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Naveenn

Naveenn Kummar  |235 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 09, 2025

Naveenn Kummar has over 16 years of experience in banking and financial services.
He is an Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI)-registered mutual fund distributor, an Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)-licensed insurance advisor and a qualified personal finance professional (QPFP) certified by Network FP.
An engineering graduate with an MBA in management, he leads Alenova Financial Services under Vadula Consultancy Services, offering solutions in mutual funds, insurance, retirement planning and wealth management.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Aug 05, 2025Hindi
Money

Hello I am 36 M.I have a rental income of 1.5 lakh/month post expenses. No liabilities but but I do invest 9 lakh for next 8 years in a term plan. Please suggest a suitable long term and Short term investment plan.

Ans: Dear Sir,

Thank you for sharing your details. At 36 years with no liabilities, healthy rental income of 1.5 lakh/month, and existing term plan premium, you are in a strong financial position. Below is a broad framework to plan long-term and short-term investments.

Observations

Rental income gives you steady cash flow.

No liabilities means higher capacity to save and invest.

Term plan already provides risk cover.

Important to balance between liquidity (short-term) and wealth creation (long-term).

please consult qpfp/financial planner for complete planning

Best regards,
Naveenn Kummar, BE, MBA, QPFP
Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
www.alenova.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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Ulhas

Ulhas Joshi  |280 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Fund Expert - Answered on Jul 27, 2023

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Money
I am going to enter my 60 on 1 Aug 2023. I could invest at least 50 K per month from now for a minimum of 10 years. Suggest suitable investment idea for a long term retirement fund. This 50 k includes a 12k of rental income. No EMIs to pay. Some 2 L in bank balance. No retirement for me compulsorily. Can work as long as I wish. I am fit enough to work for at least for 20 years. 1 Cr. Corpus, I am planning. Guide me suitably. Thanks in advance
Ans: Hello Ashokan and thanks for writing to me. I wish you a very happy birthday a little bit in advance.

Assuming that your you are able to generate XIRR of around 12%, you will be able to create a corpus of around Rs.1.16 Crore after 10 years.

You can consider investing in small cap and mid cap funds for around 5 to 7 years and then switch to large cap balanced advantage funds for the latter part of your journey. Small and midcap funds while generally more volatile than large cap and balanced advantage funds, can offer higher returns.

Now, you can consider starting SIP's in:

1-DSP Midcap Fund-Rs.10,000
2-SBI Magnum Midcap Fund-Rs.10,000
3-Kotak Emerging Equity Fund-Rs.10,000
4-HSBC Midcap Fund-Rs.10,000
5-UTI Midcap Fund-Rs.10,000

After a period of say 5 to 7 years, you can stop investments in these schemes and then begin investing in BAF and Large Cap funds.

Stepping up your SIP's every year will help you create a larger corpus. Periodic rebalancing of all schemes you are investing in is essential to ensure you are on the right financial track. I recommend you consult a financial planner who can help you create a robust plan keeping your needs in mind.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 20, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 20, 2024Hindi
Money
Iam 440yr old married women, I work in the government sector my take home salary is 73k after all deductions. Ihave personal lone of 25lak, where I pay around 40emi per month, I have so far 19lak in NPS, around 2lak in mutal fund and 1lak in equity, i have few LIC policies and Health insurance and a term plan too. I want to know a few investment options for long term with minimum investment but good returns.
Ans: It’s great to see your proactive approach in planning for long-term investments. Let's break down your situation and explore some investment options that align with your goals and circumstances.

Assessing Your Current Financial Situation
You have a stable job in the government sector with a take-home salary of Rs 73,000 after deductions. You also have some existing investments and insurance policies. This is a great start.

You are paying an EMI of Rs 40,000 for a personal loan of Rs 25 lakh. This is a significant portion of your salary, and it would be wise to focus on repaying this loan as quickly as possible.

Your current investments include:

Rs 19 lakh in NPS
Rs 2 lakh in mutual funds
Rs 1 lakh in equity
LIC policies, health insurance, and a term plan
Given these details, let's explore some investment options that could help you achieve good returns with minimal investment over the long term.

Prioritizing Loan Repayment
Your first priority should be to manage your personal loan. With an EMI of Rs 40,000, this loan is a major financial commitment. Paying off this loan faster can free up more funds for other investments.

Consider making extra payments towards the principal amount whenever possible. This can reduce the loan tenure and the total interest paid. Allocating bonuses or any additional income towards this loan repayment can be a smart move.

Enhancing Your NPS Contribution
Your Rs 19 lakh in NPS is a solid foundation for your retirement planning. NPS offers a mix of equity, corporate bonds, and government securities, providing a balanced risk-reward ratio. Increasing your contributions to NPS can be beneficial due to the tax advantages and potential for compounded growth over time.

Given your long-term horizon, you might consider allocating a higher percentage towards equity within your NPS. Equity investments typically offer higher returns over the long term compared to debt instruments.

Exploring Mutual Funds for Long-Term Growth
You already have Rs 2 lakh in mutual funds, which is a good start. Investing in mutual funds can provide diversified exposure to various asset classes like equity and debt. Here’s why actively managed mutual funds could be a better choice for you:

Professional Management: Actively managed funds have fund managers who make investment decisions based on market conditions, aiming to outperform benchmarks.

