Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 04, 2025

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
Prasenjit Question by Prasenjit on Jul 13, 2025Hindi
Money

I have debt of 16 laks , i have net income 40000, how can i manage to recover debt

Ans: You have shown good awareness by taking charge of your financial situation. Many avoid talking about debt. But by taking action, you are already ahead. You can recover and build again. Let us review everything practically and guide you step-by-step.

» Understand the Total Picture First

– You have Rs.16 lakh total debt.
– Monthly net income is Rs.40,000.
– That’s tight, but manageable with a disciplined plan.
– You may have multiple loans or credit dues.
– Check the exact EMI and interest rate of each one.
– List each loan clearly with its outstanding and rate.
– Only then you can take right decisions.

» Classify the Type of Loans

– Split debts into high-interest and low-interest types.
– High-interest ones are personal loans and credit card dues.
– Low-interest ones are home or education loans.
– High-interest loans damage your cash flow the most.
– So we attack those first with speed.

» Avoid Paying Minimum Due on Credit Cards

– Paying minimum due will trap you longer.
– Interest keeps adding on balance.
– Credit cards charge 36% to 42% annually.
– Always try to pay full amount or shift this loan.

» Stop Taking New Loans or EMI Buys

– Don’t take more loans unless it’s to consolidate.
– Avoid shopping with EMI plans.
– It will only make your cash tighter.
– You need complete control over every rupee now.

» Create a Survival Budget

– Your income is Rs.40,000 per month.
– You must fix expenses at Rs.25,000 or below.
– Cut down all luxury spends.
– Avoid eating out or travel expenses.
– Rent, groceries, transport, school fees only.
– Balance Rs.15,000 goes only for debt clearance.

» Follow the Snowball or Avalanche Method

– Snowball method: clear the smallest loan first.
– Avalanche method: clear the highest interest loan first.
– Avalanche gives faster relief in total interest.
– Choose one and stick to it with discipline.

» Explore One-Time Settlement Options

– If you have credit card dues, try a settlement.
– Some banks allow part payment and waive balance.
– But it affects your credit score.
– Use this only for dead-end cases.
– Always take this in writing from the bank.

» Take Support from Family if Comfortable

– Sometimes a family member can lend interest-free.
– This helps reduce pressure.
– But only borrow if you can repay on time.
– Keep this as a backup, not default plan.

» Consider a Debt Consolidation Loan

– Take one big loan to close all small ones.
– Use it to pay off costlier loans.
– This gives one EMI and lower rate.
– Choose only if you get better terms.
– And if you won’t increase spending again.

» Sell Idle Assets If Available

– Any gold lying unused?
– Old vehicle, gadgets, or other items?
– Sell and use funds to reduce loans.
– It’s better than paying 20% interest annually.
– Don’t hold on to things that don’t earn.

» Avoid Real Estate to Solve This

– Buying property now is wrong timing.
– It increases stress and reduces flexibility.
– You may get stuck with EMI and rent.
– Clearing debt first gives mental and financial space.

» Don’t Depend on Index Funds or Market Trading

– Index funds look simple, but not suitable now.
– They give average returns without any protection.
– You need growth with care.
– Active mutual funds are better when you recover.

» Invest Only When Debt is Under Control

– No investment till basic debts are cleared.
– First aim is zero high-interest loans.
– Then slowly create SIP in mutual funds.
– This way you can build without pressure.

» Protect Your Credit Score

– Even during debt, pay EMIs on time.
– Never delay more than 30 days.
– This protects your CIBIL score.
– You will need this later when you grow.

» Avoid LIC and ULIP Investments for Now

– If you already have LIC or ULIP, check surrender value.
– These plans are rigid and low-growth.
– If allowed, surrender and reduce your loans.
– After debt is cleared, invest fresh in mutual funds.
– Don’t mix insurance and investment together.

» Don’t Buy Annuities or Insurance Plans for Now

– You must first become debt-free.
– Annuities give very low returns.
– Insurance plans eat liquidity.
– Keep your cash flow free now.

» Take Help from a Certified Financial Planner

– You need professional plan and monitoring.
– A Certified Financial Planner can assess and guide.
– They help in budgeting, restructuring, and rebuilding.
– They give ideas suited to your exact case.

» Keep a Monthly Review Habit

– Create a small notebook or file.
– Track every EMI and payment date.
– Write down expenses daily.
– Every month, review progress and adjust.
– This habit will bring control and confidence.

» Build Emergency Fund Slowly

– Once your debt is low, start saving.
– Build 3–6 months of basic expenses.
– Keep this in liquid fund or bank.
– This avoids taking loan again for emergencies.

