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60-Year-Old Asks: How Long Should I Invest 1 Lakh in MF for Stable Income?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9459 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 23, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Jul 23, 2024Hindi
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I am 60 years old. I have a SIP account of 2000 rs. Which i put every month. If i put 1 lakh as fixed. For how long i need to keep it in MF. And how much income will i get.

Ans: Your SIP of Rs 2000 per month is a good start. Investing regularly builds discipline and creates wealth over time.

Lump Sum Investment
You have Rs 1 lakh for a fixed investment. This is a strong move towards securing your financial future.

Investment Duration
To determine the duration, consider your financial goals. If you aim for retirement, a longer period is beneficial.

5 Years: Moderate returns, suitable for short-term goals.
10 Years: Higher returns, good for medium-term goals.
15 Years or More: Maximum returns, ideal for long-term goals like retirement.
Expected Returns
Mutual funds can offer varying returns. Historical data suggests:

Equity Funds: 10-15% per annum.
Debt Funds: 6-8% per annum.
Hybrid Funds: 8-12% per annum.
Assessing Risk
Understanding your risk tolerance is crucial.

Low Risk: Debt funds are stable and safer.
Moderate Risk: Hybrid funds balance equity and debt.
High Risk: Equity funds offer higher returns but are volatile.
Diversification
Diversifying your investment reduces risk.

Equity Funds: Invest in multiple sectors.
Debt Funds: Choose a mix of short-term and long-term bonds.
Hybrid Funds: Combine both equity and debt.
Inflation and Tax Considerations
Inflation impacts your returns. Equity funds generally outpace inflation.

Equity Funds: Taxed at 10% after one year.
Debt Funds: Taxed based on your income slab if held for less than three years. After three years, taxed at 20% with indexation benefits.
Hybrid Funds: Tax treatment varies based on equity and debt proportion.
Regular Monitoring
Regularly review your investments. Adjust your portfolio based on market conditions and personal goals.

Professional Guidance
A Certified Financial Planner can offer personalized advice. They help in aligning your investments with your financial goals.

Final Insights
Investing Rs 2000 monthly in SIPs and Rs 1 lakh in mutual funds is wise.

Stay Invested: Longer durations yield better returns.
Diversify: Spread your investments across different funds.
Monitor: Regularly check your investments and adjust as needed.
Seek Guidance: A Certified Financial Planner can provide tailored advice.
Invest wisely to secure your future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9459 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - May 01, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir, I am PRASAD 59 yrs. I am investing in MF @ 50 k pm for the last 3 years and ramped up it to 85 k pm for an year. Accumulated about 35 lakhs. I am a private employee and don't have any retirement benefits.I own a flat, don't have any loans. I want to continue to work for 3 more years and and continue the the SIP. To get a monthly income of 75 k, how much should I do SIP for next 3 years.
Ans: Hello Prasad,

Your dedication to securing your financial future is commendable. Let's devise a personalized SIP strategy to ensure a monthly income of ?75,000 post-retirement, considering your current investments and timeline.

Evaluating Your Current Situation
Currently, you've accumulated ?35 Lakhs through systematic investment plans (SIPs) in mutual funds over the past few years. Additionally, you own a flat, and being debt-free is a significant advantage in your financial journey.

Assessing Retirement Income Needs
To generate a monthly income of ?75,000 post-retirement, we need to calculate the corpus required to sustain this income stream. Considering a safe withdrawal rate of around 4% per annum, the corpus needed would be approximately ?2.25 Crores.

Calculating SIP Contribution for the Next 3 Years
With a current corpus of ?35 Lakhs, and aiming for a total corpus of ?2.25 Crores in 3 years, we need to determine the additional SIP contribution required to bridge this gap.

Utilizing SIP Calculator Tools
Using SIP calculators available online or consulting with your Certified Financial Planner, we can ascertain the monthly SIP amount needed to reach the desired corpus. Factors such as expected rate of return, investment horizon, and risk tolerance will influence this calculation.