Flexibility: These funds can adapt to market changes, potentially providing better returns compared to index funds which are passively managed.

Diverse Options: There are various types of actively managed mutual funds, such as large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. Diversifying your investments across these categories can spread risk and enhance returns.

It’s important to review and select funds based on their performance history, fund manager expertise, and alignment with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Investing in Equity for Higher Returns
With Rs 1 lakh already in equity, you understand the potential for higher returns. Direct equity investments require careful analysis and a strong understanding of the stock market. Here are some tips for your equity investments:

Research Thoroughly: Invest in companies with strong fundamentals, good management, and growth potential. Keep an eye on market trends and news.

Diversify: Spread your investments across different sectors to mitigate risks. Avoid putting all your money in a single stock or sector.

Long-Term Perspective: Equity investments can be volatile in the short term. Stay invested for the long term to benefit from potential growth and compounding returns.

Reviewing LIC Policies and Insurance Coverage
It’s good that you have LIC policies, health insurance, and a term plan. However, it’s important to evaluate these policies periodically to ensure they meet your current needs and financial goals.

LIC Policies: These are typically investment-cum-insurance plans. Compare the returns on these policies with other investment options. If the returns are lower, consider surrendering these policies and reinvesting in mutual funds or other higher-return options.

Health Insurance: Ensure your health insurance coverage is adequate for your family's needs. Medical expenses can be a major financial burden, so having sufficient coverage is crucial.

Term Plan: This is a cost-effective way to ensure your family’s financial security in case of any unforeseen events. Make sure the coverage amount is sufficient to meet your family's future expenses and liabilities.

Balancing Risk and Returns with SIPs
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) in mutual funds can be an excellent way to invest regularly with discipline. SIPs allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly, taking advantage of rupee cost averaging and compounding benefits.

Start Small: Begin with an amount you’re comfortable with and gradually increase it as your financial situation improves.

Consistency: Invest consistently, regardless of market conditions. This helps in accumulating wealth over time and reduces the impact of market volatility.

Goal-Based Investing: Align your SIP investments with specific financial goals such as retirement, children’s education, or buying a house.

Emergency Fund and Financial Security
Before making new investments, ensure you have an adequate emergency fund. This fund should cover 6-12 months of living expenses, providing a financial cushion for unexpected situations like medical emergencies or job loss.

Having an emergency fund ensures that you won’t need to dip into your long-term investments during a financial crunch, thereby protecting your investment growth.

Exploring Tax-Saving Investment Options
As a salaried individual, it’s important to explore tax-saving investment options to reduce your tax liability while growing your wealth. Here are a few options to consider:

ELSS Funds: Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) funds offer tax benefits under Section 80C and have the potential for higher returns due to their equity exposure.

PPF: Public Provident Fund (PPF) offers a fixed return with tax benefits. It’s a safe, long-term investment option with a 15-year lock-in period.

SSY: Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) is a government-backed scheme for the girl child, offering attractive returns and tax benefits.

Evaluating Direct vs. Regular Mutual Funds
You might wonder whether to invest in direct mutual funds or regular mutual funds. Here’s why regular funds, especially through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), could be more beneficial:

Professional Guidance: Investing through a CFP provides access to professional advice, helping you make informed decisions and optimize your portfolio.

Holistic Planning: A CFP can help you with comprehensive financial planning, aligning your investments with your life goals.

Regular Monitoring: Regular funds come with the added advantage of ongoing monitoring and portfolio rebalancing, ensuring your investments remain aligned with your goals.

Direct funds might have lower expense ratios, but the benefits of professional guidance and support through regular funds often outweigh the cost difference.

Focusing on Long-Term Wealth Creation
Your goal is to achieve long-term wealth creation with minimum investment but good returns. Here are a few strategies to help you:

Stay Disciplined: Regular and disciplined investing is key to long-term wealth creation. Stick to your investment plan and avoid making impulsive decisions based on short-term market movements.

Review Periodically: Regularly review your investment portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your goals and risk tolerance. Rebalance your portfolio as needed.

Educate Yourself: Stay informed about market trends and investment options. Continuous learning can help you make better investment decisions.

Final Insights
Planning for long-term investments requires a strategic approach and disciplined execution. Given your current financial situation, focusing on loan repayment, enhancing your NPS contributions, investing in actively managed mutual funds, and maintaining adequate insurance coverage can set you on the path to financial success.

Remember to prioritize building an emergency fund and consider tax-saving investment options to maximize your wealth creation efforts. Regularly review and adjust your investment plan to stay aligned with your goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 31, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 31, 2024Hindi
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Money
Sir, my salary is 35k per month and my age is 21, I save roughly around 10k, I have no investments, please guide short term and long term investment plans. My long term future plan is to save some money for a home.
Ans: You earn Rs 35,000 per month. You save Rs 10,000 monthly. At 21, you have ample time to grow your savings. Let's create a plan for short-term and long-term goals.

Short-term Investment Plans
Emergency Fund: Build an emergency fund. Save at least 6 months of expenses. This provides a safety net for unexpected needs.

