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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 17, 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 - Oct 17, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi. I am 42 year male. I have a steady secure job. I have invested 2 Cr in commercial real estate which I will never sell, is giving me 70,000/- per month passive income. I stay with my parents. My MF portfolio has 60 Lakhs already invested in Predominantly Small caps (which I will withdraw after 20 years). I have medical insurance and emergency funds. I can sustain my family and kids expenses, with my salary. But can't do any more investment now. Am I going on right path for massive wealth creation?

Ans: You are in a stable position with your job, passive income from real estate, and a long-term investment strategy in mutual funds. You have already invested Rs 2 crore in commercial real estate, generating Rs 70,000 per month in passive income, which is a healthy contribution towards your financial stability.

Additionally, you have Rs 60 lakh invested in small-cap mutual funds, which you plan to hold for 20 years. Your medical insurance, emergency fund, and ability to cover family expenses with your salary are strong foundations for wealth creation. However, the question is whether this approach aligns with your long-term goal of “massive wealth creation.” Let's break it down.

Passive Income from Real Estate
Your commercial real estate investment provides a stable passive income. You have no intention to sell this property, which makes it a permanent part of your financial plan.

Advantages:

Provides a consistent income of Rs 70,000 per month.

Offers long-term financial security without needing to liquidate assets.

Income from commercial property tends to appreciate over time.

Points to Consider:

Commercial real estate lacks liquidity. If at any point you need to access the capital, it won’t be easily available.

Income is subject to taxation based on your slab rate, which reduces the net inflow.

While real estate does contribute to a secure financial future, it should not be your sole focus for wealth creation. Diversification in liquid assets is essential.

Mutual Fund Investment in Small Caps
Your investment of Rs 60 lakh in small-cap funds shows that you’re aiming for long-term growth. Small-cap funds have high growth potential but come with high risks as well.

Advantages:

Small caps can generate higher returns in the long term, as you are looking at a 20-year horizon.

Historically, small caps outperform large caps in the long run.

Staying invested for 20 years reduces short-term volatility.

Points to Consider:

Small-cap funds can be volatile, especially during economic downturns.

It’s important to ensure that your portfolio isn't overly concentrated in one asset class. Right now, small caps form a significant portion of your portfolio, and this could expose you to higher risks.

Review and rebalance periodically. Small-cap funds might perform well, but reviewing the performance every few years is important to ensure they align with your goals.

If your objective is wealth creation, small-cap funds are a good vehicle, but you might want to diversify further to reduce risks.

No Additional Investments for Now
You mentioned that you cannot make any more investments currently, which is understandable given your family responsibilities and expenses.

Advantages:

You are financially secure, as your salary covers your day-to-day and family expenses.

Your current investments are already substantial, giving you peace of mind.

Points to Consider:

While it’s good that your salary covers your expenses, future opportunities to invest more should be explored when your financial situation allows. More capital invested earlier could compound significantly over the years.

Consider automated increases in investments. As your salary grows, you can set up an automated increase in SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans) to keep contributing without feeling an immediate financial pinch.

Insurance and Emergency Fund
You have a medical insurance policy and an emergency fund in place, which is essential for financial stability.

Advantages:

This ensures that any medical emergencies or sudden expenses don’t derail your long-term financial plans.

With adequate coverage, your focus on wealth creation remains unaffected by unexpected financial burdens.

Points to Consider:

Ensure that your insurance coverage is adequate for future needs, especially as medical costs rise.

Keep your emergency fund separate and only use it for unforeseen situations. It should ideally cover 6–12 months of living expenses.

Diversification for Long-Term Wealth Creation
Massive wealth creation comes from a balance between high-growth assets like small caps and more stable, diversified investments. Although your current investment strategy has potential, focusing solely on real estate and small caps may not be the best approach for building a massive corpus.

Suggestions:

Increase Diversification: Over time, you might want to add mid-cap and large-cap mutual funds to your portfolio. This will help reduce risk while ensuring reasonable returns.

Tax-Efficient Investments: Consider tax-efficient avenues for investment that can help reduce the tax burden on your passive income and investment returns.

Avoid Over-Concentration: While small caps have the potential for higher returns, avoid putting all your long-term savings into one category. If possible, when your financial situation allows, diversify across other types of funds like balanced funds or even debt funds.

Taxation Considerations
Your commercial real estate income and capital gains from mutual funds are taxable. Keep in mind the taxation on mutual funds:

For equity mutual funds, long-term capital gains (LTCG) over Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.

For debt mutual funds, LTCG and STCG are taxed according to your income tax slab.

