I am 53 years old working woman having SIP of 50000 per month. My retirement age is 60 years. My total corpus is 1 crore 30 lacs. How much I should save to have a corpus of around 2.25 crores at my retirement?

Ans: Shrikant, Fuel and Energy Engineering (FEE) focuses on sustainability, renewable energy, and energy systems, with potential for higher education in energy systems, sustainability, and climate tech roles. It offers more opportunities in renewables, thermal, oil & gas, and policy, while Mineral Engineering focuses on mineral processing, extraction, metallurgy, and mining operations. Both branches accept low GATE scores, making it a great chance to get into an IIT.

Choosing between Fuel and Energy Engineering and Mineral Engineering depends on factors such as interest area, job opportunities, future reach, and GATE score concerns. FEE is ideal for forward-thinking individuals interested in future energy technology and for more employment opportunities in India and abroad, while mineral engineering can provide stability for those working in core industries, PSUs, or mining businesses. If you're forward-looking, interested in emerging energy technologies, and want wider career options (in India and globally), Fuel and Energy Engineering is likely the better choice.

If you're okay with a more specialized field and potentially working in core industries, PSUs, or mining companies, then Mineral Engineering can also offer stability. All the Best for Your Admission.

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

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Like women everywhere, Indian women also typically want to date green flags. Kindness, respect, emotional maturity trumps the color of someone’s skin. Now, if you are asking about someone specific, then it would largely depend on their individual preferences, experiences, and comfort levels more than broad assumptions. Attraction is very personal.

Hope this helps

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I am sorry that you are in this difficult situation; it sounds very emotionally draining. Now coming to your question, I cannot give you advice from the legal point of view but I can give you the human pov.- even though you are not responsible for anyone’s mental health, you can still be kind and helpful when someone is at a low point in their lives. You can start by telling her that you care about her, but the romantic relationship is over. And even though you two are not a couple, you will still help her get through this. Tell her that she deserves better and her life has so much value- if she does something, it will definitely affect a lot of people who deeply care for her. Encourage her to talk to someone she is close to. You can also consider alerting someone in your circle who knows the both of you and can help in this situation.

I understand how exhausting it must be to be held emotionally hostage, but since the issue is self-harm, it is best to take things seriously. You might not be able to fix it for her, but you can be kind. If she persists, please consider alerting her family. And if you are overwhelmed, please share the concerns with someone you trust. It must be difficult to carry all the burden alone.

Hope this helps.

Ans: You have done a good job so far. Your existing investments show your commitment to building wealth. Let us now work on giving your plan a complete 360-degree retirement approach. The goal is to create steady income and long-term stability for your future.

We will now evaluate your current financial standing and help you design a retirement strategy that works well for the next 10 years and beyond.

Let us start step by step.

 

Assessing Your Current Financial Position

You are 49 years old and plan to work for 10 more years.

 

Your son will finish engineering in 2026. Your daughter is in Grade XI now.

 

You have Rs 56 lakhs in direct stocks. That’s a solid start.

 

You are investing Rs 25,000 monthly in SIPs with Rs 15 lakhs corpus already.

 

You also have other investments worth Rs 20 lakhs.

 

Your investment journey shows discipline and patience. That is your strength.

 

Reviewing Stock Holdings and Equity Exposure

Rs 56 lakhs in stocks is a big allocation. Stocks are high risk and volatile.

 

Stock markets need constant tracking. Sudden downturns may harm your goals.

 

Please check if your stocks are concentrated in few sectors. Diversification is key.

 

Also check if your stocks are dividend paying. This helps during retirement.

 

For stability, consider reducing high-risk exposure after age 55.

 

Move some stock funds to balanced equity funds with professional fund managers.

 

Active mutual fund managers handle volatility better than passive options.

 

Index funds don’t offer downside protection. They fall as much as the market falls.

 

Active funds allow tactical moves during market falls. That’s a big advantage.

 

Please work with a Certified Financial Planner to review your stock portfolio.

 

SIP Investments – The Growth Engine

Rs 15 lakhs in SIPs shows consistent investing. Well done here.

 

Rs 25,000 monthly SIP is a good habit. You have already built discipline.

 

Try to increase the SIP amount every year. Even 10% rise yearly can help.

 

Equity mutual funds are best for retirement growth over 10+ years.

 

Don’t go with direct mutual funds. Regular plans through a trusted CFP are better.

 

A Certified Financial Planner can track, rebalance and handhold you.