Importance of Regular Review and Adjustment
Regularly reviewing your investment portfolio and adjusting your SIP contributions based on changes in income, expenses, and market conditions is crucial. Your Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized guidance to ensure your investments remain aligned with your goals.

Your proactive approach to retirement planning is admirable. By continuing your disciplined savings habit and seeking professional advice, you're well-positioned to achieve your desired retirement income. Remember, consistency and patience are key to long-term financial success.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9459 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

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Dear sir, I am 25 Years old, I have a plan to invest in SIP /MUTUAL FUND 20000 per month for 20 years. I want to know the amount i get at the time of my age 45 years. and could you suggest me the profitable for my aim and retired...
Ans: Congratulations on planning to invest Rs. 20,000 monthly in SIPs for 20 years! Starting early and being consistent are key to building substantial wealth. Here’s a detailed guide to help you achieve your financial goals.

Understanding the Power of SIP
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly in mutual funds. This disciplined approach has several benefits:

Rupee Cost Averaging: Buying units at varying prices averages out market volatility.
Compounding: Long-term investments significantly grow due to compound interest.
Disciplined Saving: Regular investments instil financial discipline.
Projected Returns
Investing Rs. 20,000 monthly for 20 years can yield substantial returns. Assuming an average annual return of 12% (common for equity mutual funds), here’s a rough estimate of your investment growth:

Investment Period: 20 years
Total Investment: Rs. 48 lakhs
Estimated Returns: Approx. Rs. 1.5 to 2 crores
This estimate assumes the power of compounding and market performance over a long period.

Diversifying Your Investments
Equity Mutual Funds
Equity funds are ideal for long-term goals due to their potential for higher returns. Diversify your investment across:

Large-Cap Funds: Invest in established companies for stability.
Mid-Cap Funds: Target growing companies for higher returns.
Small-Cap Funds: Invest in emerging companies for aggressive growth.
Hybrid Funds
Hybrid funds combine equity and debt investments, balancing risk and return. They can be suitable if you prefer a moderate risk approach.

Aggressive Hybrid Funds: Higher equity exposure for growth.
Conservative Hybrid Funds: Higher debt exposure for stability.
Choosing the Right Funds
Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have professional managers aiming to outperform the market. They adjust the portfolio based on market conditions, potentially yielding higher returns.

Regular Plans with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Investing through a CFP provides several benefits:

Expert Advice: Tailored investment strategies.
Portfolio Management: Regular reviews and adjustments.
Risk Management: Balancing risk according to your profile.
Monitoring and Adjusting Your Portfolio
Regularly review your portfolio with your CFP. Adjust your investments based on:

Performance: Shift funds from underperforming to outperforming schemes.
Goals: Update your investment strategy as your goals evolve.
Market Conditions: Rebalance to align with changing market dynamics.
Risk Management
Diversification
Diversifying across various funds and asset classes reduces risk. It ensures that poor performance in one area doesn’t significantly impact your overall portfolio.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund equivalent to 6-12 months of expenses. This ensures liquidity for unforeseen circumstances, preventing the need to liquidate your investments.

Tax Efficiency
Mutual funds offer tax advantages:

Equity Funds: Long-term capital gains (held over one year) are taxed at 10% beyond Rs. 1 lakh per annum.
Debt Funds: Long-term capital gains (held over three years) are taxed at 20% with indexation benefits.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Over-Reliance on High-Risk Investments
Balance high-risk, high-reward investments with stable options to protect your capital.

Ignoring Inflation
Ensure your investments outpace inflation. Equity funds, despite short-term volatility, usually beat inflation over the long term.

Not Having a Clear Plan
Stick to a well-structured plan. Regular reviews and adjustments help stay aligned with your financial goals.

Conclusion
By investing Rs. 20,000 monthly in a diversified mix of mutual funds, you can achieve significant financial growth. A disciplined approach through SIPs, guided by a Certified Financial Planner, will ensure you meet your financial goals. Regular monitoring and adjustments will keep your portfolio on track.