Recurring Deposit: Consider a recurring deposit. It offers stable returns with low risk.

Liquid Funds: Invest in liquid mutual funds. They provide better returns than savings accounts and are easily accessible.

Long-term Investment Plans
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): Start SIPs in equity mutual funds. These offer potential for high returns over time.

Diversification: Diversify your investments across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. This balances risk and growth.

Public Provident Fund (PPF): Open a PPF account. It offers tax benefits and guaranteed returns, ideal for long-term savings.

Avoid Index Funds
Active Funds: Choose actively managed funds. They have the potential to outperform index funds through expert stock selection.
Benefits of Regular Funds
Professional Guidance: Invest through regular funds with the help of a Certified Financial Planner. They provide expert advice and portfolio management.

Long-term Growth: Regular funds can adapt to market changes better than direct funds, ensuring sustained growth.

Saving for a Home
Goal-based SIP: Start a separate SIP for your home goal. This ensures dedicated savings for your future home.

Equity and Debt Mix: Invest in a mix of equity and debt funds. This balances high returns and stability.

Insurance Needs
Term Insurance: Consider a term insurance policy. It provides financial security for your family in case of unforeseen events.

Health Insurance: Ensure you have a comprehensive health insurance plan. It covers medical expenses and protects your savings.

Periodic Review
Regular Check-ups: Review your investments regularly. Ensure they align with your goals and make adjustments as needed.

Rebalancing: Rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation. This keeps your investments on track.

Financial Discipline
Consistent Saving: Continue saving Rs 10,000 monthly. Increase your savings rate as your income grows.

Avoid Debt: Stay away from unnecessary debt. Use credit responsibly and pay off any loans promptly.

Final Insights
Your early start and disciplined saving habits are commendable. Focus on building a diversified investment portfolio. Use SIPs in equity mutual funds for long-term growth. Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage. Regularly review and adjust your investments to stay on track for your home goal.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 15, 2025

Money
Good afternoon sir, I have no debt,have term life 1.85 cr and health insurance of 10 lakhs.After all my expenses I will be left with 15000 rupees.what is best way to invest for long term duration (at least 20 years). Please advise me
Ans: You have done very well by securing your life and health through insurance.

Having Rs. 15,000 available after expenses each month is a strong base.

Planning for a 20-year horizon can give you long-term wealth stability.

Let us explore how to make your savings work for your future.

Understanding Your Financial Position
You have Rs. 15,000 to invest monthly.

You hold term insurance of Rs. 1.85 crore and health cover of Rs. 10 lakhs.

Your investment horizon is 20 years, which is ideal for compounding.

Strategy for Long-Term Wealth Growth
With long-term investment, discipline matters more than market timing.

Investing regularly in a smart and simple way works better over time.

Let us see the best path.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
SIP helps build wealth with monthly investing.

It removes the need to time the market.

SIP brings discipline and builds good financial habits.

It uses rupee cost averaging to reduce risk.

Over 20 years, compounding turns small amounts into wealth.

Use of Diversified Mutual Fund Categories
Mixing different mutual fund types spreads risk and balances returns.

Here’s a simple structure:

Large-cap funds offer safety and steady growth.

Flexi-cap funds give dynamic exposure across all company sizes.

Mid-cap funds offer higher growth with manageable risk.

Hybrid funds balance equity and debt in one fund.

Why Active Funds Over Index Funds
Index funds follow the market. They can’t beat it.

In falling markets, they fall just as much.

Actively managed funds can reduce risk during corrections.

Experienced fund managers make informed moves to protect gains.

Avoid Direct Mutual Funds
Direct funds seem cheaper but come without guidance.

You may make wrong choices or panic in bad markets.

Regular funds with guidance help you stay on track.

You benefit from experience and timely reviews.

Real Estate Is Not The Right Fit
Real estate needs large capital.

It is not liquid. You can’t sell part of it.

Maintenance, paperwork, and taxes are tiring.

Mutual funds are simple and flexible.

Keep A Review Process
Every year, review your progress.

Adjust investments if your goals or life changes.

Rebalance if one fund grows more than others.

Invest With a Goal in Mind
Define your goals. Retirement? Children’s future?

Keep time and priority for each.

Map investments to each goal.

Invest Based on Risk Tolerance
Know how much risk you can take.

If unsure, take medium risk to start.

Don’t chase returns. Stay consistent.

Consider a Step-Up Plan
Increase SIP as income grows.

Even Rs. 1,000 more every year helps.

Automate Everything
Keep SIP auto-debited from your account.

You won’t miss or delay investments.

Emergency Fund First
Keep 6 months’ expenses aside.

Use savings account or liquid funds.

Tax Planning Angle
Use tax-efficient investments under tax laws.

Equity mutual funds are tax-friendly over long term.

Family and Nomination Planning
Nominate your loved ones in every investment.

Keep records updated.

Final Insights
Starting with Rs. 15,000 monthly is a good move.

Keep it steady and invest in right mutual funds.

Over time, this will grow into a large corpus.

Avoid direct funds, index funds, and real estate.

Get professional guidance to stay disciplined.

Review once a year and increase SIP slowly.

Be patient. Let time and compounding work for you.

