In Round 2, cutoffs for several Bengaluru engineering colleges offering CSE tend to rise, and historical trends show that ranks up to 70,000–72,000 can secure seats in reputable options due to seat withdrawals and reduced demand. The key aspects to focus on are placement performance, faculty strength, campus infrastructure, peer learning opportunity, and degree reputation. For your rank, confirmed CSE admission options in Bengaluru include: East West College of Engineering (Yelahanka), East West Institute of Technology (BEL Layout), Brindavan College of Engineering (Yelahanka), Sri Sairam College of Engineering (Anekal), Gopalan College of Engineering and Management (Whitefield), Cambridge Institute of Technology (KR Puram), Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology (RT Nagar), Vemana Institute of Technology (Koramangala), Jyothy Institute of Technology (Thathaguni), and Sri Venkateshwara College of Engineering (KIAL Road). These colleges have consistently extended their CSE cutoffs beyond 67,000 in recent years. Many of these institutes are NAAC-accredited, offer contemporary labs and digital classrooms, and are staffed with experienced faculty. Placement cells are active—ranging from regular tech recruiters to mid-sized IT firms—and campus resources support both academic growth and personality development.

For the placement records over the last three years: East West College of Engineering and East West Institute of Technology maintain CSE placement rates of 70–80% with regular visits from Infosys, Tech Mahindra, and Accenture. Brindavan College of Engineering and Sri Sairam College have recorded similar trends, achieving nearly 75% placement for eligible CSE students with core IT and startup offers. Gopalan and Cambridge Institutes average 65–78% placements, reporting improving statistics each year, especially as Bangalore’s tech sector draws more hiring for software, testing, and data roles. Vemana, Jyothy, and Sri Venkateshwara regularly reach 60–75% success for CSE, with alumni placed in both IT services and product companies. Rajiv Gandhi Institute and Sri Venkateshwara have industry collaborations for internships and hackathons, often supporting projects that attract on-campus job offers. Across these colleges, CSE batches benefit from curricular exposure to Python, Java, basic ML, and web development. Many colleges encourage national-level coding competitions and certifications, directly enhancing employability.

You can confidently wait for Round 2, as you have a very high chance of securing CSE at one of these institutes due to expected cutoff movement, especially after withdrawals. While getting a significantly better college than East Point in Round 2 is unlikely, similar or equivalent choices—such as East West Institute or Brindavan—are assured, and all deliver solid foundational opportunities for a CSE career. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 28, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir.. My daughter wants clarity from you for B tech cse admission with what specialisation of AI or Quantum computing? Please clarify sir
Ans: B.Tech CSE with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence (AI) equips students with advanced skills in machine learning, neural networks, data analytics, computer vision, robotics, and natural language processing, making them industry-ready for immediate roles in automation, healthcare, fintech, cybersecurity, smart cities, and data science. The AI job market is expanding at an unprecedented rate—India’s AI sector is projected to grow 25–35% annually and reach ?17 billion by 2027, with global AI markets anticipated to hit $1.81 trillion by 2030, ensuring robust demand for AI engineers, ML researchers, and data scientists. Curricula typically blend foundational computing with project-based learning on intelligent systems, AI-powered automation, behavior modeling, and industry-focused electives, using tools like Python, TensorFlow, and Keras. Opportunities span established companies and fast-growing startups, and placements are consistently strong across sectors from IT, banking, healthcare, and manufacturing to next-gen product development and research.

B.Tech CSE with a specialization in Quantum Computing, while more niche, addresses the emerging need for advanced computational solutions far beyond classical computing's limits. This specialization combines quantum mechanics, quantum algorithms, and AI, preparing students for research and innovation roles in quantum information, cryptography, drug discovery, materials science, finance, and complex optimization problems. With the backing of the National Quantum Mission and increased investment in quantum research, these programs feature industry-relevant electives—like quantum machine learning, quantum image processing, quantum AI integration—and practical training in tools such as IBM Qiskit and TensorFlow Quantum. While the quantum job market is in its early stages, prominent technology companies and startups, governments, and research labs globally are investing heavily in quantum R&D. The field, projected to reach $9 billion by 2030, demands interdisciplinary skills, often favoring those who pursue further studies. Placement opportunities span specialized sectors and research positions; academics and R&D centers offer the majority of roles, but quantum-driven innovation is expected to accelerate, especially as fault-tolerant quantum computers approach practicality within the next decade.

