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51-year-old, divorced with a 32-year-old sister, recently lost job and seeks NPS withdrawal advice

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  | Answer  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Feb 10, 2025

Milind Vadjikar is an independent MF distributor registered with Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and a retirement financial planning advisor registered with Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
He has a mechanical engineering degree from Government Engineering College, Sambhajinagar, and an MBA in international business from the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune.
With over 16 years of experience in stock investments, and over six year experience in investment guidance and support, he believes that balanced asset allocation and goal-focused disciplined investing is the key to achieving investor goals.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Feb 10, 2025Hindi
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I am 51 single, divorced and have one little sister who is 32. Recently I lost my job, and I am not in the mood to search for a new one. I am in the process of making arrangement to fulfill my monthly needs. I am holding the NPS which has a small corpus of 5 lacs in tier 1 and 45k in tier 2. Now I want to completely exit from the NPS. Now I must compulsorily accept the 20% withdrawal and 80% annuity. I have a few queries below. 1. Should I consider buying 100% annuity. 20% withdrawal does not make sense 2. Should I consider putting 1.5 lacs more to enhance the annuity (The corpus will become 7 lacs approx.). 3. Should I consider taking out the annuity on a yearly basis (Please explain Its pros and cons), since it offers more benefit. 4. Should I consider the Shriram life insurance. 5. Will it be safe to consider Shriram life insurance for life long future annuity. It offers the highest annuity. 6. Should I consider Annuity for Life with ROP - Subscriber will get annuity for lifetime and on death of the Subscriber, payment of annuity ceases & 100% of the purchase price will be returned to the nominee(s). The annual offer is 49,063.00 (7.01%) 7. Should I consider Annuity for Life without ROP - Subscriber will get annuity for lifetime and on death of the Subscriber, payment of annuity ceases, and no further amount will be payable. The annual offer is 58,112.00 (8.30%)

Ans: Hello;

Point wise answers to your queries as given below:

1. Yes.
2. Yes.
3. If you do monthly annuity the rate will be lower but you get monthly payouts. In yearly the rate will higher but only one shot payment per year so it depends on your preference.

4. Cannot comment on suitability of xyz firm.

5. Consider an insurer which has good capital adequacy, growing profitable business, preferably listed, reputation of the owner/group apart from decent annuity rates on offer.

6 & 7. My suggestion would be to opt for annuity for life with ROP to your nominee. Ultimately it is your call.

Please have adequate healthcare insurance cover.

Best wishes;
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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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 13, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 02, 2024Hindi
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Hello, I need guidance for 2 concerns, since I have resigned and existing from NPS I have to compulsorily purchase annuity for 80% of NPS value, which companies annuity plan is best, Aditya Sunlife, LIC, India first, ...pls guide as the purchase value will be around 12Lacs. 2- I'll be getting around 10Lacs lumpsum, where to and how to invest considering the fact I may not go back to work ever again and I want this funds to grow and create a good wealth for my future, as of now I am 44 years old. Kindly guide
Ans: Annuity plans provide regular income post-retirement. They are crucial for financial stability when you stop working. Since you need to purchase an annuity for 80% of your NPS value, selecting the right plan is essential.

Evaluating Annuity Providers
Aditya Sun Life
Aditya Sun Life is known for its flexible options. They offer different annuity plans, allowing you to choose based on your needs. Their customer service is also commendable.

LIC (Life Insurance Corporation of India)
LIC is a trusted name in insurance. They provide a variety of annuity plans with reliable returns. LIC’s reputation for stability makes it a popular choice.

IndiaFirst Life Insurance
IndiaFirst offers competitive annuity rates and several plan options. Their plans are designed to cater to diverse needs, ensuring you find a suitable one.

Key Factors to Consider
Annuity Rates
Compare the annuity rates offered by different providers. Higher rates will ensure better returns.

Payout Frequency
Choose between monthly, quarterly, or annual payouts based on your requirements.

Plan Features
Evaluate additional features such as joint life annuity, return of purchase price, and inflation-adjusted payouts.