You are already doing well. Keep going this way.

Success in money life comes from simple steps repeated for long.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Naveenn

Naveenn Kummar  |235 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 19, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi, I am 43yrs, presently earning 1.5L/month. My investment as of now : FD-17L, MF-35L, Share market-5L, EPF/PPF-25L SIP -32K/month, RD-5K/month, EPF - 17K/month, LIC - 30K/year Own a house and a 3BHK flat(current market price 50L) on rent Liabilities - EMI is 40K, will be closed by Mar-26. Medical Insurance - 10L I am single, no intention to make a family. Monthly expenses - 45-50K Want to retire by next 3-5yrs. Pls suggest a plan. Thanks in advance. BR Sourav
Ans: Dear Sourav,

Thank you for sharing your detailed profile. At 43 years old and with your goal to retire in 3–5 years, the key focus should be on cash flow management, investment allocation, and protection. Here’s a structured approach:

1. Current Financial Snapshot

Income: ?1.5 L/month

Investments:

FD: ?17 L

Mutual Funds: ?35 L

Shares: ?5 L

EPF/PPF: ?25 L

SIP: ?32K/month

RD: ?5K/month

EPF: ?17K/month

LIC: ?30K/year

Assets: Own house + 3BHK flat (?50 L, rented)

Liabilities: EMI ?40K/month (ends Mar-26)

Insurance: ?10 L medical

Monthly Expenses: ?45–50K

Status: Single, no dependents

2. Retirement Corpus Requirement

Goal: Retire in 3–5 years → early retirement at ~46–48.

To maintain current lifestyle of ?45–50K/month, considering inflation and contingencies, you would need a corpus of ~?3–4 crore for 25–30 years of post-retirement life.

Given the short time frame (3–5 years), relying solely on equity growth may not be feasible. A conservative and structured approach is required.

3. Suggested Plan
a) Debt / EMI Management

EMI of ?40K ends Mar-26 → will free up cash flow.

Avoid taking new debt; use this freed-up cash to increase investments or build cash buffer.

b) Investment Allocation

FD + EPF/PPF: Keep as liquidity + stable income

Mutual Funds + SIP: Focus on low-to-moderate risk balanced/flexi-cap funds

Equity / Shares: Limit exposure due to short horizon; consider partial profit booking if needed for retirement corpus

c) Passive Income

Rental income from 3BHK flat (~?50L property) can provide steady monthly cash flow.

Allocate some corpus to debt instruments / short-term debt MFs / MIS for regular monthly income

d) Insurance & Protection

Medical insurance ?10L is adequate; consider top-up/critical illness cover for retirement protection

Life insurance is optional given no dependents, but personal accident & disability cover is recommended

e) Expense Planning

Monthly expenses ?45–50K → maintain buffer for inflation (target 10–15% higher than current expenses)

4. Action Steps

Assess corpus needed for 3–5 years based on desired retirement lifestyle

Allocate investments into:

Short-term debt / liquid funds (for 3–5 year horizon)

Balanced/flexi-cap MFs (moderate growth + moderate risk)

Plan SWP / MIS to generate monthly cash flow for retirement

Consider consulting a QPFP professional for a detailed cash-flow projection and retirement corpus calculation

Summary:

With a short horizon of 3–5 years, focus on capital preservation + generating passive income rather than aggressive growth.

Rental income + structured SWP from mutual funds can partially fund monthly expenses.

Maintain adequate medical & accident coverage.

Meet a QPFP professional to finalize corpus target and investment plan.

Best regards,
Naveenn Kummar, BE, MBA, QPFP
Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
www.alenova.in
https://www.instagram.com/alenova_wealth

..Read more

Latest Questions
Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1839 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
Career
Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently a 1st year UG student studying engineering in Sairam Engineering College, But there the lack of exposure and strict academics feels so rigid and I don't like it that. It's like they don't gaf about skills but just wants us to memorize things and score a good CGPA, the only skill they want is you to memorize things and pass, there's even special class for students who don't perform well in academics and it is compulsory for them to attend or else the student and his/her parents needs to face authorities who lashes out. My question is when did engineering became something that requires good academics instead of actual learning and skill set. In sairam they provides us a coding platform in which we need to gain the required points for each semester which is ridiculous cuz most of the students here just look at the solution to code instead of actual debugging. I am passionate about engineering so I want to learn and experiment things instead of just memorizing, so I actually consider dropping out and I want to give jee a try and maybe viteee , srmjeee But i heard some people say SRM may provide exposure but not that good in placements. I may not be excellent at studies but my marks are decent. So gimme some insights about SRM and recommend me other colleges/universities which are good at exposure
Ans: First — your frustration is valid

What you are experiencing at Sairam is not engineering, it is rote-based credential production.

“When did engineering become memorizing instead of learning?”

Sadly, this shift happened decades ago in most Tier-3 private colleges in India.

About “coding platforms & points” – your observation is sharp

You are absolutely right:

Mandatory coding points → students copy solutions

Copying ≠ learning

Debugging & thinking are missing

This is pseudo-skill education — it looks modern but produces shallow engineers.

The fact that you noticed this in 1st year already puts you ahead of 80% students.