» Finally

– You are not alone in this journey.
– Many people have come out of debt.
– Your awareness and action will make all the difference.
– Reduce spending. Avoid new loans.
– Use savings or surplus to kill high-cost loans.
– Track progress monthly without fail.
– Don’t worry about past mistakes.
– Just take smart steps ahead with discipline.

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

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 19, 2024

Listen
Money
I have a debt of 70 lakhs how do I clear it, my salary is only 37250
Ans: You are currently facing a significant debt of Rs 70 lakhs with a monthly salary of Rs 37,250. Clearing this debt will require a strategic and disciplined approach.

Step-by-Step Debt Repayment Plan
1. Assess Your Debt
Type of Debt: Identify the types of debt you have (home loan, personal loan, credit card debt, etc.).
Interest Rates: List the interest rates for each debt.
Monthly EMIs: Calculate the total monthly EMIs for your debt.
2. Create a Budget
Track Expenses: Track your monthly expenses and categorize them (essentials, non-essentials, savings).
Cut Unnecessary Costs: Identify areas where you can cut back on expenses.
3. Prioritize Debt Repayment
High-Interest Debt: Focus on paying off high-interest debt first. This will reduce the overall interest burden.
Debt Snowball Method: Alternatively, use the debt snowball method by paying off the smallest debt first to gain momentum.
4. Increase Your Income
Part-Time Job: Consider taking a part-time job or freelance work to increase your income.
Skill Enhancement: Invest in skills that can help you get a higher-paying job or promotion.
5. Consolidate Debt
Debt Consolidation Loan: Explore options for a debt consolidation loan with a lower interest rate to simplify payments and reduce interest.
Balance Transfer: If you have credit card debt, consider a balance transfer to a card with a lower interest rate.
6. Negotiate with Lenders
Interest Rate Reduction: Negotiate with your lenders to reduce the interest rate or extend the repayment period.
Settlement Offers: In some cases, lenders might offer a settlement amount for a one-time payment that is less than the total outstanding amount.
Detailed Action Plan
Immediate Actions
Track and Cut Expenses: Use a budgeting app or a spreadsheet to track all your expenses.
Prioritize EMIs: Ensure you never miss an EMI payment to avoid penalties and further damage to your credit score.
Medium-Term Actions
Increase Income: Look for side gigs, freelance opportunities, or part-time jobs.
Skill Enhancement: Enroll in online courses or certifications that can boost your earning potential.
Long-Term Actions
Debt Consolidation: Research and apply for a debt consolidation loan if it offers a lower interest rate.
Negotiate with Lenders: Reach out to your lenders to discuss possible interest rate reductions or settlement options.
Professional Guidance
Certified Financial Planner (CFP): Consult a CFP for personalized advice and a detailed financial plan.
Debt Counselor: Consider speaking with a debt counselor who can help negotiate with creditors and provide structured repayment plans.
Monitoring and Adjusting
Regular Reviews: Review your financial situation and debt repayment progress monthly.
Adjust Plan: Adjust your budget and repayment plan based on changes in income, expenses, or debt structure.
Final Insights
Managing a large debt with a modest income requires meticulous planning and discipline. By prioritizing high-interest debt, increasing income, consolidating debt, and seeking professional advice, you can steadily progress towards clearing your debt. Regular reviews and adjustments to your plan will ensure you stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 05, 2025

Listen
Money
I am Lisha a kg teacher. I have debt of 40 lakhs. I have net income 25000. How can I manage to recover from debt? Please reply
Ans: Understanding the Debt Situation

You have a total debt of Rs. 40 lakhs.

Your net income is Rs. 25,000 per month.

Managing this situation requires planning, discipline, and action.

The key focus should be reducing high-interest loans first.

Increasing income is also necessary to speed up debt repayment.

Prioritising Debt Repayment

List all loans with their interest rates and EMI amounts.

Identify which loans have the highest interest rates.

Prioritise paying off the costliest loan first.

If you have multiple high-interest loans, consider debt consolidation.

Avoid taking new loans or using credit cards for daily expenses.

Reducing Monthly Interest Burden

Rs. 40 lakh debt with Rs. 25,000 income is a serious imbalance.

Your monthly interest burden alone can be unmanageable.

Speak with lenders and request lower interest rates.

Negotiate for an extended loan tenure to reduce EMI.

Avoid late payments to prevent penalties and additional charges.

Earning More Income

With Rs. 25,000 monthly income, repaying Rs. 40 lakh is tough.

Look for additional income sources, even part-time jobs.

Explore online tutoring, weekend coaching, or freelance work.

If possible, upskill to apply for a higher-paying job.

Can you take extra classes at school for additional earnings?

