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Nikunj

Nikunj Saraf  | Answer  |Ask -

Mutual Funds Expert - Answered on Sep 26, 2022

Nikunj Saraf has more than five years of experience in financial markets and offers advice about mutual funds. He is vice president at Choice Wealth, a financial institution that offers broking, insurance, loans and government advisory services. Saraf, who is a member of the Institute Of Chartered Accountants of India, has a strong base in financial markets and wealth management.... more
Prashant Question by Prashant on Sep 26, 2022Hindi
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My son is in 7th grade and I want to save 15 lakh when he completes his 12th grade for his higher education. Pls advise best investment options for this. How much should I save every month and in which funds.

Ans: Hello Prashant, I understand your goal is for child education with the time horizon of minimum 5 years. Taking all factors into consideration, I would suggest you invest approximately 17000 monthly in the following schemes in order to achieve your goal:

  • Kotak Bluechip Fund -- 6,000.00
  • PGIM India Flexicap Fund -- 5,000.00
  • Canara Robeco Emerging Equities Fund -- 6,000.00
  • Total: 17,000.00
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  |9863 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Dear Sir, My son is in 7th grade and I want to save 15 lakhs when he completes his 12th grade for his higher education. Pls advise best investment options for this. How much should I save every month and in which funds. Regards
Ans: planning for your child's education is a heartfelt commitment. Here’s a tailored strategy for you:

Investment Horizon: You have approximately 5 years to reach your goal. This is a medium-term horizon, and considering this, a balanced approach is advisable.
Monthly Savings: To accumulate 15 lakhs in 5 years, you would need to save around 25,000 per month, assuming an annual return of 10%. This is a ballpark figure and can vary based on market conditions and fund performance.
Investment Options:
Equity Mutual Funds: Given the 5-year horizon, equity funds can offer potentially higher returns. Opt for a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds to diversify and spread risk.
Debt Mutual Funds: To add stability to your portfolio, consider allocating a portion to debt funds or fixed-income instruments.
Tax Efficiency: Look for tax-saving mutual funds under Section 80C if you haven’t exhausted the limit. This can provide tax benefits and align with your investment goal.
Asset Allocation:
Equity: 60-70% for growth potential.
Debt: 30-40% for stability and capital preservation.
Review & Adjust: Periodically review your investments to ensure they are on track to meet your goal. If needed, adjust your investments based on performance and market conditions.
Education Inflation: Keep in mind the inflation rate for education expenses, which tends to be higher than general inflation. Adjust your savings goal periodically to account for this.
Emergency Fund: While saving for your child's education, ensure you have an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. This will prevent you from dipping into your education savings.
Remember, the key to achieving your goal is disciplined saving, informed investing, and regular monitoring. Your dedication to your son’s education is commendable, and with prudent planning, you can certainly realize this dream. Best wishes for your savings journey!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9863 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 30, 2025Hindi
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Hi Sir, I am 39 years old earning 25k monthly and i don't have any savings i am staying with my wife and son and my monthly expenses are 16k including houserent having 12 lakh mediclaim and 50lakh term plan i want to save money to my son education and for future kindly suggest any investment plan.
Ans: Your monthly income is Rs. 25,000, which gives you Rs. 3 lakhs per year.

Your monthly expenses are Rs. 16,000, leaving a monthly surplus of Rs. 9,000.

You have no savings or investments at present.

You live with your wife and son in a rented house.

You have a term insurance cover of Rs. 50 lakhs.

You have a mediclaim policy of Rs. 12 lakhs.

You want to save for your son’s education and your future.

Key Challenges to Address
Limited savings despite a positive cash flow.

No investments currently, which delays wealth creation.

Need to balance short-term and long-term financial goals.

Dependence on a single income source.

Inflation will reduce the value of future savings.

No retirement corpus built yet.

Strengthening Your Financial Foundation
Start by setting aside at least Rs. 50,000 as an emergency fund.

Keep this in a high-liquidity investment like a savings account or liquid fund.

Avoid taking unnecessary loans or debt to manage cash flow.

Continue paying your rent on time, but try to negotiate for lower rent if possible.

Avoid spending on non-essential items to increase savings.