Should you DROP OUT and prepare for JEE / VITEEE / SRMJEEE?

Although VIT/SRM is better than Sairam Engineering College, but you may face the same problem. You will not face this type of problem only in some top IITs, but getting seat in those IITs will be difficult.
Instead of dropping immediately, consider:

???? Strategy:

Stay enrolled (degree security)

Reduce emotional investment in college rules

Use:

GitHub

Open-source projects

Hackathons

Internships (remote)

Hardware / software self-projects

This way:

College = formality

Learning = self-driven

Risk = minimal

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |646 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 07, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Dear Madam, I was a bright student during my school days and my plan was to become a civil servant but that did not succeed even after several attempts. With the advise of my brother i went ahead and pursued Masters at a normal university in Sydney. I did internship and continued staying with my job though it wasn't my field of study. After that what came as a shock was my brother's divorce. We don't know what is the actual issue till date but I tried a lot to fix the gap by talking to his ex-wife but they were very orthodox. I couldn't see my brother suffer because he had planned and arranged so much for her. I had no choice then so i try to harm his ex-wife by spoiling her reputation thinking she will come back for him. In the mean time i got married to a girl who was her relative too thinking my wife can help us in some case but she turned out to be completely in the opposite direction. She was probably convinced by my brother's ex-wife or their relatives that she is not coming back. Even then my brother tried to go meet his ex-wife through many channels. My wife did not help him at all in any aspect. Finally the divorced happened and everything ended. Now we have sought several proposals but nothing seem to be a good fit for him. Most of the girls whom we met on matrimonial sites are fake profiles with something hidden or falsely represented. I would say my brother escaped all this. But we are worried about his life now as he is already in his 40's and he seem to be struggling for a good job and finance. He is very picky probably but doesn't talk much to all of us. Sometimes he even says the game is over so no point looking at a second marriage. My wife and he fought once when he visited us because she didn't want him in our house and she created a fight putting me in the front. After that he stopped coming to our house or see us or talk to us. Things even gets worse sometimes when her brother comes and visits us and stays at our house which my parents don't like. My parents argue that your brother was not allowed to stay for few months then how come her brother is allowed for several months. What kind of partiality is that? I feel i could not do anything for him despite the fact that he is my only brother. He is good at heart and looked after me when i went abroad financially and even came to meet me few times. I tried to send him money, gifts but he is still the same. He communicates with our parents but not with me nor my wife anymore. Kindly give us a good advise.
Ans: Your brother’s distance is not a rejection of you. It is his way of protecting himself. He went through a difficult marriage, an emotional collapse, and then watched people around him — including you — react out of desperation to fix things for him. Even though your intentions came from love, he may have associated those actions with more pain and pressure. When a person has been wounded, silence feels safer than conversation. His withdrawal simply means he is tired, not that he dislikes you.
You also need to understand that the guilt you are carrying is heavier than it needs to be. You tried to intervene in his marriage because you wanted to protect him, not because you wanted to cause harm. Looking back now, with more maturity and clarity, you see the mistakes, but at that time, you were acting out of fear and love. This is why it’s important to forgive yourself instead of punishing yourself over and over.
The conflict between your wife and your brother only added another layer of stress, because it forced you into choosing sides. Your wife reacted emotionally, your brother pulled away, your parents questioned the imbalance — and in the middle of all this, you lost your sense of peace. But their disagreements are not failures on your part. They are the natural result of people operating from insecurity, fear, and past hurt.
What needs to happen now is a shift in your role. You cannot continue trying to solve everything for everyone. You cannot carry your brother’s marriage, your wife’s fears, and your parents’ judgments all at once. It’s time to step out of the role of rescuer and step into the role of a grounded, calm brother who offers presence, not solutions.
Rebuilding your bond with your brother will not come from pushing proposals, sending gifts, or trying to fix his life. It will come from offering him emotional safety. A simple message, expressing that you are sorry for any hurt, that you care for him, and that you are available whenever he feels ready, will speak louder than any effort to arrange his future. Once you send such a message, the healthiest thing you can do is give him space. Sometimes relationships repair themselves in silence, when pressure is removed.
And for yourself, healing begins when you stop believing that every problem in the family rests on your shoulders. You have given more than enough over the years. Now you deserve emotional rest. You deserve peace. You deserve to feel like a brother, not a crisis manager.
Your brother may take time, but distance does not erase love. When he feels safe, he will come closer again. Your responsibility is not to force that moment, but to make sure you are emotionally steady and ready when it happens.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 11, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear sir This is regarding my mother's financials. She is 71 years old and she earns a pension of 31k p.m. She has FD's worth 60 lacs and earns interest income of Rs.25k. I wish to know if we can buy mutual funds worth 10 lacs by diverting funds from FD for better returns. She owns a house and does not have house rent commitment . She is currently investing 10k p.m in SIP . Now the lump sum investment of 5 lacs each is intended to be done in HDFC balanced advantage fund Direct Growth and ICICI Prudential balanced advantage fund . Please advise
Ans: You are caring about your mother’s future.
This shows deep responsibility.
Her financial base also looks strong today.
Her pension gives steady cash.
Her FD interest gives extra safety.
Her home is secure.
Her SIP shows healthy discipline.