 

Direct plans look cheap. But wrong fund selection can cost a lot more.

 

Regular plans come with advice, research and emotional discipline.

 

Direct plans have no safety net. Avoid mistakes by going with professional help.

 

Other Investments – Time for Consolidation

You have Rs 20 lakhs in other investments. Kindly review those with care.

 

Check if they are in ULIPs, LIC, endowment or traditional policies.

 

If yes, assess surrender value. Exit if returns are poor or locked too long.

 

ULIPs and LIC policies usually give very low long-term returns.

 

That money can earn better in mutual funds over 10 years.

 

Insurance should be separate from investments. Mixing both causes loss.

 

Surrender the policy only after comparing exit load, tax, and maturity timelines.

 

Children’s Education and Future Planning

Your son will finish engineering by 2026. Some costs will arise before that.

 

Keep separate funds ready for final year fees, project work or study abroad.

 

Your daughter is in Class XI. Her higher education will need money in 2 years.

 

Estimate the total cost for both children now. Keep money safe and liquid.

 

Avoid equity investments for education needed within 3 years.

 

Use short-term debt funds or bank FDs for that goal.

 

Keep education planning separate from retirement planning.

 

Next 10 Years – The Build-Up Phase

You have 10 strong working years left. These years are very crucial.

 

Try increasing your SIPs every year. Focus on long-term equity funds.

 

Keep adding lump sum money to mutual funds when you get bonuses or surplus.

 

Track your portfolio yearly with a Certified Financial Planner.

 

After age 55, shift some equity to conservative hybrid or dynamic asset funds.

 

Don’t time the market. Stay invested through ups and downs.

 

Start building a separate emergency fund of 6 months expenses.

 

That helps during job loss, health issue or any surprise cost.

 

Income Planning for Retirement

At 60, you need monthly income for 25+ years. Start preparing now.

 

You will need to build Rs 3 to 4 crore retirement fund at least.

 

That can come from stocks, SIPs, PF and other sources.

 

Don’t depend only on one asset class. Use a proper mix of funds.

 

Use SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) from mutual funds to create monthly income.

 

SWP is tax efficient and gives flexibility. Avoid annuities. They are rigid.

 

Choose 3 to 4 mutual fund types to balance growth and income.

 

Avoid investing in index funds. They rise and fall blindly with the market.

 

Actively managed funds offer better downside control and risk-adjusted returns.

 

Tax Planning Before and After Retirement

Keep a track of capital gains tax while redeeming mutual funds.

 

Long Term Capital Gains above Rs 1.25 lakhs is taxed at 12.5%.

 

Short-term capital gains on equity are taxed at 20%.

 

Debt fund gains are taxed as per your income slab.

 

Work with a tax advisor to minimise tax while withdrawing after 60.

 

Plan your redemptions in tranches to stay within tax-free limits.

 

Health Insurance and Emergency Protection

Please ensure you have good health insurance for self and family.

 

After 60, health costs rise fast. A Rs 25 lakhs cover is ideal.

 

If you have company health cover now, take personal cover too.

 

Personal policy stays even after retirement.

 

Also take critical illness and accident protection if not already done.

 

Estate Planning and Will Creation

Please create a simple Will. Keep your family informed.

 

Nominate family members in mutual funds, stocks and bank accounts.

 

Keep one document listing all your investments and passwords.

 

Inform your spouse or child about your retirement plan and goals.

 

Keep copies of all documents and insurances in one place.

 

Finally

You are on the right track with your investments and mindset.

 

With 10 years of active income, you can build a solid retirement base.

 

Focus on increasing SIPs and reducing risky stock exposure slowly.

 

Don’t stop SIPs when market falls. Continue no matter what.

 

Separate funds for retirement, children’s education and emergencies.

 

Avoid ULIPs, index funds and direct plans. Choose funds through CFPs only.

 

Review all investments yearly with a trusted Certified Financial Planner.

 

Stay disciplined. Retirement success is not luck. It is pure planning and patience.

 

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

Ans: It’s completely okay to have taken time figuring out what you wanted in life. Sometimes we don’t move forward simply because we weren’t ready, or we lacked the clarity or emotional support needed at the time. But that doesn't mean you're behind. Everyone’s timeline is different, and yours is still very much unfolding.

Now that you're feeling ready for a serious relationship, here are a few steps you can take to approach this new chapter with confidence and self-awareness.