Customer Service
Good customer service is essential for smooth claim processing and query resolution.

Provider Reputation
Select a provider with a solid reputation for reliability and financial stability.

Investing the Lumpsum of Rs 10 Lakhs
Investment Goals and Risk Tolerance
You’re 44 and planning not to return to work. Your investment strategy should focus on growth and wealth creation. Balancing risk and returns is crucial.

Diversified Portfolio
Mutual Funds
Investing in mutual funds can provide good returns. Actively managed funds are preferable over index funds due to the potential for higher returns through expert management.

Debt Funds
Debt funds offer stable returns with lower risk. They are suitable for preserving capital and earning moderate returns.

Gold
Gold is a reliable investment for diversification. It acts as a hedge against inflation and market volatility.

Equity Funds
Equity funds have higher risk but offer substantial returns over time. Diversify across sectors to mitigate risk.

Regular Funds vs. Direct Funds
Benefits of Regular Funds
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offers several advantages. They provide expert guidance, ongoing portfolio management, and personalized advice. This ensures your investments are well-managed and aligned with your goals.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds may seem cost-effective due to lower expense ratios. However, without professional guidance, you may make suboptimal investment decisions, potentially affecting your returns.

Investment Strategy
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Consider setting up SIPs for consistent investment in mutual funds. This mitigates market volatility and promotes disciplined investing.

Asset Allocation
Maintain a balanced mix of equity, debt, and gold. This diversification reduces risk and enhances potential returns.

Rebalancing
Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to align with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Risk Management
Emergency Fund
Set aside a portion of your lump sum as an emergency fund. This ensures liquidity for unforeseen expenses.

Insurance
Ensure you have adequate health and life insurance coverage. This protects you and your family from financial hardships in case of emergencies.

Long-term Perspective
Wealth Creation
Investing with a long-term perspective is key to wealth creation. Patience and consistent investing yield significant returns over time.

Avoiding Market Timing
Trying to time the market can be risky. Instead, focus on staying invested through market cycles for better outcomes.

Final Insights
Investing your NPS proceeds and lump sum wisely can secure your financial future. Evaluate annuity providers based on rates, features, and reputation. For your lump sum, diversify across mutual funds, debt funds, and gold. Engage a Certified Financial Planner for professional guidance, ensuring your investments are aligned with your goals. Maintain a balanced portfolio and focus on long-term wealth creation.

By taking these steps, you can build a robust financial plan that supports your aspirations and ensures a secure future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

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I am a 60-year-young, disciplined bachelor with insurance coverage of Rs. 1 crore, which includes both a term plan and traditional plans. I am self-dependent, and no one is financially dependent on me. Since I don't have a need to create a legacy,. Having decided to surrender my traditional policies (having understood the surrender charges) out of the total insurance coverage of 1 Cr. which includes, Term plan. I narrate the policy terms & benefits, so that you can suggest me the better: 1) PPT (Premium Payment) for the policy is over, I have no premium commitment now. 2) Annual Survival Benefit: Currently receiving 5.5% of the Sum Assured annually. (which is almost equal to the return from FDR or Debt fund) 3) Bonus: at the end of the policy term there will be bonus in the policy which also I got it which is approx 80% of the premiums paid. 3) Life Cover: Coverage until 100 years of age, with annual survival benefit @ 5.5% of Sum assured, and death benfit - the Sum Assured plus accumulated bonuses will be paid to the nominee 4) Maturity Benefit: On survival until 100 years, the entire Sum Assured plus accumulated bonuses will be given to the assured.. I have planned at the time of siginging for the policy agreement, with 12 policies to get every month 5.5% of SA, like pension (passive income). Now, ji, please suggest me, Do you I need to surrender the policy considering 80% of premuium paid is received and getting 5.5% pa every month. with no premium commitment and coverage upto 100 years.
Ans: You have a well-structured insurance portfolio with Rs. 1 crore coverage. This includes term and traditional plans. The plan you mentioned provides a 5.5% annual survival benefit, life cover until age 100, and a maturity benefit. The idea of using these policies as a form of pension by receiving 5.5% of the sum assured monthly is thoughtful.

