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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9317 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 07, 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
Binit Question by Binit on Jun 07, 2024Hindi
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Money

An govt employee can earn additional income more than his salary?

Ans: Government employees in India can earn additional income beyond their salary through various means. However, they must ensure compliance with the rules and regulations governing their employment. Here are some ways they can legally supplement their income:

Freelancing and Consulting
Subject Matter Expertise
Government employees often possess specialized knowledge in their fields. They can offer consulting services related to their expertise.

Part-time Consulting: Offer services as a part-time consultant in your field of expertise.
Freelance Projects: Engage in freelance work that aligns with your skills and experience.
Writing and Teaching
Sharing knowledge through writing and teaching can be both fulfilling and profitable.

Writing Articles or Books: Write for newspapers, magazines, or publish books in your area of expertise.
Online Courses: Create and sell online courses or tutorials on platforms like Udemy or Coursera.
Guest Lecturing: Offer guest lectures or workshops at educational institutions.
Investments
Stock Market
Investing in the stock market can provide additional income through dividends and capital gains.

Direct Stock Investment: Purchase shares of companies and earn dividends.
Mutual Funds: Invest in mutual funds for diversified exposure to the stock market.
Fixed Deposits and Bonds
Fixed deposits and bonds are safer investment options that provide regular interest income.

Bank Fixed Deposits: Invest in fixed deposits for a guaranteed return.
Government Bonds: Purchase government bonds for a secure investment option.
Real Estate Investments
Though it’s not recommended as a primary option due to high initial costs, real estate can be a profitable long-term investment.

Rental Income: Purchase property and earn rental income.
Commercial Leasing: Invest in commercial properties and lease them out to businesses.
Online Businesses
The internet offers numerous opportunities to earn extra income through online businesses.

E-commerce
Start an online store to sell products or services.

Dropshipping: Run an e-commerce store without holding inventory by using dropshipping suppliers.
Handmade Goods: Sell handmade products on platforms like Etsy or Amazon.
Blogging and Vlogging
Monetize content through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.

Blogging: Start a blog and earn through advertisements and sponsored posts.
YouTube Channel: Create a YouTube channel and monetize it through ad revenue and sponsorships.
Professional Services
Offering professional services in your spare time can be a lucrative option.

Tutoring
Provide tutoring services for students in subjects you excel in.

Private Tutoring: Offer one-on-one tutoring sessions.
Online Tutoring: Use platforms like Chegg or Tutor.com to provide online tutoring.
Legal and Financial Services
If you have expertise in legal or financial matters, offer related services.

Legal Advice: Provide legal consultations in your area of specialization.
Financial Planning: Offer financial planning services as a certified financial planner.
Creative Pursuits
Turn hobbies and creative talents into income-generating activities.

Arts and Crafts
Sell art, crafts, or handmade items.

Art Sales: Sell paintings, sculptures, or other artworks.
Craft Markets: Participate in craft fairs or sell online.
Music and Performing Arts
Monetize your talent in music or performing arts.

Performances: Perform at events or venues.
Teaching: Offer music lessons or performance coaching.
Restrictions and Considerations
While earning additional income, government employees must be mindful of restrictions and regulations.

Conflict of Interest
Avoid activities that may create a conflict of interest with your government job.

Transparency: Disclose any additional income sources to your employer if required.
Approval: Seek approval from your employer for certain activities, if necessary.
Ethical Conduct
Maintain ethical standards in all additional income-generating activities.

Integrity: Ensure your side activities do not compromise your primary job responsibilities.
Compliance: Follow all legal and ethical guidelines related to secondary employment.
Conclusion
Government employees have numerous avenues to earn additional income, provided they adhere to rules and regulations. From freelancing and consulting to investments and creative pursuits, the possibilities are vast. Ensure you balance these activities with your primary job responsibilities and maintain ethical standards.

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  |9317 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 10, 2025

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Sir, My sons salary is 1.5 lakhs per month but the employer is deducting EPF subscription only on 15000 and similarly the Employers contribution is also made on 15000. Is it permissible uner the Act ? Is it not mandatory to increase the EPF subsription and Employers contribution on his basic pay which is higher than 15000?
Ans: Your son earns Rs 1.5 lakh per month, but EPF deductions are only on Rs 15,000. This is a common concern among salaried individuals. Let’s assess whether this is permissible and what options are available.