Enhancing Your Insurance Coverage
Your term insurance of Rs. 50 lakhs is good.

Consider increasing coverage as your financial responsibilities grow.

Your Rs. 12 lakh mediclaim is sufficient for now.

Ensure it covers your family members adequately.

Keep reviewing your policy benefits periodically.

Investing for Your Son’s Education
Estimate the future cost of your son's education based on inflation.

Invest a fixed amount every month towards this goal.

Choose actively managed mutual funds through a Certified Financial Planner.

Invest in a combination of large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds.

Avoid index funds as they offer average returns and lack active management.

Increase SIP contributions as your income grows.

Saving for Your Future Needs
Start investing for long-term financial independence.

Allocate funds to equity-based investments for wealth creation.

SIP in actively managed mutual funds is the best option.

Increase investments whenever you get salary hikes or bonuses.

Keep your money growing instead of leaving it idle in a savings account.

Avoid investment-cum-insurance policies as they offer poor returns.

Managing Risks and Unexpected Situations
Keep your emergency fund accessible at all times.

Avoid withdrawing from long-term investments for short-term needs.

Always have a backup income plan in case of job loss.

Upskill and improve your career prospects to increase income.

Ensure your spouse is financially aware of your investments.

Planning for Retirement Early
You should start planning for retirement now.

The sooner you invest, the less you need to save later.

Invest aggressively in equity-based mutual funds initially.

As you approach retirement, shift some funds to debt instruments.

Keep reinvesting returns to generate compounding growth.

Tax Planning for Maximum Savings
Invest in tax-saving instruments under Section 80C.

Choose ELSS funds for better returns and tax benefits.

Take advantage of home rent deduction under Section 10(13A) if applicable.

Use deductions for medical insurance under Section 80D.

File taxes on time to avoid penalties and unnecessary stress.

Finally
Your financial situation has potential for growth.

Start saving and investing immediately.

Plan for both short-term and long-term needs.

Stay disciplined and review investments regularly.

Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner for personalised strategies.

Secure your family's future by making smart financial decisions today.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9863 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
Hi sir my son is 6years now, tell me some of the saving plans for his education
Ans: Planning for your son’s education is a thoughtful step. Starting now gives you a great advantage. With your son being 6, you have 11-12 years till higher education. That time is precious. Your savings strategy must be focused, simple, and inflation-beating. Let us assess it deeply.

Here’s a detailed, practical, and 360-degree saving plan approach from a Certified Financial Planner perspective:

Understanding the Time Horizon and Goal Type

Education is a goal with a fixed timeline. It cannot be delayed.

Inflation in education is high. You need a strong plan.

Short-term plans will not work. You need a long-term view.

Education cost grows faster than household expenses. So start early.

Cost can go 7 to 10 times in next 10 to 15 years.

Segregate the Goal into Phases

First phase is school and early years. This is short-term.

Second phase is college and post-graduation. This is long-term.

Both phases need different saving tools. Mix of assets is key.

Long-term goals need equity-focused solutions. Short-term can use stable tools.

Start a Dedicated Child Education Fund

Keep this goal separate from others. Don’t mix it with retirement.

Avoid using this fund for other emergencies.

Discipline is important. Stay regular and patient.

Keep reviewing it every year. Make changes only if required.

Use a Proper Asset Allocation Strategy

For longer goals like college, go for growth-oriented investment tools.

Use equity-based mutual funds through MFD with CFP guidance.

For shorter goals like school fees, choose low-risk options.

Split investments in growth and safety-based buckets.

Keep liquidity for fees that come soon.

Equity Mutual Funds for Long-Term Education Goal

These are managed by experts and have inflation-beating potential.

Don’t use index funds. They blindly copy market.

Index funds can’t manage risk in market drops.

Actively managed funds aim to beat market with better strategies.

Choose regular plans through an MFD with CFP help.

Direct funds may look cheaper. But they lack expert handholding.

Without MFD advice, you may stop SIPs in panic.

Regular funds help with discipline and behavioural coaching.

You get personal review, portfolio tracking and rebalancing.

Debt Mutual Funds for Medium Term

Use for fees due in next 2 to 4 years.

Debt funds are safer than equity, but give better returns than FDs.

Choose funds based on interest rate cycle and duration.