Given your current situation—no dependents and no need to create a legacy—your focus shifts from protection to optimizing returns. With the premium payment term over, you face no further financial commitments. Your plan is now a source of regular income, and at the end of the term, you will receive a bonus amounting to 80% of the premiums paid.

Evaluating the Need to Continue or Surrender the Policies
Benefits of Continuing with the Policy
Regular Income: The 5.5% survival benefit provides a steady income stream. This is particularly useful if you require a predictable cash flow.

Life Cover Until Age 100: While you may not need life cover, this ensures a safety net is in place. Should anything happen, your nominee receives a substantial amount.

Maturity Benefit: The policy promises the sum assured plus accumulated bonuses at age 100. This is a significant amount that adds to your financial security in your later years.

No Further Commitments: With the premium payment term over, you don’t need to invest any more money into this policy. You are just reaping the benefits now.

Drawbacks of Continuing with the Policy
Low Returns: The 5.5% return is modest, akin to the returns from fixed deposits or debt funds. Over time, inflation might erode the purchasing power of this income.

Opportunity Cost: If you surrender the policy, you could potentially invest the surrender value in higher-yielding investments. This could provide better returns over time.

Limited Flexibility: Insurance policies like this one are rigid. You can't easily adjust your investment based on changing market conditions.

Should You Surrender the Policy?
Factors Favoring Surrender
Unlocking Higher Returns: By surrendering the policy, you can reinvest the surrender value in more lucrative options. Actively managed mutual funds, for instance, offer potential for higher returns.

No Need for Life Cover: With no dependents, the life cover aspect may not be essential. The focus should be on maximizing your financial returns rather than providing a death benefit.

Maximizing Financial Freedom: Reinvesting the surrender value gives you more control over your finances. You can tailor your investments to suit your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Factors Against Surrender
Guaranteed Income: If you value the certainty of the 5.5% survival benefit, continuing the policy is advantageous. This is especially true if you prefer a low-risk, predictable income stream.

Bonus Payout: At the end of the term, you receive a bonus equivalent to 80% of the premiums paid. Surrendering the policy means forfeiting this benefit.

Emotional Comfort: Sometimes, the comfort of having a guaranteed income, regardless of the returns, can outweigh the potential for higher returns elsewhere.

Exploring Alternative Investment Options
Actively Managed Mutual Funds
Higher Returns Potential: Actively managed funds often outperform passive options like index funds. Experienced fund managers can navigate market fluctuations to maximize returns.

Professional Guidance: Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures that your investments are aligned with your goals. This helps in optimizing returns while managing risk.

Reinvestment Flexibility: You have the flexibility to reinvest dividends or capital gains, allowing for compounding growth.

Avoiding Direct Funds
Lack of Professional Management: Direct funds require a hands-on approach. Without professional guidance, you might miss out on potential gains or take on unnecessary risks.

Complexity: Direct funds demand more time and knowledge. Unless you’re an expert, this can lead to suboptimal decisions.

Benefits of Regular Funds: By investing through a Certified Financial Planner, you gain access to regular funds. These offer the expertise of a fund manager who can help you navigate market conditions and maximize returns.

Insurance Strategy: Term Plan vs. Traditional Plans
Advantages of Term Plans
Cost-Effective: Term plans provide high coverage at a low cost. This frees up more funds for other investments.

Focus on Wealth Building: With no dependents, you can focus on wealth accumulation rather than protection. The money saved from term insurance premiums can be invested in high-return avenues.

Disadvantages of Traditional Plans
Low Returns: Traditional plans often provide lower returns compared to other investment options. They are primarily designed for protection, not wealth creation.

Lack of Flexibility: Traditional plans are rigid. Once you’re locked in, it’s difficult to adapt to changing financial needs or market conditions.

Should You Retain Your Term Plan?
Minimal Cost: If your term plan premium is low, retaining it might be a good idea. It provides peace of mind at a negligible cost.