To maximise your post-tax returns, consider discussing tax-saving strategies with a Certified Financial Planner.

Can You Achieve Massive Wealth Creation?
Based on your current investments, you are on the right path to financial stability, but achieving massive wealth creation will require careful planning and some adjustments in the future.

Your Strengths:

Real estate provides passive income that adds to your financial security.

You have invested in small caps, which have high growth potential over 20 years.

Your income can sustain your current lifestyle and family expenses.

Areas to Improve:

Your investments are currently heavily concentrated in small caps and real estate. Adding mid-cap and large-cap funds will help reduce risk.

You may want to gradually increase your investment amount over time as your financial situation improves.

Keep tax implications in mind to maximise your wealth.

Final Insights
You are on a steady financial path, and your investments have good growth potential. However, massive wealth creation requires a more diversified approach. You have the foundation to build upon, and with some adjustments in your portfolio and future investment strategy, you can aim for significant wealth over time.

When your financial situation allows, consider diversifying across various mutual fund categories and look into tax-efficient investment strategies. Additionally, regular reviews of your portfolio will ensure that you stay on track to meet your long-term goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 17, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 17, 2024Hindi
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Dear Sir, I am 48 year old, having a monthly income of 4 lakh a month post tax. my current investments as follows . Mutual Fund - monthly contribution of 30k for the past 6 years and it has generated a corpus of 20lac so far. LIC jeevan saral yearly payment of 1lakh and this has generated a value of 31lakh so far.. FD currently to the tune of 1.20 crore and couple of other investments to the tune of 3 lakh. I need an advice as am targeting to get 1.5 crore more in next 5 years over and above the current wealth i have. I have no loan commitment. my monthly expenses around 1.5 lakh on an average
Ans: You're in a great financial position with a good monthly income, consistent savings, and a diversified portfolio. Here are some strategies to help you achieve your goal of accumulating an additional Rs. 1.5 crore in the next 5 years:

1. Increase Monthly Investment Amount:

You're currently saving Rs. 30,000 per month in mutual funds. Consider increasing this amount to accelerate your wealth accumulation. You have a significant disposable income (Rs. 4 lakh - Rs. 1.5 lakh = Rs. 2.5 lakh) after expenses.
2. Review Mutual Fund Allocation:

After 6 years, your chosen mutual fund has generated a corpus of Rs. 20 lakh. Analyze the fund's performance and risk profile. Consider consulting a financial advisor to ensure your mutual fund aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.
3. Explore Equity Investment Options:

While FDs offer stability, their returns may not outpace inflation. Consider allocating a portion of your increased savings to equity-based instruments like stocks or aggressive mutual funds for potentially higher growth. However, remember the inherent risk associated with equity investments.
4. Invest in Tax-Saving Instruments:

Utilize tax-saving instruments like Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) to save taxes while potentially earning higher returns compared to FDs.
Here's a possible breakdown of increased savings:

Increase monthly SIP by Rs. 50,000 (Rs. 30,000 existing + Rs. 50,000 increase)
Invest Rs. 1,00,000 per month in aggressive mutual funds or direct stock picking (if you have the expertise or consult a financial advisor).
Important Considerations:

Risk Tolerance: Equity investments carry higher risk. Ensure your overall portfolio aligns with your risk tolerance.
Diversification: Maintain diversification across asset classes (equity, debt, gold etc.) to mitigate risk.
Financial Advisor: Consulting a financial advisor can provide personalized investment strategies based on your goals and risk profile.
Additional Tips:

Track and Review: Regularly track your investments and review your portfolio to adapt to market conditions and your evolving goals.
Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses.
By increasing your savings, considering higher growth investment options, and maintaining a diversified portfolio, you can significantly increase your chances of achieving your target of Rs. 1.5 crore in the next 5 years. Remember, this is a general guideline, and consulting a financial advisor can provide a more personalized roadmap for your specific situation.

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 29, 2024

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Hello , My age is 30 and have investments as follows: 15 lacs in fd , 15 lacs in nsc, 5.5 lacs in ppf which will go upto 10 lacs in next 3 years (during maturity), 5 lacs in stocks and 2 sip 10k in quant elss tax saver fund & 6k in kotak elss tax fund , 5k/m contribution in nps.I have housing rent which is 35k/m and monthly expense upto ?6k. I am the only one earning at home. I want to generate wealth to cover my childs education and higher studies.
Ans: You have a good start in your investment journey. Your age is 30, and you have a well-diversified portfolio. Your goal is to generate wealth for your child's education and higher studies. Let's analyse your current investments and provide insights for future growth.