Start with clarity. Reflect on what kind of partner you're looking for—not just in terms of age or background, but emotionally and mentally. What values matter to you? What kind of connection are you seeking? Are you open to someone who has been married before? Children? When you’re clear, it becomes easier to recognize the right person when they appear.

At the same time, look inward. Do some emotional housekeeping. Ask yourself: What kind of partner do I want to be? Am I emotionally available? Am I still carrying regret, fear, or pressure about being “late” to marriage? Because entering a relationship out of guilt or urgency often leads to settling. But entering it from a place of self-respect and genuine desire creates something meaningful.

Since you're actively searching, it’s okay to use all tools at your disposal—matrimonial sites, family networks, friends, or even a good matchmaker if culturally appropriate. But be patient and realistic. Finding someone who is also ready, aligned with your values, and emotionally compatible can take time.

Also, try not to let pressure—internal or external—rush you. You don’t need a "perfect" partner; you need someone who sees you, respects you, and is willing to grow with you.

And here’s something to hold on to: many people find love in their 40s, 50s, even later—and those relationships are often more conscious, mature, and fulfilling, because they’re built on real-life experience and emotional wisdom, not just youthful impulse.

Ans: From what you’ve shared, this isn’t just a one-time struggle. It’s a pattern where your desires and emotional connections are consistently overruled by parental control. That doesn’t just impact your relationships—it chips away at your autonomy, your confidence in making life decisions, and ultimately, your sense of self.

Let’s take a step back. It sounds like your parents operate from a space of fear, control, or perhaps even cultural conditioning—believing they know what’s “best” for you, even when that means disregarding your emotions. But here’s the truth: you are the one who has to live with the choices made in your life. Not them. You’re not doing something wrong by loving someone. You’re not “disobedient” because you want a say in your own future.

That being said, when you’ve grown up in a strict household, especially where obedience is confused with love, it can be incredibly hard to assert your independence without feeling crushing guilt or fear. But you need to ask yourself: What kind of life will I have if I continue to silence my heart to please others?

This doesn’t mean you need to make a drastic decision right away. But you do need to begin slowly reclaiming your emotional power. Start by asking: do I want to live in a way that makes others comfortable but leaves me emotionally unfulfilled? Or do I want to begin building the courage to live life on my own terms, even if it means disappointing people?

Your education is important, yes—but love and education are not mutually exclusive. Healthy relationships can actually support your growth, help you manage stress, and increase your emotional resilience. If your boyfriend is kind, supportive, and genuinely wants to see you thrive, that’s a blessing, not a burden.

One path you might consider is gradually building emotional boundaries with your parents—not out of rebellion, but from a place of self-respect. That might look like choosing not to share every personal detail with them, or gently but firmly asserting that your relationship is your private choice. It might mean seeking financial or emotional independence so that your choices aren't controlled by fear of what they’ll do or say.

It won’t be easy—but here’s the truth: choosing yourself doesn’t mean you don’t love your parents. It means you also love yourself.

Ans: The answer isn’t as simple as leaving one life and stepping into another. It’s about honoring your truth while being mindful of the emotional ripple effect, especially on your child. But you also must ask: Can I keep living this way, feeling disconnected and emotionally starved, simply because it’s what’s expected of me? More importantly, what kind of life do I want my son to see me living?

Children are incredibly perceptive. They learn what love looks like not just by how they are treated, but by observing how love is modeled around them. Growing up in a house where emotional distance is the norm can quietly shape their beliefs about relationships. On the flip side, seeing you pursue emotional fulfillment and healthy love can show him that joy, mutual respect, and connection matter—and that it’s okay to change paths when something isn’t working.

Before making any life-altering decisions, it’s crucial to explore your options with clarity. Counseling can be immensely helpful—not necessarily couples counseling, but individual therapy to work through the emotional layers of guilt, confusion, and pressure. It can also prepare you emotionally if you decide to move forward with ending your marriage.

It’s also essential to understand the potential legal, familial, and cultural implications if you choose separation or divorce. Seek guidance not just from an emotional well-being perspective, but also from a legal standpoint. Surround yourself with people who support your healing and growth, whether that’s friends, a therapist, or a coach.

Ultimately, you deserve a life where you feel seen, valued, and emotionally safe. You deserve to model happiness, not sacrifice, for your child. And you deserve to make choices not out of fear, but out of love—for yourself, and for the life you wish to create.