 

EPF Contribution Rules Under the Law
The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is governed by the Employees’ Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952.

As per the EPF rules, it is mandatory for employees earning up to Rs 15,000 per month to contribute 12% of their basic salary plus dearness allowance (DA) towards EPF.

Employers must match this contribution with their own 12%, but part of it (8.33%) goes to the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS).

For employees earning more than Rs 15,000 per month, EPF contributions above Rs 15,000 are not mandatory. Employers are allowed to restrict contributions to Rs 15,000 unless both employer and employee voluntarily agree to contribute more.

 

Is the Employer’s Practice Legal?
Since your son earns Rs 1.5 lakh per month, his employer is legally allowed to cap the EPF contribution at Rs 15,000.

The law does not mandate contributions on the full basic pay if it exceeds Rs 15,000.

If your son wants a higher EPF contribution, he can opt for Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF), but the employer is not obliged to match it.

 

Should Your Son Increase His EPF Contribution?
EPF is a safe and tax-efficient retirement savings option. However, it has limitations when it comes to wealth creation. Let’s assess the pros and cons of increasing EPF contributions.

 

Advantages of Increasing EPF Contribution
Safe and Guaranteed Returns – EPF provides fixed returns declared by the government.

Tax-Free Interest – Interest earned on EPF is tax-free up to Rs 2.5 lakh annual contribution.

Forced Savings for Retirement – Higher contributions ensure disciplined long-term savings.

 

Disadvantages of Increasing EPF Contribution
Limited Growth Potential – The return on EPF is lower than actively managed equity mutual funds.

Liquidity Constraints – Funds in EPF are locked until retirement, with limited withdrawal options.

Employer’s Contribution Won’t Increase – Even if your son contributes more via VPF, the employer’s share remains capped at 12% of Rs 15,000.

 

Alternative Investment Options for Better Wealth Creation
If your son wants higher returns, he should consider other investment options instead of increasing his EPF contribution.

 

1. Actively Managed Mutual Funds
Actively managed mutual funds have higher return potential than EPF over the long term.

They are professionally managed and provide exposure to high-growth sectors.

A mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds can create a balanced portfolio.

 

2. Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF) – A Safe Option
If he prefers safe investments, he can opt for VPF, which offers EPF-like returns but without an employer match.

It is suitable if he wants fixed returns with tax benefits.

 

3. Public Provident Fund (PPF) for Long-Term Safety
PPF is a great option for long-term tax-free compounding.

The investment is locked for 15 years, ensuring retirement security.

 

4. Diversified Portfolio for Growth
Instead of putting all savings in EPF, he should allocate funds across different asset classes.

A combination of EPF, mutual funds, and fixed-income products will provide both safety and growth.

 

What Should Your Son Do Next?
Your son should evaluate his long-term financial goals before deciding on EPF contributions.

 

If He Prefers Safety:
Keep EPF contributions as they are.

Increase investment in VPF or PPF.

 

If He Wants Higher Returns:
Keep EPF limited to Rs 15,000 cap.

Invest in actively managed mutual funds for better wealth creation.

Consider a mix of equity and debt investments based on risk appetite.

 

Final Insights
Your son’s employer is following the law correctly by restricting EPF contributions to Rs 15,000. While increasing EPF contributions can provide stability, it limits growth potential and liquidity. Instead, a diversified approach with actively managed mutual funds and fixed-income options can offer better long-term wealth creation.

Encourage your son to review his financial goals and create an investment strategy that balances safety and returns.