Starting early and staying consistent will help you build a substantial corpus for your future. Best of luck with your investments!

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9459 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 16, 2024Hindi
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I am 48 years, Sir please suggest me what is the monthly MF sip investment details. From which I will get 1cr. after 10 years.
Ans: It's commendable that you are planning for your future. Setting a goal of Rs. 1 crore in 10 years is ambitious. Let’s break down how to achieve this through mutual funds.

Benefits of SIPs
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are effective. They allow you to invest small amounts regularly. This helps in averaging the cost and reducing the impact of market volatility. SIPs also instill financial discipline.

Importance of Goal-Based Planning
It's crucial to align your SIP with your financial goals. We need to assess the expected rate of return. Typically, mutual funds provide returns between 10-12% annually. However, past performance does not guarantee future results.

Calculating the SIP Amount
Given your goal and time frame, you need a rough estimate. For a target of Rs. 1 crore in 10 years, a rough SIP amount would be around Rs. 50,000 per month. This is based on a conservative estimated annual return of 12%.

Selecting the Right Mutual Funds
Actively managed funds can be beneficial. These funds are managed by expert fund managers. They aim to outperform the market. This can provide better returns compared to index funds.

Advantages of Actively Managed Funds:
Professional management by experts
Potential for higher returns
Flexibility in investment strategy
Disadvantages of Index Funds:
Limited potential for outperformance
Rigid investment strategy
No active management
Avoiding Direct Funds
Direct funds might seem attractive due to lower costs. However, they lack the guidance of a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). Regular funds provide valuable advice and support. This helps in making informed investment decisions.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds:
No professional advice
Potential for uninformed decisions
Lack of strategic adjustments
Benefits of Regular Funds through CFP:
Expert guidance
Regular portfolio review
Strategic adjustments based on market conditions
Assessing Risk Tolerance
Your risk tolerance plays a significant role. At 48, balancing risk and growth is vital. A diversified portfolio can mitigate risks. This ensures stability while aiming for your financial goals.

Monitoring and Adjusting Your Portfolio
Regular reviews are essential. The market is dynamic, and your portfolio needs adjustments. A CFP can assist in rebalancing your investments. This keeps your portfolio aligned with your goals.

Tax Efficiency
Mutual funds offer tax benefits. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) on equity funds are tax-free up to Rs. 1 lakh annually. Proper tax planning enhances your returns.

Financial Discipline
Staying committed to your SIP is crucial. Market fluctuations can be unsettling. However, maintaining discipline is key to achieving your target.

Additional Considerations
Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage. This protects your investments in unforeseen circumstances. Also, keep an emergency fund to handle unexpected expenses.

Final Insights
Investing in mutual funds through SIPs is a wise decision. With careful planning and regular reviews, you can achieve your goal of Rs. 1 crore in 10 years.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9459 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 29, 2025Hindi
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I am 34 year old male earning 80k per month .home loan emi 20k..ssy for my 3 year old daughter monthly 10k... investing in ppf monthly 10k...sip 2.5k monthly..nps 3.5 k monthly gold etf 3k monthly.. outstanding home loan amount 14lakhs...now I have lumpsum of 5laks is it wise decision to partly pay my home loan or to invest in mutual fund to create wealth...next question the investments I am making today is enough to secure my daughter future for her studies and marriage or do I need to change anything pls guide on that ...I also have a term insurance
Ans: You are already making disciplined efforts.
Now let’s look at your situation from all angles.

Your Current Investment Snapshot
Salary: Rs 80,000 per month

Home Loan EMI: Rs 20,000

SSY: Rs 10,000 monthly for daughter

PPF: Rs 10,000 monthly

NPS: Rs 3,500 monthly

SIP (Mutual Funds): Rs 2,500 monthly

Gold ETF: Rs 3,000 monthly

Term Insurance: Already in place

Lump sum: Rs 5 lakh in hand

Home Loan Outstanding: Rs 14 lakh

You are saving around Rs 29,000 each month outside of EMI.
This is a solid start.