Focus on Other Investments: With your primary protection in place, you can focus on building your wealth through other investment options.

Final Insights
In your situation, maximizing your financial returns is key. The traditional policy provides a steady income but may not offer the best returns long-term. Surrendering the policy and reinvesting in actively managed mutual funds could yield better results. This strategy allows you to tailor your investments to your financial goals and risk tolerance.

With no dependents, your primary focus should be on wealth accumulation and enjoying your financial independence. A Certified Financial Planner can guide you through this process, ensuring that your investments are optimized for growth while managing risk.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 11, 2025

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Dear Sir / Madam , i worked for 9 years with company name Atl , My LIC superannuation amount is total around 8 Lac . I am ok with not withdrawing 1/3rd amount Which Option should i choose to get maximum Pension/month and for maximum period , all clauses are mention below for your reference : 7. Option to choose pension i) Life pension ceasing at death, No purchase price shall be paid on death of beneficiary, No guaranteed payments. ii) Life pension with guaranteed payments for 5/10/15/20 years. No purchase price shall be paid on death or at end of 5/10/15/20 years guarantee. On survival to guaranteed payment pension shall be continued to be payable till life survives. (Please specify period) . iii) Life pension ceasing at death of member with return of capital (purchase price) to beneficiary alongwith group pension terminal bonus declared by LIC. iv) Joint life and Last survivor pension to member and his/her spouse (without any gauranteed payments as in case of 1) v) Joint life and last survivor pension to the member and his/her spouse with return of purchase price on death of last survivor alongwith group pension terminal bonus declared by LIC. 8. Mode of payment of pension (specify specifically) (MLY / QLY / HLY / YLY) 9. State whether member wants commutation of pension (Yes / No) as per prevalent Income Tax Rules. (Please note that at present member can commute maximum to 1/3 (33.33%). This proportion may range maximum upto 1/2 (50%) if member is not eligible to get group gratuity. rgds Bharat
Ans: Dear Bharat,

To maximize your monthly pension and ensure the longest duration, the best option depends on your needs:

Maximum Pension:

Option (i) – Life pension ceasing at death offers the highest monthly pension but stops at your death.
Option (ii) – Life pension with a guarantee period (10/15/20 years) ensures pension continues even if you pass away early, making it a safer choice.
Maximum Benefit for Family:

Option (v) – Joint life & last survivor pension with return of purchase price ensures your spouse continues receiving pension and the purchase price is refunded to heirs.
Best Choice for You
If you need maximum pension for life, go for Option (i) or Option (ii) with a 15/20-year guarantee.
If your spouse also needs financial security, choose Option (v).
For pension frequency, monthly (MLY) is best for regular income.

Since you are okay with not withdrawing 1/3rd, you can choose NO for commutation to get a higher pension amount.


Best Regards,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 22, 2025Hindi
Money
I am a 53 year old male working abroad. I am well covered in terms of medical insurance and life insurance. My plan to retire at 63 with 1.5 lakhs per month Although I have below investments, I am looking for a annuity after age 63. Pls guide me on the best annuity option- NPS Vs SWP Vs HDFC pension plus. I have below investments so far: PPF 55 lakhs,EPF 36 lakhs, MF (total cumulative) 5.5 crores ,Employee superannuity+gratuity 14.5 lakhs, NPS 17 lakhs Monthly MF SIP ongoing 2 lakhs Company FD 10 lakhs Gold 16 lakhs My question is 1)Will investing in NPS @ 1.5 lakhs a month fine in active contribution(75%equity+25%debt)? Based on my calculation with existing Rs. 17 lakhs NPS corpus and Rs. 1.5 lakhs monthly contribution, I can get annuity of Rs. 75K per month at age 63 (besides the lumpsum amount of 60%, rest 40% as annuity). Pls suggest if this approach fine? 2) Is withdrawal from SWP a good option to receive regular monthly payment? Wouldnt the LTCG tax come in to effect with this approach since LTCG would come in beyond Rs. 1.25 lakhs of gains, pls suggest on this? 3) The HDFC life smart pension plus-gives annuity at IRR of 6%. So I will have to invest @ 30 lakhs per year for next 5 years to get annual annuity of Rs. 15 lakhs from age 63 onwards. How is this option?
Ans: You have done very structured investing and created strong wealth. At 53, planning retirement at 63 with Rs.1.5 lakhs monthly target is practical. Your portfolio size is already substantial and gives you flexibility. You are also rightly evaluating different income options. Let us analyse from all angles and provide you with a 360-degree perspective.