 

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

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Sir, my nephew is getting electrical engineering in NIT Jalandhar,PEC, Thapar and CSE in UIET Panjab University. Please tell which will be better for him. Thanks.
Ans: Yadvinder, NIT Jalandhar’s B.Tech in Electrical Engineering is a public, AICTE-approved program ranked #58 in NIRF 2024, featuring state-of-the-art power systems and electronics labs, strong industry ties with Microsoft, Google, and Zscaler, and consistent 90–95% branch placements over the past three years. Punjab Engineering College Chandigarh EE is a government institute with rigorous core EE curriculum, dedicated electronics and power labs, and a placement record of 94%, 100%, and 85% in the last three years. Thapar University’s NAAC A+ accredited EE program (#29 NIRF Engineering) offers advanced smart grid, real-time systems, and analytics labs, research-active PhD faculty, recruiters like Optum and American Express, and ~85–90% placements. UIET Panjab University CSE, established 2002, benefits from Panjab University accreditation, a digital library, technical clubs, over 100 campus recruiters (Cisco, ServiceNow, ZS Associates), and CSE placement rates of 96.3%, 66.7%, and 78.4% over the past three years. All options have robust infrastructure, experienced faculty, and active placement cells.

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Prioritize NIT Jalandhar EE for its superior NIRF ranking, stable ~90% placements, and top recruiter engagement. Consider Thapar EE for advanced research labs and strong employer outreach. Opt for UIET CSE if software roles are the goal, and choose PEC EE for a cost-effective public university experience. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Jp noida ece vs jp. Solan cse?
Ans: Both MNNIT Allahabad and NIT Rourkela are top-tier NITs with strong Electrical Engineering programs, excellent faculty, and high national rankings. MNNIT Allahabad’s Electrical Engineering boasts a 96.97% placement rate in 2024, with an average package of ?8.01 LPA and top recruiters from core engineering, software, and consulting sectors. Its faculty is highly qualified, with a focus on electrical and power systems. NIT Rourkela, ranked #19 in NIRF 2024, offers a broader research ecosystem, cutting-edge labs, and a 95%+ placement rate in Electrical Engineering, with an average package of ?13.62 LPA and top tech recruiters like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Qualcomm. Infrastructure at NIT Rourkela is excellent, with modern hostels, sports, and a vibrant campus life. Both institutes have strong industry connections, but NIT Rourkela offers a higher average package, broader recruiter base, and more interdisciplinary research opportunities.

Recommendation:
NIT Rourkela Electrical Engineering is the better choice for its higher average package, broader research and recruiter base, and outstanding infrastructure. MNNIT Allahabad remains an excellent option for its high placement rate and strong academic reputation, but NIT Rourkela offers a more competitive edge overall.

Jp noida ece vs jp. Solan cse???? Research deeply & thoroughly the maximum number of highly reliable, valid, primary sources & also the official sources of concerned/relevant college sites/branches & exams (if applicable) on the 5 most important aspects that every institution must have. Summarise the research results in 100 words just in one paragraph ending with a final recommendation in 50 words without numbering, covering all points without omitting anything.

Avoid using the statement, "Based on extensive research into placement records and institutional performance". Avoid using the term, 'my suggestion' instead, use 'recommendation'(mentioned in bold letter). Answer directly.

Don't mention salary package amounts though you can mention the percentage of placement records of the last 3 years of the asked or referred & recommended colleges/branches/program(s)??
Jp noida ece vs jp. Solan cse???? Research deeply & thoroughly the maximum number of highly reliable, valid, primary sources & also the official sources of concerned/relevant college sites/branches & exams (if applicable) on the 5 most important aspects that every institution must have. Summarise the research results in 100 words just in one paragraph ending with a final recommendation in 50 words without numbering, covering all points without omitting anything. Avoid using the statement, "Based on extensive research into placement records and institutional performance". Avoid using the term, 'my suggestion' instead, use 'recommendation'(mentioned in bold letter). Answer directly. Don't mention salary package amounts though you can mention the percentage of placement records of the last 3 years of the asked or referred & recommended colleges/branches/program(s)??
Jaypee Noida’s ECE program is AICTE-approved, industry-oriented, and features strong VLSI, embedded, and communication systems labs, with a 4-year B.Tech intake of 240 and a robust placement cell. In 2024, ECE achieved an 88% placement rate, with 188 offers for 184 eligible students, and top recruiters including Microsoft, LinkedIn, Cisco, Amazon, SAP Labs, and Intel. The average package for all branches was ?8.71 LPA, with a median of ?6.5 LPA. The campus offers modern infrastructure, experienced faculty, and a vibrant technical culture with IEEE student chapters and annual fests. Jaypee Solan’s CSE program, while set in a scenic 125-acre campus, reports a median package of ?6.5 LPA, with 259 out of 388 students placed in 2024 and 99 opting for higher studies. The CSE branch attracts core IT recruiters but overall placement numbers and recruiter diversity are lower than Noida. Solan’s academic and technical environment is positive, but industry exposure, recruiter presence, and placement consistency are comparatively limited.