» Her Present Financial Position
Your mother is 71.
Her age makes safety a key priority.
But some growth is also needed.

She gets Rs 31000 pension each month.
This covers most basic needs.
Her FD interest adds Rs 25000 per month.
So her total monthly inflow is near Rs 56000.
This is healthy at her age.

She owns her house.
She has no rent stress.
This gives great relief.

She has FD worth Rs 60 lakh.
This gives safe income.
She also runs a SIP of Rs 10000 per month.
This is a good step.
It keeps her connected to long-term growth.

Her total structure looks balanced.
She has safety.
She has income.
She has some growth exposure.
She has low liabilities.

This is a very stable base for her age.

» Understanding Her Risk Level
At age 71, risk must be low.
But risk cannot be zero.
Zero risk pushes money into FD only.
FD return stays low.
FD return sometimes falls after tax.
FD return often stays below inflation.

This reduces future buying power.
Inflation in India stays high.
Medical costs rise fast.
Home repair costs rise.
Daily needs rise.
So some growth is needed.

Balanced exposure gives stability.
Balanced allocation protects both sides.
She should not go too high on equity.
She should not avoid equity fully.
A middle path works best at this age.

Your idea of shifting Rs 10 lakh for growth is fine.
But the type of fund must be chosen well.
The plan must also follow her age.
Her risk must be respected.

» Impact of Growth Options at Her Age
Growth funds move with markets.
Markets move up and down.
These swings can disturb seniors.
But some controlled equity helps fight inflation.

Funds with mix of equity and debt help.
They adjust risk.
They protect capital better.
They manage volatility better.
They offer smoother experience.
They suit senior citizens more.

So a mild growth approach is healthy.
This gives better long-term value.
This gives inflation protection.
This reduces long-term stress.

Still, the fund choice must be careful.
And the plan style must be guided.

» Concerns With Direct Plans
You mentioned direct funds.
Direct funds seem cheap.
But cheap is not always better.

Direct funds give no guidance.
Direct funds give no review support.
Direct funds give no risk matching.
Direct funds need constant study.
Direct funds need skill.
Direct funds need time.

Many investors think direct plans save money.
But small savings can cause big losses.
Wrong choices reduce returns.
Wrong timing reduces gains.
Wrong exit increases tax.

Regular plans bring professional support through MFDs with CFP credentials.
They offer yearly reviews.
They track risk closely.
They guide corrections.
They support crisis moments.
They help in asset mix.
They help keep emotions stable.

This support is very helpful for seniors.
Your mother will not need to study markets.
She will not need to track cycles.
She will not need to worry about volatility.
She can stay calm.

So regular plans may suit her better.
The small extra fee is actually buying professional hand-holding.
This hand-holding protects wealth.
This reduces mistakes.
This brings long-term peace.

» Her Liquidity Need
At age 71, liquidity matters.
She must access money fast during emergencies.
Medical needs can arise.
Health cost can be sudden.
She must be ready.

FD gives quick access.
This is useful.
So FD should not be reduced too much.

Shifting Rs 10 lakh is acceptable.
But shifting more may reduce comfort.
She must always feel safe.
Her emotional comfort is important.

So Rs 10 lakh is the right level.
It keeps major FD corpus safe.
It keeps growth exposure controlled.

This balance supports her peace.

» Her Current SIP
She puts Rs 10000 per month in SIP.
This is positive.
This brings slow steady growth.
This builds long-term value.

She should continue this SIP.
She may reduce it later based on comfort.
But she should not stop it now.
This SIP adds inflation protection.
This SIP builds a small buffer.

A continuous SIP helps smooth markets.
It builds confidence.

» Income Stability for Her
Her pension covers needs.
Her FD interest adds comfort.
Her SIP invests for future needs.
Her home saves rent.

So she has stable income.
Her life standard is maintained.
Her risk level can stay low.

Her monthly cash flow is positive.
Her needs are covered.
So she need not worry about returns too much.
But a little growth is still healthy.

» Should She Shift Rs 10 Lakh From FD?
Yes, she can shift Rs 10 lakh.
This does not hurt her safety.
This does not shake her cash flow.
This supports inflation protection.

But the fund must be right.
The plan must match her age.
The risk must stay low.
The allocation must stay controlled.

A balanced strategy is better.
Smooth returns suit seniors.
Moderate risk suits her age.

Still, the fund must be in regular plan.
Direct plan may cause long-term risk.
Direct plans place the heavy load on the investor.
At her age, this stress is avoidable.
Regular plans give smoother support.

» Why Not Use the Specific Schemes Mentioned
The schemes you named are direct plans.
Direct plans give no support.
Direct plans leave all decisions to you.
Direct plans leave all risk checks on you.

Also, each fund has its own style.
Each adjusts differently.
You must check suitability.
You must review them yearly.
This needs time and skill.

For her age, this is not ideal.
A simple, guided, regular plan works better.

Also, some funds change risk levels fast.
Some increase equity without warning.
Some change style in market shifts.
This can disturb seniors.
She must stay with stable funds.
She must stay with guided models.

This protects her long-term peace.