Should You Part Pay Your Home Loan?
Pros of part prepayment now:

You save a lot of interest over time

You reduce your EMI burden for future

It brings peace of mind and security

Good if job stability is uncertain

Cons of part prepayment now:

You lose opportunity to earn better returns

You reduce liquidity buffer in hand

You miss compounding benefit of mutual funds

Now, the rate of home loan is around 8–9%.
Good mutual funds can give better long-term returns than this.

But you don’t have an emergency fund right now.
That is more important than prepaying loans or investing.

What You Should Do With the Rs 5 Lakhs
Split the amount into 3 purposes:

1. Emergency fund: Keep Rs 1.5 lakhs in savings account or FD

This gives peace during job loss or medical emergency

Use only during true need

2. Mutual fund investment: Use Rs 2.5 lakhs for long-term growth

Choose actively managed equity mutual funds

Avoid index funds and ETFs

Index funds copy the market.

They don’t protect during market crash.

Actively managed funds are guided by experts.

These adapt to market changes quickly.

3. Loan prepayment: Pay Rs 1 lakh to reduce principal

Ask bank to apply it toward principal

This lowers your interest burden

It also shortens tenure quietly

This split will give you balance between safety and growth.

Is Your Current Investment Enough for Daughter?
SSY Rs 10,000 monthly is a strong start.
This will mature when she turns 21.
Use this only for marriage or backup.

But for education, add mutual funds.

Higher education costs will go up

Abroad studies may cost Rs 50–80 lakhs

SSY is not enough alone

Add SIPs for education goal

Increase SIP gradually to Rs 5,000–6,000 per month.
Invest through MFD with CFP certification only.
Don’t go for direct plans.
Direct funds seem cheap, but offer no personalised advice.
You miss rebalancing and asset allocation help.

Regular funds with MFD offer better tracking and handholding.

Your Retirement Needs and Strategy
At 34 years, you have 26 years left for retirement.
Current NPS is only Rs 3,500 per month.
You need to grow it to at least Rs 10,000 monthly over time.
Also increase PPF after SSY ends.

Mutual funds are your main wealth builders.
Don't rely on Gold ETF alone.
Gold works for protection—not growth.
Limit gold allocation to 10–15% only.

Build a retirement corpus of Rs 2–3 crore minimum.

Suggestions to Improve Further
Increase SIP every year by 10–15%

Shift lump sum to mutual funds in 3–5 instalments

Use STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) for that

Review goals once every 6 months

Track fund performance yearly with MFD help

Use FD only for emergency and short goals

Avoid ULIPs, endowment, or combo plans

Keep all insurance and investment separate.

Avoid These Mistakes
Don’t invest in direct mutual funds

Don’t use index funds blindly

Don’t invest more in gold than required

Don’t delay term insurance update when salary grows

Don’t stop SIPs during market dips

Don’t ignore inflation while planning daughter’s future

Discipline + Review = True Growth

Final Insights
You are doing great for your age and income.
Your habits are already strong.
Now add clarity, balance, and regular review.

Keep 3 goals separate:

Daughter's education (SIP + MF only)

Daughter’s marriage (SSY can be used)

Your retirement (NPS + MF + PPF)

Don’t mix goals and investments.
Grow SIPs as salary increases.
Keep emergency fund always ready.
Review with a certified financial planner every year.

Rs 5 lakhs should be used wisely—part for safety, part for growth.
That’s how wealth is built and family protected.

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9459 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 05, 2025Hindi
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Sir, want to make a lumpsum investment around 10 lakhs.My aim to have atleast 18-22%XIRR in coming 15-20 yrs.which funds with having low nav , high Alpha and H ratio should I choose??
Ans: You have clearly thought through your investment expectations. It is good to see that you are aiming for long-term wealth building. Now let’s analyse and guide you in detail with a 360-degree approach.

Clarity on Your Investment Objective

You have Rs.10 lakh to invest as lump sum.