Find small home-based businesses like craft-making or baking.

Use any skills you have to create an extra income stream.

Cutting Down Expenses

Reduce unnecessary expenses wherever possible.

Limit non-essential spending like dining out, entertainment, and subscriptions.

Look for cheaper alternatives for daily expenses.

Create a strict monthly budget and track every expense.

Save on electricity, fuel, and shopping wherever possible.

Avoid personal luxuries until your financial situation improves.

Seeking Family Support

If possible, take help from family members.

Can they provide an interest-free loan for partial debt payment?

Even a small contribution can reduce your debt burden.

Family members may also help with daily expenses for some time.

Transparent communication with them is important.

Avoiding Traps of Loan Apps & Credit Cards

Avoid borrowing from mobile loan apps due to high interest.

Credit cards should not be used for cash withdrawals.

Paying only the minimum due on a credit card leads to more debt.

If you have credit card debt, clear it first due to high interest.

Stick to formal financial institutions for loans.

Exploring Debt Restructuring Options

If you have a bank loan, check if restructuring is possible.

Some banks allow restructuring in financial hardship cases.

This can reduce EMI or provide a temporary relief period.

Approach your lenders with a genuine repayment plan.

Avoid defaulting, as it can hurt your credit score.

Avoiding High-Risk Investments

Do not fall for quick-money schemes or gambling.

Avoid investments that promise unrealistically high returns.

Avoid stock market trading without proper knowledge.

Focus on steady income generation instead of risky bets.

Checking for Any Insurance Policies

If you have LIC, ULIP, or investment-linked insurance, review them.

If surrendering makes sense, reinvest the amount wisely.

Do not stop health insurance, as medical emergencies can worsen finances.

Creating a Step-by-Step Debt Repayment Plan

Pay the minimum due on all loans to avoid penalties.

Focus on repaying the highest-interest loan first.

Negotiate lower interest rates with lenders.

Increase income through side jobs.

Reduce unnecessary expenses to save money.

Explore options like debt consolidation if suitable.

Seek family support where possible.

Avoid new loans unless absolutely necessary.

Finally

Your financial situation is tough but not impossible to fix.

With discipline and effort, debt repayment is possible.

Every small step in saving and earning will help.

Avoid financial mistakes and stay committed to the plan.

With time, your financial situation will improve.

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 Aug 02, 2025

Money
I have debt of 15 laks in multiple loan , i have net income 40000, how can i manage to recover debt. i want to convart under 1 EMI
Ans: You’ve taken a responsible step by reaching out for help. Managing Rs 15 lakh debt with Rs 40,000 net income is tough, but not impossible. With clear priorities, financial discipline, and a focused plan, you can gain control.

Here’s a full 360-degree guidance tailored to your situation:

» Understand the Debt Structure

List all your existing loans separately.

Note down principal, interest rate, and monthly EMI for each.

This gives a clear picture of which loans are draining you most.

Check which loans are unsecured (like personal loans or credit card).

These usually have high interest and need attention first.

» Analyse Existing EMI Commitments

Add up all monthly EMIs you're paying now.

If it is already over 50% of your income, you’re in a debt trap.

You need breathing space to function monthly.

A single EMI will simplify your finances.

» Explore Loan Consolidation Option

Aim to combine all loans into one.

Apply for a debt consolidation loan from a bank or NBFC.

This is often offered as a personal loan at lower interest.

It will help bring all existing debts under one roof.

You’ll move from many EMIs to one.

Monthly EMI may get reduced depending on tenure and rate.

Banks may reject if your credit score is poor.

Try a top-up loan if you already have a running loan with good history.

Avoid peer-to-peer lenders or unregulated fintechs.

Their rates may be high and increase your burden.

» Consider a Secured Loan if Consolidation Fails

If you have any asset (FD, insurance, gold), use it to get a secured loan.

A loan against asset has lower interest and longer tenure.

This will reduce EMI pressure and help repay old loans.

Avoid pledging your house unless it’s a last resort.

Loan against LIC is also an option if policy is active and eligible.

Gold loan from a trusted NBFC or bank is also feasible.

» Prioritise Debt Based on Interest Rates

Focus on clearing high-interest loans first.

Credit card dues and personal loans often have the highest interest.

Pay minimum for other loans and direct extra funds to the costliest one.

This is called the avalanche method.

» Create a Zero-Based Monthly Budget

Every rupee should have a role – income minus expenses must be zero.

First set aside money for EMI, then essential expenses like food and utilities.

Cut all luxury, entertainment, and unnecessary spending for now.

Even Rs 500 saved matters.

Shift to cash-based spending to avoid impulse purchases.

Keep track of every rupee going out.