» The Role of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds suit Indian markets.
India grows fast.
Sectors rise and fall fast.
Many companies grow fast.
Many also fall fast.

Active managers study these shifts.
They adjust quicker.
They avoid weak sectors.
They add strong businesses.
They protect downside.
They enhance upside.

Index funds cannot do this.
Index funds copy indices.
Indices carry weak companies also.
Indices carry overpriced stocks.
Indices do not avoid bad phases.
Indices cannot change weight fast.
So index funds give no defensive shield.

Actively managed funds work harder.
They try to reduce shocks.
They try to smooth volatility.
This suits seniors more.

So an active regular plan through an MFD with CFP credentials is better for her.

» Tax Angle on Mutual Fund Redemption
Capital gain rules matter.
For equity funds, long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh have 12.5% tax.
Short-term gains have 20% tax.
Debt fund gains follow your tax slab.

Senior investors must plan exits well.
They must avoid excess tax shock.
They must stagger withdrawals.
They must redeem only when needed.

A guided regular plan helps avoid tax mistakes.
Direct funds offer no such guidance.

» Her Emergency Preparedness
At her age, emergency readiness is key.
She must have quick cash.
She must have easy access.
Her FD base helps this.

She has Rs 60 lakh in FD.
This is strong.
She should keep most of this.
Maybe an emergency bucket of Rs 5 to 10 lakh must stay fully liquid.

This brings peace.
This prevents panic.
This avoids forced redemption.

» Family Support System
You are involved.
This protects her retirement.
You can offer emotional help.
You can offer decision help.
This support makes her financial life safe.

Family support keeps stress low for seniors.
She will feel secure.
She will stay calm during market changes.

» How Her Future Years Can Stay Stable
She needs comfort.
She needs safety.
She needs liquidity.
She needs some growth.
She needs health cover.
She needs emotional peace.

A control-based plan helps:
– Keep most money in FD
– Keep some in balanced mutual funds
– Keep SIP running
– Keep money easily accessible
– Keep risk low
– Keep asset mix simple
– Keep tax impact low
– Keep reviews yearly

This keeps her retirement smooth.

» Built-In Protection for Senior Life
Her plan must also protect future risk.
Medical cost may rise.
Home repairs may occur.
Occasional family support may be needed.

So she must:
– Keep cash bucket
– Keep healthy insurance
– Keep documents updated
– Keep financial papers organised
– Keep digital and physical files safe

This brings long-term safety.

» Withdrawal Strategy
She may not need withdrawals now.
Her income covers expenses.
But she may need money in later years.

She should follow a layered method:

Short-term needs from FD

Medium needs from balanced funds

Long-term needs from SIP corpus

Emergency money from liquid FD

This spreads risk.
This avoids sudden losses.
This protects her capital.

» Assessing the Rs 10 Lakh Transfer
This transfer is fine.
But it must not go to direct plans.
It must go to regular plans.
Guided plans reduce mistakes.
Guided plans suit seniors.

Split into two funds is fine.
But avoid too much complexity.
Simple structure reduces stress.
Easy structure improves clarity.

So two regular plans through an MFD with CFP credentials is ideal.

» Final Insights
Your mother has a strong base.
Her pension is stable.
Her FD pool is healthy.
Her home reduces cost.
Her SIP adds growth.

Adding Rs 10 lakh into balanced mutual funds is a good idea.
But shift to regular plans with expert guidance.
Direct plans are not suitable for seniors.
They bring more risk.
They bring more complexity.
They bring more stress.

Regular plans bring reviews.
Regular plans match risk.
Regular plans reduce mistakes.
Regular plans suit her age.

Her future looks stable with this mix.
Her life can stay comfortable.
She can enjoy her senior years with peace.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi, I am 53 years with a wife and two children. My total savings comprising of MF, Shares, PDF,EPF, NPS & FD are approx. 3Cr. Our current monthly outgoing including SIPs is approximately 100000. Will the above savings amount be sufficient to sustain for the next 20 years?
Ans: You have managed to build Rs 3 Cr by age 53.
This shows steady discipline.
Your savings mix also looks balanced.
Your family seems stable.
Your cost control also looks fair.
This gives a good base for the next stage of life.

» Your Current Position
Your savings stand near Rs 3 Cr.
Your monthly outflow is near Rs 100000.
This includes your SIP amount also.
Your family has four members.
You have two children.
Your wife is with you.
You have a mixed pool across MF, shares, PF, EPF, NPS, and FD.
This mix brings both growth and stability.
This gives you a good base.

Your age is 53.
You have around 7 to 12 working years left.
This period is crucial.
Your decisions now shape the next 20 years.
Your savings rate also matters.
Your cost control also shapes the future.

Today’s numbers show you have a good foundation.
But sustainability depends on many factors.
We must study inflation, spending pattern, growth pattern, tax, risk level, health cost, and cash flow flexibility.

» Understanding the Cash Flow Stress
Your family spends around Rs 100000 today.
This includes SIP.
After retirement, SIP will stop.
But living costs will continue.
Costs increase each year.
Inflation can eat cash fast.
So we must ensure growth in wealth.
Slow growth can stress the corpus.
Fast growth brings more shocks.
So balance is key.