Current Investment Overview
Fixed Deposits: Rs 15 lakhs

National Savings Certificate (NSC): Rs 15 lakhs

Public Provident Fund (PPF): Rs 5.5 lakhs (expected to grow to Rs 10 lakhs in 3 years)

Stocks: Rs 5 lakhs

SIPs: Rs 10,000 in ELSS tax saver fund, Rs 6,000 in another ELSS tax fund

National Pension System (NPS): Rs 5,000 monthly

Housing Rent: Rs 35,000 monthly

Monthly Expenses: Rs 6,000

Analysis of Your Current Portfolio
Fixed Deposits and NSC: These are low-risk, but returns are often low. They provide stability but may not keep pace with inflation.

PPF: This is a safe and tax-efficient option. It is a good long-term investment.

Stocks: High-risk, high-reward. Requires careful selection and monitoring.

SIPs in ELSS Funds: These offer tax benefits and potential for good returns. However, avoid duplication in fund choices.

NPS: Good for retirement planning. Offers tax benefits and disciplined savings.

Recommendations for Wealth Generation
Diversify Investments: Avoid putting too much in low-return options. Consider increasing exposure to equity mutual funds for higher growth potential.

Review ELSS Funds: Having two ELSS funds is redundant. Opt for one well-performing ELSS fund. This simplifies management and can boost returns.

Increase Equity Exposure: Allocate more to equity mutual funds. These funds generally offer better returns over the long term.

Regular Fund Investing: Consider investing through regular funds with a Certified Financial Planner. This ensures professional guidance and avoids common investment mistakes.

Avoid Direct Funds: Direct funds lack professional advice. Regular funds with CFP help are better for most investors.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Professional Management: Fund managers actively manage the portfolio for optimal returns.

Flexibility: They can adjust holdings based on market conditions.

Potential for Higher Returns: Actively managed funds often outperform index funds.

Additional Steps for Financial Security
Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund equal to 6-12 months of expenses. This covers unexpected financial needs.

Insurance Coverage: Ensure adequate life and health insurance. This protects your family from unforeseen events.

Regular Portfolio Review: Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio. This keeps your investments aligned with your goals and market conditions.

Final Insights
Your investment portfolio is well-diversified but can benefit from adjustments. Shift some funds from low-return options to equity mutual funds. Simplify your ELSS investments and increase equity exposure. Regular funds with Certified Financial Planner guidance offer better returns and convenience. Maintain an emergency fund and ensure adequate insurance coverage. Regular reviews and rebalancing keep your portfolio on track. This approach will help you generate wealth for your child's education and secure your financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 28, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 27, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 24 years old..My current inhand salary is 27000 per month...I have 4 LIC including my parents ..for which I pay 1.1 lakh per annum as premium..I am also investing 6000 rupees in mutual fund. 1 large cap(2000 ruppes)..2 small cap(1000 each) and 1 large and mid cap(2000 rupees) fund...I also recently started investing in ppf....have 30000 in bank account..Pls suggest if I am in right track for wealth creation or need further approach ...Thank You..
Ans: You have a good start in managing your finances. Your income is Rs. 27,000 per month. You have four LIC policies, with an annual premium of Rs. 1.1 lakh. You are investing Rs. 6,000 per month in mutual funds, covering large-cap, small-cap, and large and mid-cap funds. Additionally, you’ve started investing in PPF and have Rs. 30,000 in your bank account.

Insurance Coverage and Premiums
LIC Policies: Paying Rs. 1.1 lakh annually for LIC policies is a significant portion of your income. It's important to ensure that the coverage provided by these policies meets your needs. LIC policies often combine insurance with investment, which may not be the most efficient use of your money.

Term Insurance: If you do not have a term insurance policy, consider one. Term insurance provides pure life coverage at a much lower cost than traditional LIC policies. It would free up funds for other investments.

Investment Strategy Evaluation
Mutual Fund Investments: Your Rs. 6,000 per month investment in mutual funds is a good step. You’ve diversified across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. This approach balances risk and potential returns. However, given your age, consider increasing your contribution to small and mid-cap funds. These funds have the potential for higher returns over the long term, which aligns with your goal of wealth creation.

Avoiding Index Funds: It’s good you’re investing in actively managed funds rather than index funds. Actively managed funds can outperform the market, especially in the Indian context. Index funds, while lower in fees, may not offer the same growth potential.

Regular Funds vs. Direct Funds: If you’re investing in direct funds, consider the benefits of regular funds. Regular funds, through a Certified Financial Planner, offer professional guidance. This can help you navigate market fluctuations and ensure your portfolio is well-balanced. Direct funds, while cheaper, require a more hands-on approach.