Ans: Earning money is a very important goal for everyone. Let’s look at some clear and easy-to-understand ways.

I will keep each point simple, short, and useful.

 

 

1. Earn Through Job or Profession

This is the first and most common way.

 

Study well or learn a skill.

 

Get a job or start a service.

 

Work regularly. Get monthly salary or fees.

 

 

2. Earn From Business

If you don’t want a job, you can start a small business.

 

Sell products or services.

 

Begin with small investment. Grow step by step.

 

Keep costs low. Serve customers well.

 

 

3. Earn Through Freelancing

If you have a skill, work online.

 

Offer writing, coding, design, or editing.

 

Use platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.

 

Earn in rupees or dollars from home.

 

 

4. Earn Through Investments

Invest money in mutual funds or deposits.

 

Get monthly income through SWP.

 

Let your money work and grow.

 

Start with safe funds. Take help of a Certified Financial Planner.

 

 

5. Earn From YouTube or Social Media

Make videos or posts on what you know.

 

Teach, entertain or share ideas.

 

Build an audience. Earn from ads, sponsors, and products.

 

Takes time. Needs patience and good content.

 

 

6. Earn By Renting Assets

If you have a house or shop, you can rent it.

 

Earn monthly rental income.

 

If you have tools, car, or camera, rent them too.

 

Use safely. Maintain everything well.

 

 

7. Earn By Selling Items Online

Make or collect items to sell.

 

Use Amazon, Flipkart, or your own website.

 

Sell clothes, toys, food, crafts, or books.

 

Keep prices fair. Deliver on time.

 

 

8. Earn From Teaching or Coaching

If you are good at something, teach others.

 

Conduct online or offline classes.

 

Teach school subjects, yoga, music, cooking or language.

 

Charge fees for each session or month.

 

 

9. Earn Through Writing or Blogging

Start a blog on what you love.

 

Write clearly. Help readers.

 

Monetise using ads or sponsored posts.

 

Publish eBooks. Earn royalty.

 

 

10. Earn From Long-Term Investments

Invest for long-term in mutual funds.

 

Over time, get wealth and income both.

 

Avoid gambling, trading, or quick money schemes.

 

Always plan with a Certified Financial Planner.

 

 

Finally

There are many ways to earn. You need time, effort and planning. Choose what suits you best. Use your skills, money, and energy wisely.

Keep learning. Stay honest. Be patient.

That is the secret to steady and strong income.

 

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

Ans: Wanting regular income from investments is a practical and necessary goal. A Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) is one powerful option. It helps you withdraw money monthly from your mutual fund investments. But before you commit Rs. 20 lakhs to SWP, let’s study it from every angle.

Let us understand how SWP works, its safety, usefulness, and risks—clearly and completely.

 

 

What is SWP in Simple Words?

SWP is a feature in mutual funds.

 

It allows you to withdraw a fixed amount every month.

 

The money comes from your own investment in the fund.

 

The remaining amount stays invested in the fund.

 

That balance keeps growing with market performance.

 

It is the opposite of SIP. SIP adds money. SWP gives money back to you.

 

 

How Does It Work in Practice?

Suppose you invest Rs. 20 lakhs in a mutual fund.

 

You set up a SWP of Rs. 25,000 per month.

 

Every month, Rs. 25,000 is credited to your bank account.

 

This continues until you stop or your investment runs out.

 

The remaining capital continues to earn market returns.

 

If the fund performs well, your capital may grow despite withdrawals.

 

If the fund performs poorly, your capital may reduce faster.

 

 

Where Should You Invest for SWP?

Choose equity-oriented hybrid or balanced mutual funds.

 

These funds aim for stable and moderate growth.

 

Avoid high-risk funds like small-cap for SWP needs.

 

Avoid pure debt funds too. They may not beat inflation.

 

Select actively managed funds only.

 

Index funds are not suitable here.

 

Index funds have no human control. They just copy markets.

 

In falling markets, they provide no cushion.

 

Actively managed funds adjust risk and protect capital better.

 

A Certified Financial Planner can help choose suitable funds.

 

 

Is SWP Safe for Rs. 20 Lakhs?

SWP is not a separate product. It is a feature.

 

The safety depends on where your money is invested.

 

The fund's performance decides the return and capital safety.

 

If you choose well-managed funds, SWP becomes more reliable.

 

If you withdraw too much too soon, it becomes risky.

 

So, withdrawal amount must match the fund’s return capacity.