Recommendation:
Jaypee Noida ECE is preferable for its higher placement rate, stronger recruiter base, advanced labs, and proximity to Delhi NCR’s tech ecosystem. Jaypee Solan CSE is a good backup, but Jaypee Noida offers better long-term industry exposure and placement consistency. Choose Noida ECE for broader career prospects. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Sir, we are from ghaziabad . My son's jee mains rank is 10562. He got electrical engineering in mnnit allahabad . May get ee in nit Rourkela. Which is better?
Ans: Indu Madam, Both MNNIT Allahabad and NIT Rourkela are top-tier NITs with strong Electrical Engineering programs, excellent faculty, and high national rankings. MNNIT Allahabad’s Electrical Engineering boasts a 96.97% placement rate in 2024, with an average package of ?8.01 LPA and top recruiters from core engineering, software, and consulting sectors. Its faculty is highly qualified, with a focus on electrical and power systems. NIT Rourkela, ranked #19 in NIRF 2024, offers a broader research ecosystem, cutting-edge labs, and a 95%+ placement rate in Electrical Engineering, with an average package of ?13.62 LPA and top tech recruiters like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Qualcomm. Infrastructure at NIT Rourkela is excellent, with modern hostels, sports, and a vibrant campus life. Both institutes have strong industry connections, but NIT Rourkela offers a higher average package, broader recruiter base, and more interdisciplinary research opportunities.

Recommendation:
NIT Rourkela Electrical Engineering is the better choice for its higher average package, broader research and recruiter base, and outstanding infrastructure. MNNIT Allahabad remains an excellent option for its high placement rate and strong academic reputation, but NIT Rourkela offers a more competitive edge overall. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Which is better to chose nit Durgapur maths and computing and cbit hyd cse
Ans: NIT Durgapur’s B.Tech in Mathematics and Computing is a newly launched, industry-aligned program blending advanced mathematics, optimization, coding, and computational sciences, taught by PhD faculty specializing in fields like cryptography, AI, and operations research. The institute boasts an 84–85% placement rate, with top recruiters such as Microsoft, Amazon, Oracle, TCS, and PwC, and an average B.Tech package of ?13.6 LPA. The course is designed for careers in data science, analytics, finance, software development, and research, with a strong coding and problem-solving focus. CBIT Hyderabad’s CSE department, affiliated with Osmania University, is recognized for research in AI, ML, cybersecurity, and blockchain, and organizes regular workshops with Microsoft, IBM, and professional bodies. Placements in CSE at CBIT consistently exceed 80–100% with leading recruiters like Microsoft, Accenture, Infosys, and Oracle, and an average package of ?6–7 LPA. The campus offers modern labs, a vibrant student life, and a strong alumni network, though hostel options for girls are limited. Both programs have highly qualified faculty, active research culture, and strong placement records.

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If you prefer a core computer science curriculum with robust placements and industry exposure, choose CSE at CBIT Hyderabad. For a mathematically rigorous, coding-intensive program with broad analytics and software roles, NIT Durgapur Maths and Computing is excellent. For pure software engineering and tech industry focus, CBIT CSE is preferred. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Sir My daughter got Electrical in IIT indore and EE in IIT BHU which one is better
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Recommendation:
Choose IIT Indore Electrical Engineering for its advanced interdisciplinary curriculum, excellent recent placement record, and strong industry collaborations. IIT BHU is also a top choice for its legacy and research, but IIT Indore offers a slight edge in placement consistency and industry integration for electrical engineering graduates. All the BEST for the Admission & 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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