» Present financial strength

– PPF of Rs.55 lakhs gives safe, tax-free income support.
– EPF of Rs.36 lakhs is a strong retirement base.
– Mutual funds of Rs.5.5 crores form the biggest growth driver.
– Superannuation and gratuity of Rs.14.5 lakhs add steady support.
– NPS of Rs.17 lakhs is a start, though not very large.
– SIP of Rs.2 lakhs monthly adds immense compounding over next 10 years.
– FD of Rs.10 lakhs and gold of Rs.16 lakhs diversify safety and hedge.
– You are well protected with insurance, so assets are purely for retirement.

» Why annuity products look attractive

– Annuity gives guaranteed income for life.
– But annuity rates in India are quite low.
– Once invested, money is locked, with no liquidity.
– Inflation eats into fixed annuity income.
– For 25–30 year retirement, annuity gives certainty but reduces growth.
– You may feel safe with annuity, but real value drops with time.

» NPS active contribution option

– You plan Rs.1.5 lakhs monthly into NPS till 63.
– With 75% equity and 25% debt, growth potential is high.
– NPS gives tax benefit, but at withdrawal, 40% compulsory annuity is mandatory.
– That annuity portion will earn very low IRR, around 5–6%.
– Flexibility is less, as NPS rules restrict free usage of corpus.
– Your estimate of Rs.75,000 monthly annuity is realistic.
– But compared to mutual fund SWP, long-term income will be less.
– NPS suits those with limited discipline, but you already show financial maturity.

» SWP as income stream

– SWP from mutual funds is flexible and liquid.
– You can decide the withdrawal amount and frequency.
– Portfolio continues to grow while you withdraw.
– It is inflation friendly, as corpus is still invested in growth assets.
– Taxation is important: equity MF gains beyond Rs.1.25 lakhs LTCG taxed at 12.5%.
– STCG on withdrawals below 12 months holding is taxed at 20%.
– Still, overall taxation is lower than annuity taxation (full income tax on annuity).
– SWP also allows you to stop, pause, or increase later.
– It balances growth and income, unlike annuity which is rigid.

» HDFC life smart pension plus

– This is an insurance-linked pension product.
– IRR is around 6% only.
– You plan to invest Rs.30 lakhs yearly for 5 years, total Rs.1.5 crores.
– Annual annuity of Rs.15 lakhs means only 6% return, taxable fully.
– Liquidity is zero, you cannot access your money.
– Flexibility is lost, while better returns possible in mutual funds.
– Such products benefit insurance companies more than investors.
– Locking large amounts in such low-return product is not advisable.

» Tax comparison across options

– Annuity: taxed fully as income, no exemption, no indexation.
– SWP: equity gains taxed at 12.5% LTCG after Rs.1.25 lakhs limit.
– Debt MF SWP taxed as per income slab, so less efficient.
– NPS: lumpsum 60% tax-free, but 40% annuity fully taxable.
– Clearly, SWP from equity MF is most tax efficient in long run.

» Risk and inflation factors

– Retirement may last 25–30 years.
– Fixed annuity loses value due to inflation.
– SWP with equity exposure grows with inflation, keeping income relevant.
– PPF and EPF give some cushion but interest may reduce in future.
– Portfolio mix of growth and safety ensures both income and protection.