 

A Certified Financial Planner will help you set the right withdrawal rate.

 

 

What Are the Benefits of SWP?

You get regular income every month.

 

This is useful for retired people or families needing cash flow.

 

It is more tax-efficient than FD interest.

 

In equity funds, after one year, gains up to Rs. 1.25 lakh are tax-free.

 

Gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5% only.

 

In FDs, the full interest is taxed as per your slab.

 

SWP gives better control over taxation.

 

You also decide how much and when to withdraw.

 

It does not lock your capital like annuities.

 

You can stop or change the amount anytime.

 

Your remaining capital still grows.

 

 

What Are the Risks Involved in SWP?

The biggest risk is market performance.

 

If the fund performs poorly for long, capital may reduce faster.

 

Withdrawing more than the return rate leads to capital erosion.

 

In early years, if there is a market crash, returns can fall.

 

This is called sequence of return risk.

 

If you panic and stop the SWP, you may lose long-term gains.

 

Therefore, fund selection and amount choice must be done carefully.

 

Do not withdraw too much from equity funds.

 

Stick to 5% to 7% withdrawal of the corpus per year.

 

Rebalance the portfolio annually with the help of a Certified Financial Planner.

 

 

How is Tax Calculated on SWP Withdrawals?

Tax is only on the gain portion, not the full withdrawal.

 

For equity funds, if held more than one year:

 

    • Gains up to Rs. 1.25 lakh in a year are tax-free.

    • Gains above that are taxed at 12.5%.

 

For withdrawals within 1 year, 20% tax on short-term gains.

 

For debt funds, entire gain is taxed as per your income slab.

 

Tax is deducted only on capital gain, not total SWP amount.

 

This makes SWP more tax-friendly than FD interest.

 

 

How Does SWP Compare With FD Interest?

FD interest is fixed but fully taxable.

 

SWP offers flexibility, better post-tax returns, and capital appreciation.

 

FD interest stays flat. SWP can grow if fund performs well.

 

FD locks your capital. SWP keeps your capital liquid.

 

FD maturity must be renewed. SWP can continue for years.

 

FD income stops when capital ends. SWP may continue even longer.

 

In inflation terms, FD income loses value. SWP may protect against inflation.

 

 

Should You Invest Rs. 20 Lakhs in SWP?

Yes, if you want steady monthly income.

 

Yes, if you don’t need the whole amount immediately.

 

Yes, if you invest in the right mutual fund category.

 

No, if you expect guaranteed income like FD.

 

No, if you cannot handle short-term fund fluctuations.

 

No, if you plan to withdraw high amounts monthly.

 

 

Tips to Make Your SWP Investment Strong

Choose hybrid equity funds, not pure equity or debt funds.

 

Use regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner.

 

Direct plans lack personalised advice and regular review.

 

MFDs with CFP credentials track markets and help in changes.

 

Avoid index funds. They don’t protect during market falls.

 

Active funds give better control and management.

 

Start small SWP first. Increase later if fund performs well.

 

Monitor performance every year with your planner.

 

Avoid withdrawing during deep market crashes.

 

Let the capital stay longer to recover and grow.

 

Rebalance every year. Shift gains to safe funds when needed.

 

 

Can SWP Be a Retirement Plan?

Yes, many retired investors use SWP.

 

It is a flexible, tax-efficient income source.

 

SWP protects principal if managed properly.

 

It also adjusts to your changing cash needs.

 

Unlike pension plans, you keep full control.

 

You can stop or increase SWP anytime.

 

You can leave the remaining amount for your family.

 

 

What Happens to Remaining Amount After SWP?

The remaining money stays in the mutual fund.

 

It continues to earn returns from the market.

 

You or your nominee can redeem the balance any time.

 

It is not locked. It stays liquid.

 

Capital not used becomes part of your legacy.

 

You can also use it to increase monthly SWP later.

 

Or withdraw lump sum for emergencies.

 

 

Finally

SWP is a very smart tool. It gives you peace, flexibility and tax benefits. But it needs careful planning. It is not risk-free. But with right fund, right amount and right advice, the risks reduce.

Use actively managed mutual funds. Avoid index funds. Avoid direct plans. Work with a Certified Financial Planner. They will guide, monitor and adjust when needed.

SWP is not just about monthly income. It is about freedom, control and dignity in retirement. Rs. 20 lakhs can give strong support for your goals.

Choose wisely. Plan clearly. Review regularly.

 

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