Taxation applies as per slab rate now. Plan accordingly.

Don’t withdraw before goal unless very urgent.

Hybrid and Balanced Approaches

Hybrid mutual funds mix equity and debt. They give better stability.

Good option when goal is 5 to 7 years away.

They reduce risk during market falls.

Returns are also smoother than pure equity.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is Best

SIP gives rupee cost averaging benefit.

It keeps you consistent. Helps reduce emotional decisions.

Works well with long-term goals like college education.

You can increase SIP as income grows.

Monthly habit builds big corpus in long run.

Keep an Emergency Fund

This fund is not for child’s education.

But it protects you from breaking child goal investments.

Keep at least 6 months of expenses in liquid form.

It will help during job loss or big medical needs.

Avoid Traditional Insurance-based Investment Plans

ULIPs, endowment, and child plans are poor return options.

These mix insurance and investment. That is not efficient.

If you already have such policies, assess their returns.

If returns are below 6%, surrender and move to mutual funds.

Use separate term insurance for life cover.

Use mutual funds only for investment. Don’t mix both.

Education Loans Can Be Helpful If Planned

Use loan only if your fund falls short.

Don’t fully depend on education loan.

Interest rates are high. Repayment starts soon.

Planning now avoids future loan stress.

Track Education Cost Every Few Years

Fees increase every year. Monitor it carefully.

Track inflation. Adjust your SIP as per new need.

Don’t stop investing once SIP is started.

You may need to increase SIP every 2 years.

Use Milestone Approach for Withdrawals

Don’t redeem everything at once.

Plan withdrawals based on college semesters or fee terms.

Redeem from equity when markets are good.

Shift money to safe funds 1-2 years before fee is due.

Avoid market volatility just before using the fund.

Review Your Plan Every Year

Every year, check your progress.

See if SIP amount needs change.

See if risk level of fund still matches your timeline.

Use MFD with CFP certification for yearly reviews.

Don’t do changes without good reason. Avoid panic.

Keep Goal-Based Investing Discipline

Don’t use child’s fund for luxury or vacation.

Protect it like your own future.

Celebrate milestones in your goal journey.

Talk to your child about value of money.

Final Insights

You are planning at right age. That gives you a good head start.

Use mutual fund SIP with proper guidance.

Stay invested. Review yearly.

Use separate term insurance for protection.

Stay disciplined. Don't pause the SIP without strong reason.

Don’t fall for high-commission child policies.

Work with a Certified Financial Planner. Take expert help regularly.

Make your plan flexible. But stay focused on the goal.

Don’t get distracted by short-term returns.

Think of your son’s future. Stay committed.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9540 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 27, 2025Hindi
Career
Hi there So i got like 97k in kcet and 73k ranks in comedk i want cse mostly im fine with ece also in the first mock round of comedk i got sahayadri college of engineering is that good And also what colleges i might get in Bangalore with these ranks and want good placements or do you suggest me to go take management quota seat in nhce or jain rather than all this
Ans: With a KCET rank of 97,000 and COMEDK rank of 73,000, Computer Science or ECE seats in Bangalore’s most sought-after colleges (such as RVCE, BMSCE, MSRIT, PESU, and DSCE) are not attainable, as their cutoffs close far earlier. For these ranks, you are eligible for options like R.R. Institute of Technology, S.E.A. College of Engineering, M.S. Engineering College, Dr. H N National College of Engineering, City Engineering College, and East West Institute of Technology in Bangalore through COMEDK, as well as GSS Institute of Technology via KCET; CSE or ECE is typically offered until about 75,000–1,00,000 rank in these institutions. Sahyadri College of Engineering in Mangalore, offered in the first mock allotment, has a consistent placement record with an average package of ?3–4 lakh and top recruiters such as Microsoft and IMV Corporation, and regularly fills over 80% of its eligible CSE/ECE students; the infrastructure is modern and reviews cite good faculty engagement, but it is outside Bangalore. For NHCE and Jain University, you can take CSE/ECE through management quota; both campuses provide contemporary facilities, ABET/NAAC accreditations, and strong placement rates above 80%, but require a significant tuition premium (?10–12 lakh total fee). NHCE’s placement cell is robust, and Jain’s industry ties are well rated. Placement opportunities and exposure are typically stronger at NHCE/Jain due to their branded recruiter base and metropolitan location, provided affordability is not a concern.