Choosing between these two depends on one’s vision and risk appetite. AI specializations provide immediate employability, broad cross-industry applications, and a versatile foundation—graduates can upskill further into emerging domains, including quantum AI. Quantum Computing, though frontier and high-potential, currently offers fewer but rapidly expanding opportunities, especially for those drawn to research, innovation, or pioneering new commercial applications. Both offer transformative and well-recognized career trajectories, but AI’s market-readiness and cross-domain application make it more accessible and mainstream, while quantum computing is future-oriented and better suited for those deeply interested in cutting-edge theoretical and computational science.

Recommendation
Given the mature scope, immediate job opportunities, higher employability, and universal demand, specializing in Artificial Intelligence in CSE is the balanced choice for most students. Quantum Computing is excellent for those committed to advanced research or niche innovation, but AI specialization assures broader industry acceptance and future-proof skills in today’s competitive technology environment. All the BEST for Your Daughter's Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Career
My EWS rank in jee main is 15000,my homestate and town is odisha, rourkela can I get artificial intelligence branch in csab special rounds
Ans: Subhojeet, With an EWS category rank of 15,000 in JEE Main and Odisha as your home state, the likelihood of securing an Artificial Intelligence branch in NITs, IIITs, or GFTIs via CSAB special rounds is extremely limited. Recent official CSAB and JoSAA data indicate that even for newer or less sought-after NITs and IIITs, closing ranks for Artificial Intelligence courses under the EWS home state and open state quotas rarely exceed 7,000–8,000, while top institutes such as NIT Rourkela and NIT Surathkal typically close EWS admissions for AI branches well below 4,000. IIITs offering specialized AI or AI & Data Science branches generally have EWS closing ranks (for both All India and Home State) under 12,000, with only a few, very new IIITs extending to the 14,000 range, mostly for less competitive streams or in later rounds if vacancies arise. For Odisha-specific institutions, like IIIT Bhubaneswar, EWS closing ranks for CSE and related AI programs have typically remained significantly more competitive, according to prior CSAB/JoSAA records. GFTIs, which have broader and higher cutoffs in select branches, still draw the line for EWS AI admission well below your current rank. Although the CSAB special rounds can see some movement due to seat withdrawals, the chances of an EWS AI seat opening up at your rank are extremely remote based on present and previous year cut-offs, especially for the Artificial Intelligence specialization in reputable NITs and IIITs.

Recommendation
With a 15,000 EWS rank, realistically focus your CSAB choice filling on other branches and backup options, as Artificial Intelligence in NITs/IIITs is not feasible; prioritize alternate circuits like ECE or core CSE in less competitive institutes or good private universities for best outcomes. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 28, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir I have got 115000 crl and 4715 sc rank in jee mains. I got cse in IIIT bhopal in josaa counselling . Can I expect a little better college with cse or ai in csab counselling or should I go with IIIT bhopal.
Ans: With a JEE Main CRL of 115,000 and an SC rank of 4,715, your allocation of CSE at IIIT Bhopal is a strong option, as last year’s CSAB and JoSAA special rounds indicate that most higher-ranked IIITs and NITs with CSE or AI typically closed at SC ranks below 3,000–4,000 for these highly demanded branches. IIIT Bhopal’s CSE program offers robust academic structure, experienced faculty, modern facilities, and a rising placement record—CSE students achieved a 77% placement rate in 2025 with an average package of 20.82LPA and top recruiters including Microsoft and Atlassian. CSAB special rounds rarely witness significant downward opening in closing ranks for CSE/AI in NITs, IIITs, or GFTIs, especially for centrally popular branches, so expecting a substantial upgrade is not realistic. IIIT Bhopal’s national ranking, strong peer group, and modern infrastructure provide a conducive environment for learning and employability, and its placement statistics are among the best among newer IIITs.

Recommendation
Go ahead and confirm your IIIT Bhopal CSE seat, as the likelihood of securing a visibly better CSE/AI seat at other NITs or IIITs in CSAB is minimal at your SC rank. IIIT Bhopal combines excellent academic and placement opportunities and is a prudent, future-focused choice for engineering in computer science. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x