PPF and Bank Savings
PPF Investments: Starting a PPF account is a smart move. PPF offers tax benefits and a secure, long-term savings option. Continue investing in PPF regularly. This will build a solid foundation for future financial goals, like buying a house or funding retirement.

Bank Savings: Keeping Rs. 30,000 in your bank account is a good start for an emergency fund. However, aim to build this up to at least three to six months of living expenses. This will ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected financial challenges.

Recommendations for Wealth Creation
1. Reassess Your Insurance Portfolio

Review LIC Policies: Consider whether the investment component of your LIC policies is giving you adequate returns. If not, it may be worth exploring the possibility of surrendering some policies and redirecting the funds to mutual funds or PPF.

Add Term Insurance: If you haven’t already, consider getting a term insurance plan. It provides higher coverage at a lower premium, allowing you to allocate more towards investments.

2. Optimize Your Mutual Fund Investments

Increase SIP Amount: If possible, try to increase your monthly SIPs. Even a small increase can have a significant impact over time due to compounding.

Focus on Growth Funds: Given your age, prioritize investments in growth-oriented funds like small and mid-cap funds. These funds are more volatile but offer higher potential returns over the long term.

3. Build a Robust Emergency Fund

Increase Savings: Aim to build your bank savings to Rs. 1.5 lakh, which would cover about six months of expenses. You can keep this in a high-interest savings account or a liquid mutual fund for easy access.
4. Long-Term Financial Planning

PPF as a Long-Term Tool: Continue investing in PPF regularly. Over 15 years, this will grow into a significant corpus, thanks to the power of compounding.

Consider Retirement Goals Early: Even though retirement is far away, starting to plan now will give you a huge advantage. Continue your PPF contributions and mutual fund SIPs, and consider gradually increasing your investments as your income grows.

Final Insights
You’re on the right track, especially at such a young age. However, optimizing your insurance and investment strategy will help you achieve your wealth creation goals more effectively. Keep reviewing and adjusting your financial plan as your income and circumstances change. This proactive approach will ensure you build a strong financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2025

Money
Hello sir I'm working in PSU and earning 1.0 lakh per month. I have purchased term plan of 1.00 cr and health insurance policy of 10.00 lakh cover. My savings are 20 lakhs in mutual fund and 10 lakh in shares. I'm 32 years old. I have no emi and currently investing 50k in mutual fund every month . Please review and guide me for wealth building. I have not invested in real estate. Should I invest in real estate and how. Saurabh Tiwari
Ans: You are 32 years old with stable PSU income. That’s a great start.

You are saving Rs.50,000 per month in mutual funds. Very disciplined.

You already have Rs.30 lakhs in mutual funds and shares. That’s significant.

You also have Rs.1 crore term cover and Rs.10 lakh health cover. Very good.

You also have no EMI or loan pressure. That’s a strong financial position.

These things show you are managing your finances well. Appreciate your approach.

Now we will go deeper. Let’s optimise your future wealth creation plan.

You Should Not Invest in Real Estate

You asked if real estate should be part of your portfolio.

Let’s assess this clearly.

Real estate blocks a large amount of capital.

It lacks liquidity. You cannot sell quickly if you need money.

Property requires maintenance, taxes, and legal care.

Rental yield is usually low in India. Around 2 to 3% only.

Also, resale price depends on market cycles. Not always predictable.

Real estate brings emotional stress and paperwork also.

At your stage, real estate is not needed.

You already have better-performing investments in mutual funds.

Keep your portfolio simple and flexible.

Your Mutual Fund Investment is a Good Strategy

You invest Rs.50,000 monthly in mutual funds. That’s a strong move.

Mutual funds give better flexibility and transparency.

You can start, stop, increase or decrease anytime.

There is professional fund management involved.

They manage risk and returns with experience.

You must invest only in actively managed mutual funds.

Do not invest in index funds.

Index funds only copy the index. No research involved.

They cannot react to market changes actively.

They give average returns, not superior performance.

You must avoid index funds for wealth creation.

Actively managed funds adjust based on market signals.

They aim to beat the market, not just copy it.

Stay with actively managed funds only.

Don’t Invest in Direct Funds

Direct mutual funds may look cheaper. But they lack guidance.

You invest without personalised advice in direct plans.

No expert is there to guide rebalancing or review.

Many investors pick wrong funds in direct mode.

They also redeem early due to fear.

Regular plan via Certified Financial Planner gives peace and structure.

It includes risk profiling, goal matching and review sessions.