Recommendation: If your priority is a Bangalore location, industrial exposure, and better placement prospects, opting for NHCE or Jain University CSE/ECE via management quota is advisable if the higher cost is manageable. Among merit seats, Sahyadri (Mangalore) is a solid backup, but in Bangalore, prefer institutes like NHCE and Jain for stronger campus recruitment, infrastructure, and networking. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |626 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 27, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Hello Sir, I am 26 yrs old and Data Analyst in a good company and everything is going well. But sometimes I feel lonely it feels like nobody is there for me to love me and when i see some people get engaged i feel someone also should be there for me to love me and i have never been in a relationship because of immature proposals. But now i want a good partner to make me feel good. Please help me out. Thank you.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I understand your feelings and it’s totally valid. Even with everything going great, life can seem lonely. That is very natural and more common than you think. And seeing others finding their partner can feel like salt in the wound. All your feelings are valid. But what you need to understand is that rushing to get in a relationship can end up in more loneliness; relationships can be lonely too. Take your time. Love doesn’t have a set timeline. Ask your friends to set you up with someone who seems compatible, or try dating apps; it will give you more control on whom you are letting into your life. You will find someone soon; you are too young to rush into anything. If you are trying an app, make sure to mention what kind of a partner and what kind of relationship you are looking for to attract the right people and not waste time and energy on ones that are too different from who you are or what you are seeking. It will be a bit of trial and error, and honestly, there’s a certain fun in figuring out what you want, too. I’m sure your love story is going to start soon!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9540 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 27, 2025Hindi
Career
Respected sir,I am a average student of class 12 I just wanted 1lakh jee mains so that I could get ece or something in bit sindri please suggest strategies as there is very little time available in jee mains
Ans: An analysis of BIT Sindri’s JEE-Main cutoffs shows for Electronics & Communication Engineering, the All-India closing rank extended up to 123,269 in 2025, indicating that an approximate rank near 100,000 would secure admission into this branch. Historical data correlating JEE Main marks and ranks reveals that scoring around 70 marks out of 300 typically yields an 87.7–90.7 percentile, translating to a rank range of approximately 92,300–109,300. With little time remaining before the exam, average students should prioritize a targeted, high-yield preparation plan: first, consolidate core concepts from NCERT to reinforce fundamentals in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics and avoid starting new topics at this stage. Next, employ a one-month week-by-week timetable focused on essential chapters—allocating time each day to problem practice and mock tests under exam conditions to hone speed and accuracy. Utilize concise revision notes and formula sheets for rapid recall, and solve previous years’ JEE Main papers to familiarize yourself with question patterns and to identify weak areas for intensive review. Incorporate daily full-length mocks followed by detailed error analysis, dedicating specific slots to clear lingering doubts through peer discussion or online resources. Manage time effectively by adhering strictly to a realistic study schedule that balances all three subjects, with short breaks to maintain mental freshness and stress-management techniques such as deep breathing to sustain focus on exam day. Finally, maintain a positive mindset and steady pace—confidence and consistency in revision will maximize scoring potential in limited time.