» Suggested approach

– Avoid locking too much in annuity products.
– Continue SIPs in equity mutual funds till 63.
– Shift part of equity gains to debt near retirement for safety.
– At 63, use SWP from mutual funds as primary retirement income.
– Keep PPF and EPF for safe drawdown later years.
– Keep NPS contributions moderate. Rs.1.5 lakhs monthly is too heavy.
– Instead, strengthen mutual funds for flexibility and growth.
– Maintain emergency corpus outside these investments.
– Review yearly with a Certified Financial Planner to adjust asset allocation.

» Final Insights

You are already on a very strong path. With your existing corpus and SIPs, you can comfortably generate Rs.1.5 lakhs per month from age 63. NPS heavy contribution will reduce flexibility and force you into annuity. SWP gives better growth, tax efficiency, and liquidity. Insurance-linked pension products like HDFC Pension Plus offer low returns and low flexibility, hence not suitable. Your focus should be on expanding mutual fund base, balancing with debt funds, and creating a flexible SWP withdrawal strategy. This approach secures income, manages tax, and keeps your retirement lifestyle safe against inflation.

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

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

..Read more

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |417 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 01, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi Sunil, I am a 53 year old male working abroad. I am well covered in terms of medical insurance and life insurance. My plan is to retire at 63 with 1.5 lakhs per month. Although I have below investments, I am looking for a annuity after age 63. Pls guide me on the best annuity option- NPS Vs SWP Vs HDFC pension plus. I have below investments so far: PPF 55 lakhs,EPF 36 lakhs, MF (total cumulative) 5.5 crores ,Employee superannuity+gratuity 14.5 lakhs, NPS 17 lakhs Monthly MF SIP ongoing 2 lakhs Company FD 10 lakhs Gold 16 lakhs. My question is 1)Will investing in NPS @ 1.5 lakhs a month fine in active contribution(75%equity+25%debt)? Based on my calculation with existing Rs. 17 lakhs NPS corpus and Rs. 1.5 lakhs monthly contribution, I can get annuity of Rs. 75K per month at age 63 (besides the lumpsum amount of 60%, rest 40% as annuity). Pls suggest if this approach fine? 2) Is withdrawal from SWP a good option to receive regular monthly payment? Wouldnt the LTCG tax come in to effect with this approach since LTCG would come in beyond Rs. 1.25 lakhs of gains, pls suggest on this? 3) The HDFC life smart pension plus-gives annuity at IRR of 6%. So I will have to invest @ 30 lakhs per year for next 5 years to get annual annuity of Rs. 15 lakhs from age 63 onwards. How is this option?
Ans: Hi,

I understand your concern of getting annuity to cover your expenses post retirement. And I appreciate your research.
Your overall numbers look quite good and these can last forever along with a huge inheritance to your family.

Now coming to annuity options, I would recommend option 2 for you. A SWP option would be best keeping in mind several factors:
1. You already have a huge mutual fund portfolio. It will be redesigned using a strategy into a mix of equity and hybrid and debt funds. You will get your monthly payout and your rest amount will continue growing as per the market making your corpus to grow forever.
2. You can change (increase or decrease or redesign) your entire portfolio as per your wish at any time post retirement.
3. This strategy can easily fetch you a return of 11% yearly which neither NPS nor HDFC pension plus will give.
4. Regarding tax, it would only be applicable to the monthly takeout done by you. Even NPS annuity and HDFC plans are taxable post retirement. So you need not worry about any tax as all will be same for you.

Hence 2nd SWP option suits you the best.

Lastly, with such a huge corpus and to plan a proper retirement plan for you, kindly consult a Certified Financial Planner - a CFP who can guide you with exact funds to invest in keeping in mind your age, goals and risk profile.

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

..Read more

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Nayagam P P  |10852 Answers  |Ask -

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

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

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Asked on - Dec 07, 2025 | Answered on Dec 07, 2025
Thankyou
Ans: Welcome Sree.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

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

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

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

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

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

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

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

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

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

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

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

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

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

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

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

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

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

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

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

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

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

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

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

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

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

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

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

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

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

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

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

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

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

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

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

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