Your goal is 18–22% XIRR over 15–20 years.

You are seeking low NAV funds with high alpha and high Sharpe Ratio.

The desire for strong long-term returns is absolutely fair.
However, the expectations of 18–22% XIRR consistently over two decades need thoughtful evaluation.

Understanding Long-Term Equity Return Expectations

Historically, good equity funds give 12–15% XIRR over long-term.

18–22% range is aggressive and may not be consistent.

Equity markets are volatile. They need time and patience.

Over 15–20 years, compounding works well.
But expecting 18–22% every year may lead to disappointment.
It is better to expect 12–15% XIRR. Anything above that is bonus.

The Truth About Low NAV Funds

Many investors think low NAV means cheap or better value.

But NAV is not like share price.

NAV shows fund’s per unit value. That’s it.

A fund with Rs.10 NAV is not cheaper than one with Rs.200 NAV.
What matters is how the fund grows, not where it starts.

So, do not choose funds just based on low NAV.
Instead, focus on the fund’s performance, consistency, risk-adjusted return, and fund house strength.

What Does High Alpha and Sharpe Ratio Mean

High alpha means fund is beating its benchmark well.

Sharpe ratio shows return vs. risk taken by the fund.

Higher Sharpe ratio means better risk-adjusted return.

So yes, choosing funds with high alpha and Sharpe ratio makes sense.
But they should be consistently high over 5–10 years.
One-year or short-term alpha is not reliable.

You should also see downside protection, past bear market behaviour, and fund manager continuity.

Important Factors for Fund Selection

Instead of chasing only metrics, look at:

Long-term performance: minimum 7–10 years history

Rolling returns: consistency over time, not point-to-point

Fund manager’s experience and track record

Sector diversification and portfolio quality

Volatility and risk control ability of the fund

A fund with lower return but stable and consistent is better than a risky high return fund.

Why Not Index Funds

Some investors suggest index funds due to low cost.
But index funds just copy the index. They don’t beat the market.

Disadvantages of index funds:

No downside protection in falling markets

Returns only match the index, never exceed

Blind allocation to sectors and stocks

Not suitable if you seek 18–22% XIRR

In contrast, actively managed funds aim to beat the index.
They adapt based on market trends, sector shifts, and economic changes.

With proper selection and regular tracking, active funds can deliver alpha.
So if your goal is high XIRR, avoid index funds.

Why Not Direct Plans

Some investors invest in direct mutual funds without guidance.
But direct funds lack personalised support, rebalancing, and review.

Disadvantages of direct funds:

No one helps track, switch, or reallocate your money

No behaviour control during market corrections

Investors may panic or make wrong decisions

Returns may suffer due to wrong timing

Instead, invest via regular plans under a Certified Financial Planner.
You get portfolio monitoring, expert guidance, and emotional support.
This helps you stay disciplined for 15–20 years.

The cost difference is worth the value added.
A small fee ensures long-term confidence and correct allocation.

Best Strategy for Your Rs.10 Lakh Lump Sum

Since you are investing a lump sum, avoid full one-shot exposure into equity.
Even though horizon is long, entering gradually is better.

Here is a better path:

Step 1: Park Rs.10 lakh in a suitable ultra short term or low duration fund

Step 2: Use STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) to move money to equity over 12–18 months

Step 3: Choose 2–3 well-diversified active equity mutual funds

Step 4: Monitor every year with a Certified Financial Planner

Step 5: Rebalance based on market cycle and fund performance

This phased entry reduces market timing risk.
Also gives better average buying cost.

Which Type of Funds to Choose

Avoid small cap or sectoral funds for lump sum.
They are volatile and need tactical allocation.

Instead, select:

Large & Mid Cap Funds

Flexi Cap Funds

Focused Equity Funds

Multi Asset Funds (for some balance)

These fund categories give:

Diversification

Good upside

Controlled downside

Flexibility for fund manager

With long-term investing, these fund styles build wealth steadily.
They also protect better during market falls.