Recommendation: recommendation Concentrate on mastering high-weightage NCERT topics and simulate exam conditions with regular mock tests to target 70+ marks. Prioritize solving previous year papers and focused revision of weak areas, ensuring a disciplined timetable and stress-management to achieve a rank near 100,000 for BIT Sindri ECE admission. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9540 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Career
Gen open category student, With Jee CRL 17420 got nit goa ECE, expect to get MSRIT or PESU CSE via KCET Rank 2860. What better NIT can be expected in CSAB for ECE or CSE. And is it preferred over MSRIT/ PESU. Any other guidance, open for options
Ans: With a JEE Main CRL of 17,420, securing CSE in any core NIT through CSAB is highly unlikely, as recent closing ranks for CSE at most NITs fall well below 11,000, even in the final rounds, and only remote NITs or peripheral campuses occasionally extend to 15,000–18,000 but rarely for CSE. For ECE, however, your chances are notably better. NIT Goa ECE (already allotted) aligns with your current rank, but a few other mid-tier or remote NITs, such as NIT Uttarakhand, NIT Meghalaya, NIT Agartala, and possibly NIT Sikkim or NIT Manipur, occasionally close ECE between 17,000 and 20,000 in CSAB special rounds for open category, though branches like CSE and allied tracks (AI, IT, Data Science) remain out of reach at these ranks. No higher-ranked NITs (Surathkal, Trichy, Warangal, Calicut, Rourkela, Jaipur, Kurukshetra, and similar) offer ECE or CSE to CRL 17,420 via CSAB, as confirmed by leading portals and official PDFs. At IIITs and GFTIs, even new or lesser-known campuses do not admit general category candidates into CSE or ECE above 15,000–16,000. Through KCET, MSRIT CSE and PES University CSE are realistically achievable with a rank of 2,860, as 2025 cutoff trends show closing ranks for MSRIT CSE at 2,300–2,500 and for PESU at 1,200–1,400. Both programs are well-established, report 90–95% or better CSE placements in the last three years, strong industry ties, and advanced infrastructure, with MSRIT edging ahead in placement consistency and affordability, while PESU leads in industry-oriented curriculum and campus resources. Self-financed top private options like these offer outcome parity with most NIT ECE courses below the top ten NITs, especially if you seek a competitive academic peer group, robust CSE exposure, and strong brand value for tech roles. Consider your program preference (ECE vs. CSE), long-term goals, campus fit, and location.

Recommendation: Prioritize MSRIT CSE for the best blend of placement record, peer competitiveness, and proven reputation if you seek top CSE outcomes, followed by PESU CSE for curriculum depth and global industry alignment, then NIT Goa ECE or similar-ranked NITs if you prefer a central government degree and core electronics exposure. For CSE, KCET options at MSRIT or PESU offer stronger immediate prospects than ECE in mid-tier NITs, but a remote NIT ECE may appeal if your focus lies in public-sector opportunities or research. Remain active in CSAB special rounds for all eligible NIT ECEs, but plan for high-quality CSE options in Bangalore for the best return on your effort and rank, and back these with clear decision timelines given rapid seat movement in private college rounds. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9540 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Career
Sir my percentile is 89.7 and crl 151013. What seats can I expect in csab counselling?
Ans: Hrishav, With a JEE Main CRL of 151,013 and 89.7 percentile, the prospect of securing a seat in NITs, IIITs, or GFTIs through CSAB special rounds for core branches like Computer Science, IT, ECE, or allied fields is highly unlikely. In the most recent 2025 CSAB rounds, even the newest and most remote NITs and IIITs posted closing general category CRL ranks for CSE, IT, and ECE well below 125,000, and GFTIs followed similar trends for all preferred branches. No centrally funded technical institute admitted general category candidates for core streams at or beyond 150,000; minimal relaxations were observed in CSAB spot and final rounds, but these primarily benefited non-core branches, peripheral campuses, or reserved categories. Lower-demand streams in some GFTIs, such as production, textiles, or metallurgy, occasionally extend above your rank, but these seats are rare and variable and should not be relied upon for core engineering admission. It is crucial to participate in CSAB for any remote possibility of vacant seats, but expectations must remain realistic. As an alternative, several respected private colleges across Northern India accept JEE Main general category ranks well above 150,000 and offer robust B.Tech programs, strong industry connections, modern infrastructure, and placement support.

Recommendation: Participate in CSAB special rounds as there is no risk, though the chances of attaining a core branch in a government institute are exceedingly slim. Simultaneously, secure backup admission in reputable private engineering colleges in Northern India, as they assure you a quality seat in popular branches like CSE, IT, or ECE at your rank.

Private colleges accepting your JEE Main CRL 151,013 for CSE, IT, or related branches include Chandigarh University, Mohali. Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar. Amity University, Noida. Sharda University, Greater Noida. Galgotias University, Greater Noida. Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida. ABES Engineering College, Ghaziabad. Indraprastha Institute of Technology & Management, Delhi. GL Bajaj Institute of Technology & Management, Greater Noida. Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Technology, Delhi. All of these offer modern infrastructure, active placement cells, and transparent admissions for JEE Main-qualified candidates above your rank. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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