This helps you stay disciplined and focused.

Even fund selection is better aligned to your goals.

Stick to regular funds with guidance.

Don’t chase small savings by going direct.

Review the Structure of Your Portfolio

You already have Rs.20 lakhs in mutual funds.

And Rs.10 lakhs in direct shares.

Let’s structure this better now.

Split your overall goals into short, mid, and long-term buckets.

Each goal must have a separate investment plan.

Short-term goal (1-2 years) needs liquid and low-risk funds.

Mid-term goals (3-5 years) need hybrid or balanced funds.

Long-term goals (7+ years) need good quality equity funds.

This kind of bucket structure gives clarity and peace.

Also helps in managing your asset allocation better.

Your Direct Equity Holding Needs Assessment

You have Rs.10 lakhs in stocks. That’s a good size.

But individual shares carry high risk.

Unless you have time and skill, this can be dangerous.

One poor choice can affect overall return.

Mutual funds reduce this risk with diversification and expert handling.

If you are managing shares yourself, check past returns.

If returns are not beating mutual funds, shift some to funds.

Also avoid overexposure to few companies or sectors.

Diversification is not optional. It is safety.

Don’t exceed 20-25% of portfolio in direct stocks.

Keep the rest in mutual funds for stability.

Build an Emergency Fund if Not Already Done

You did not mention emergency fund in your note.

This is a must before all investments.

Keep at least 6 months of expenses aside.

For you, that may be Rs.6 to 7 lakhs.

Use liquid funds or sweep-in FDs.

This protects against job loss or medical event.

This should not be mixed with investment portfolio.

Keep it separate and untouched.

Stay Away from Fancy or Trendy Investments

Avoid crypto or other unregulated products.

These may sound attractive but are risky.

Your current approach is working well.

Stick to what is tested and consistent.

Wealth creation is not about thrill. It is about structure.

Focus on long-term strategy, not temporary fads.

Track and Review Portfolio Annually

You are already investing regularly.

But don’t forget review is also key.

At least once a year, check if all goals are on track.

Check if fund performance is aligned to benchmark.

Review asset allocation—debt vs equity.

Also match your progress with life goals.

Adjust SIP amounts if income has increased.

This gives more power to your plan.

Do Not Increase Lifestyle Expenses Unnecessarily

You don’t have EMI burden. That’s good.

But avoid the trap of lifestyle inflation.

Don’t increase your spending just because salary increases.

Use that extra income to invest more.

Increase SIP every year with salary growth.

This step alone can build huge wealth.

It’s called SIP step-up strategy. Very powerful.

Think About Retirement Planning Actively

You are just 32 now. Retirement looks far.

But this is the best time to build retirement fund.

Time is your biggest strength today.

Even small SIP now becomes big later.

Start a separate SIP only for retirement.

Don’t mix it with other goals.

Keep investing in equity mutual funds for this.

You can also use top-up SIP feature for this.

Let this fund run for next 25-30 years.

It will take care of your future freedom.

Be Mindful of Taxation on Mutual Funds

Tax rules are changing now.

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

STCG on equity funds is taxed at 20%.

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So, avoid frequent switching and redeeming.

Stay long term to reduce tax impact.

Also track capital gains each year for filing.

Tax planning is also part of wealth building.

Avoid Buying ULIPs or Traditional Insurance Plans

You did not mention holding ULIPs. That’s good.

Don’t mix insurance and investment.

ULIPs and endowment plans give low return.

They also have high charges and long lock-in.

Better to keep term insurance and mutual funds separate.

If anyone offers such combo products, say no.

Use Certified Financial Planner for 360-Degree View

Your portfolio is large now.

A Certified Financial Planner can help manage this better.

They help align all goals—retirement, child future, home, travel.

They also provide review, rebalancing, taxation, insurance planning.

This support improves your peace and clarity.

Don't rely on tips or friends' advice.

Certified professionals offer structured and tested solutions.

You already have strong base. Now move to structured approach.

Finally

Your financial journey is on a very good path.

You have high savings, no debt, and strong discipline.

You also took right steps with insurance.

Now avoid real estate investment. It’s not needed.

Stick with mutual funds, avoid index and direct funds.

Review equity stocks. Don’t exceed 25% exposure.

Use a proper goal-based approach for each investment.

Avoid lifestyle creep. Step-up your SIP yearly.

Add a dedicated retirement fund.

Track taxes and review portfolio yearly.

Get help from Certified Financial Planner for better alignment.

You are already ahead of most. Keep this momentum going.

Your wealth will grow safely and strongly with this direction.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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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

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