You don’t need too many funds.
Just 2–3 high-quality ones are enough.

Things to Watch as You Invest

Always link your investment to goal, not just return.

Monitor the funds every year for consistency.

Avoid churning. Let compounding do the work.

Don’t react emotionally to short-term falls.

Stay invested fully for 15–20 years.

Avoid temptation to switch often.
Discipline and patience bring more return than constant change.

MF Tax Rules to Keep in Mind

When you exit your equity mutual funds:

If held for over 1 year:

LTCG above Rs.1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%

If sold within 1 year:

STCG taxed at 20%

Plan your redemptions properly.
Spread withdrawals over years to save tax.
Avoid redeeming in panic.

Role of Certified Financial Planner in Long-Term Investing

To reach 18–22% return, fund selection is not enough.
You need portfolio design, rebalancing, emotional support, and tax planning.

This is where a Certified Financial Planner helps:

Suggest best funds for your profile

Plan STP for smooth entry

Review and rebalance every year

Prevent emotional exits

Track performance vs. your goal

Provide goal-based reports

A guided long-term approach works better than random investing.
Your planner acts like your investment partner.

Mistakes to Avoid

Please avoid the below traps:

Don’t invest full lump sum in equity at once

Don’t choose funds based on low NAV

Don’t focus only on return, ignore risk

Don’t pick direct funds without expert help

Don’t expect 20% yearly return every year

Don’t react to market noise

Don’t keep changing funds too often

Avoiding mistakes is as important as choosing good funds.

What You Should Do Now

Decide on your 15–20 year goal clearly

Park Rs.10 lakh in short-term fund

Start STP into 2–3 strong equity mutual funds

Choose funds with high alpha, Sharpe, and 10-year performance

Avoid index and direct plans

Invest via regular plan through Certified Financial Planner

Review every year with professional help

Stay invested for long term patiently

Expect 12–15% XIRR, not 22%

Let compounding work quietly

Finally

Your intent to invest long-term is excellent.
A Rs.10 lakh investment over 20 years can grow substantially.
Even at 12–15% XIRR, it can create good wealth.
Stay disciplined, invest right, and follow a guided path.
Choose actively managed funds, and avoid risky shortcuts.
Returns will follow when strategy is sound.

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9459 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
what should i do i have having 2 lakh debt and no source of income and not having any savings or money in my hand how i manage to pay them and no friends and other people are helping me to pay
Ans: It needs a clear and strong action plan.
Right now, your goal is simple—get stable, earn income, and repay.

Let’s look at it from all angles.

Accept the Situation Without Blame
You have Rs 2 lakh loan.

No income. No savings. No support.

This can feel heavy. But it can be handled.

You are not alone. Many have faced this and come out.

You must now focus only on practical steps.

Stop the Debt From Growing
Talk to the lender immediately.

Ask for a pause on EMI or lower interest.

Don’t delay. Hiding will worsen your situation.

If it is credit card debt, avoid minimum payments.

Ask for settlement option if needed.

Document every conversation with lender.

Try converting high interest into low EMI if possible.

No More Borrowing Anymore
Don’t borrow from anyone now.

Don’t take payday or app loans.

Don’t give in to online loan offers.

They increase your stress and risk.

Break this debt chain now.

Focus only on earning and repaying what’s due.

Start a Job or Work Immediately
Even small income is better than no income.

Start with temporary, part-time or gig work.

Choose food delivery, customer care, retail helper, warehouse, or typing jobs.

Try home tuitions, ironing services, cooking support, packaging work.

Check Swiggy, Zomato, Blinkit, UrbanClap, Taskmo, Amazon Flex.

Try YouTube channels or blogs for zero-investment side income ideas.

Any job is a good start.
From zero, even Rs 500 a day is a win.

Sell What You Can Spare
Check if you have any small gold jewellery.

Sell unwanted gadgets, phone, speakers, old laptop.

Sell furniture or clothes you don’t need.