» Increase Income Proactively

Look for part-time or weekend freelance work.

Online tuition, delivery jobs, content creation – anything legal and scalable.

If your current role allows, ask for overtime or explore side hustle options.

Even Rs 5,000 extra monthly can fast-track repayment.

» Involve Family if Comfortable

If you have family support, discuss the situation openly.

Sometimes a short-term interest-free family loan can help consolidate.

Transparency helps avoid emotional pressure later.

But don’t rely entirely on others; own your financial recovery journey.

» Avoid These Common Mistakes

Don’t borrow again to repay existing loans unless it is a consolidation loan.

Avoid using credit card to meet EMI payments.

Don’t opt for informal lenders or daily interest options.

Don’t skip EMIs – it damages your credit profile.

Don’t delay action. Debt doesn’t resolve on its own.

Every month matters. Small actions add up.

» Plan for Emergency Fund in Parallel

You still need Rs 500–Rs 1000 monthly savings in an emergency fund.

Use a basic recurring deposit or a digital FD.

This avoids taking new loans for small future needs.

Financial security needs backup.

» Build Credit Profile Slowly

Once your single EMI runs smoothly for 6 months, your credit score will improve.

This opens future loan refinancing or top-up options.

Never close old loans before checking credit score update.

Also, avoid too many loan applications together – it reduces score.

» Use a Certified Financial Planner for Structuring

If you feel overwhelmed, engage a MFD-CFP professional.

They can assist in restructuring through banking partners.

They may also help with disciplined investing once debt is in control.

DIY approach can become stressful and scattered.

» Be Patient and Track Progress

Track your outstanding debt monthly.

Maintain a simple notebook or Excel sheet.

Celebrate each Rs 1 lakh cleared.

Stay motivated – it’s not a lifelong burden.

» Finally

You are not alone. Many professionals have cleared larger debts with smaller income.

The goal is not overnight debt-freedom, but steady recovery.

One EMI, zero impulsive expenses, and small savings – these are your new rules.

With 24 months of discipline, your financial freedom is achievable.

Take back control. One step at a time.

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

..Read more

Samraat

Samraat Jadhav  |2498 Answers  |Ask -

Stock Market Expert - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 15, 2025Hindi
Money
I have debt of rs. 20lakhs which include pl and credit card bill payments and my monthly income is 28k only please suggest how to I am debt free
Ans: 1. Assess and List Out All Debts
List each loan and credit card with:
• Amount owed
• Monthly EMI or minimum payment
• Interest rate
This will help you understand which debts are costing you the most and need to be prioritized.

2. Create a Bare-bones Budget
• List your essential expenses only: rent, food, utilities, transportation.
• Allocate most of your income toward debt repayment: Many people use a “60-30-10” rule—spending 60% of income on debts, 30% on essentials, and 10% on minor needs or savings, if possible.
• Cut all non-essential expenses (entertainment, eating out, subscriptions).

3. Prioritize Payments
Pay expensive loans first: Focus on debts with the highest interest rate (usually credit cards)—this is called the Avalanche Method.
Always pay at least the minimum on all debts to avoid penalty charges or further damage to your credit score.

4. Talk to Your Lenders
Request lower interest rates or extended loan tenures. Some banks and NBFCs might offer hardship or restructuring programs.
Ask about converting credit card balances into loans with lower EMIs.
Check if you qualify for a debt consolidation loan to combine all debts into one EMI at a lower rate.

5. Explore Additional Income Sources
Take up a side job or gig: tutoring, food delivery, freelancing, weekend work, etc.
Sell unused items online.
Any extra amount should go directly to debt repayment.

6. Avoid Taking On New Debt
Don’t use credit cards or personal loans for discretionary spending.
Avoid “payday loans” or instant loans with high interest.

Sample Monthly Action Plan
Step Amount Allocated
Income (per month) ?28,000
Essentials (rent, food, etc.) ~?8,000-?10,000
Debt repayments ?16,800-?18,000+ (60%+)
Other (emergency savings) ?0-?2,000
If your current minimum payments are more than your income allows, you must negotiate with lenders, as defaulting will further hurt your financial health and credit score.

Mindset Tips
• Celebrate small wins; every rupee paid reduces your stress.
• Stick to your plan—discipline will help you get through this.
• Don’t lose hope—many have successfully cleared similar debts with patience and perseverance.

Final Note
Your current income is not sufficient to clear such a large debt in a short time. Becoming debt-free will require:
• Aggressively cutting expenses
• Increasing your income wherever possible
• Negotiating with lenders for the best possible repayment terms
Seek help when needed and stay disciplined throughout the journey.

..Read more

Latest Questions
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.

...Read more

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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x