Use Facebook Marketplace, OLX, Quickr.

Even Rs 10,000–15,000 can give relief.

Use this money to pay part of debt.
This builds lender confidence.

Join Government Free Skilling Programs
Join PMKVY (Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana).

Many courses are free with placement help.

Learn data entry, tailoring, mobile repair, electrician, housekeeping.

Check nearest govt ITI or District Skill Center.

One certificate can get a Rs 8K–15K/month job.
That’s enough to begin repaying.

Reduce Your Monthly Costs
Shift to very low-cost living for next 6–12 months.

Ask relatives for temporary stay if possible.

Don’t eat out. Avoid transport costs.

Use ration shops and free food centers.

Borrow clothes, avoid buying new ones.

Don’t buy on EMI or credit.

Every rupee saved helps you rebuild.

Handle Mental Pressure Calmly
Financial crisis hurts confidence.

Take daily walks. Practice deep breathing.

Write down 3 actions every morning.

Focus only on that.

Your mental health is your real asset.
Strong mind = strong comeback.

Free Help You Can Try
Approach NGOs giving emergency help.

Try Milaap, GiveIndia, Ketto for verified assistance.

Join local self-help groups.

Ask old teachers, colleagues, or ex-employers.

Even strangers can support if you ask with clarity.

Once You Earn, Follow This Plan
Start by saving Rs 500 monthly.

Keep Rs 5,000–10,000 as emergency fund.

Pay Rs 1,000–2,000 monthly to lender.

Once income stabilizes, pay faster.

After clearing debt:

Start SIPs through certified MFD only.

Never invest in direct mutual funds.

Don’t use index funds or ETFs.

Actively managed mutual funds give better results.

Use regular funds with MFD advice.

Invest for future—not under panic.

Don’t Invest in ULIPs or Policies
If someone sells you insurance + investment plan, avoid it.

They are high-cost and give low returns.

No LIC, ULIP, or endowment for now.

Just focus on savings and mutual fund SIPs.

You need simple, flexible plans, not fancy products.

Don’t Fall for Quick Money Scams
Don’t try crypto or forex for quick returns.

Don’t join MLM or chain business schemes.

Don’t pay anyone who promises fast loan approval.

Anything that looks magical will take your money away.

Final Insights
You are strong for asking for help.

Many fear to face it. You are not hiding.

Your comeback will begin with action—not emotion.

Today is your first day of financial rebuilding.

You will repay the Rs 2 lakh. Slowly but surely.

You will build Rs 5 lakh in next 3–5 years.

And more after that.

Keep this plan close. Follow it daily.
You will rise again—step by step.

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

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8247 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 08, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir,I am getting spit ece and dj sanghvi cse.Which will be the best option for me?.In both the colleges I am getting tfws seat through mhtcet
Ans: Both Sardar Patel Institute of Technology's Electronics & Communication Engineering and DJ Sanghvi College of Engineering's Computer Science & Engineering are offered at NAAC-accredited institutions with strong infrastructure, qualified faculty, industry-linked internships and dedicated placement cells. SPIT Mumbai's ECE program benefits from autonomous status, advanced VLSI and communication labs, mandatory six-month internships and achieved an 82–95% placement consistency over three years. DJ Sanghvi's CSE program holds NAAC A-grade accreditation, features specialized AI/ML and software development labs, semester-long internships and recorded a 96% CSE placement rate with an average package of ?10.78 LPA in 2023-24. Both institutions offer TFWS seats for eligible Maharashtra state candidates with family income below ?8 lakh, providing complete tuition fee waiver throughout the four-year duration. The scheme reserves 5% of total sanctioned seats as supernumerary seats, ensuring cost-effective quality education.

recommendation
For superior software development opportunities and higher placement consistency, recommendation is DJ Sanghvi CSE under TFWS. If specialized electronics and communication training with strong hardware industry exposure appeals more, choose SPIT ECE under TFWS. Both options provide excellent value through the tuition fee waiver scheme. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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