Rs 3 Cr looks large today.
But 20 years is long.
Inflation reduces buying power.
Medical costs also rise.
Family needs also shift.

Your money can last 20 years.
But it needs correct planning.
Blind use of the corpus will not help.
Proper flow matters.
Proper asset selection also matters.
You need steady growth.
You need low shocks.
You need stable income.

» Role of Growth Assets
Many families fear growth assets.
But growth assets are needed today.
Inflation is strong in India.
If money stays in FD only, it suffers.
FD return stays low.
Post-tax return stays even lower.
FD return does not beat inflation.
FD cannot support long-term plans.

Mutual funds bring better growth.
Actively managed funds bring better research.
They allow expert judgement.
They can handle market swings better.
They study sectors and businesses.
They adjust the portfolio.
They aim for more consistent returns.
This helps protect wealth.

Some people choose direct plans.
But direct plans need full time study.
They need skill.
They need discipline.
Most investors do not have the time.
Wrong choices can reduce returns.
Direct plans give no guidance.
Direct plans can reduce long-term peace.

Regular plans through an MFD with CFP credential give better support.
They help with reviews.
They help with corrections.
They help with rebalancing.
They help manage behaviour.
They save time and stress.

You already have MF exposure.
This is good.
You should keep this path.
Active fund management will help long-term stability.

» Role of Safety Assets
You have EPF, PPF, NPS, FD.
These give safety.
They give peace.
But they give lower return.
Too much safety reduces future income.
A mix of both is needed.

Safety assets give steady income.
But they do not grow fast.
They cannot support 20 years alone.
So balance must be kept.

» Assessing the Sustainability for 20 Years
Rs 3 Cr can support 20 years.
But it depends on:

Your retirement age

Your spending pattern

Your ability to reduce costs

Your asset mix

Your growth rate

Your inflation level

Your health cost

Your emergency needs

If your core expenses stay in control, your corpus can last.
If you invest well, your corpus can support you.
If you avoid panic, your wealth will grow.
Your children may also get settled.
Your own needs may reduce.

The key is proper planning.
Without planning, the corpus can shrink fast.
With planning, it will last long.

» Inflation Impact
Inflation is silent.
It eats buying power.
Costs double every few years.
Food rises.
Health rises.
Daily life rises.
School fees rise.
Lifestyle rises.

If your money grows slower than inflation, you lose power.
So growth assets must be part of the plan.
They help beat inflation.
They help protect lifestyle.
They help support long-term needs.

This is why active mutual funds stay useful.
They bring research-driven decisions.
They help fight inflation better.
They stay flexible.
They move with the economy.

» Evaluating Your Retirement Readiness
You stand near retirement zone.
You still have some working life.
You still earn.
You still save.
Your income supports your SIP.
This is good.
This is the right stage to improve planning.

Your SIP amount builds future cash.
Your insurance must be proper.
Your emergency fund must be strong.
Your health cover must be strong.

You have PF and NPS.
These give safety.
They bring stability.
They give steady return.
But they do not give high return.
Growth will come from MF and equity.

Your retirement readiness depends on:

Cash flow plan

Growth plan

Insurance plan

Medical cover plan

Long-term income plan

Withdrawal plan

When all parts align, you will stay secure.

» Withdrawal Strategy for the Future
When you retire, cash flow must stay smooth.
You cannot depend on FD alone.
You cannot depend only on EPF.
You cannot depend on one asset class.
You need a mix.

Your withdrawal should come from:

Some from safety assets

Some from growth assets

Some from periodic rebalancing

This helps you avoid panic selling.
This helps you maintain stability.
This protects your lifestyle.

Tax must also be managed.
Tax on equity MF has new rules.
Long-term gain above Rs 1.25 lakh has 12.5% tax.
Short-term gain has 20% tax.
Debt MF gain follows your tax slab.
These rules shape your withdrawal plan.
You must plan redemptions wisely.

» Health and Family Factors
Health cost is rising in India.
Hospital bills rise fast.
Health shocks drain savings.
So good health cover is needed.
Family needs must be studied.

Your children may still need some support.
Their education or marriage may need funds.
These costs must be planned early.
You should not dip into retirement money.
Clear planning avoids stress.

Your wife also needs future support.
Joint planning is better.
Shared decisions help discipline.

» Need for a Structured Review
A structured review every year is needed.
Your income may change.
Your savings may rise.
Your spending may shift.
Your goals may change.
Your risk level may shift.
Your family needs may change.

Review helps you stay on track.
Review helps catch issues early.
Review helps you correct mistakes.
Review brings peace.

A Certified Financial Planner can guide reviews.
This support builds confidence.
This reduces stress.
This brings clarity.

» How to Strengthen Your Position
You already stand strong.
But you can still improve.
Here are some steps to make your 20 years safer.

Keep your growth-safety mix balanced

Increase your SIP when income allows

Avoid direct plans if guidance needed

Use regular plans for proper support

Avoid real estate due to low returns

Increase your emergency fund

Improve your health cover

Avoid ULIP and mixed plans if you ever have them

Review your EPF and NPS allocation

Track your spending carefully

Plan for yearly rebalancing

Keep enough liquidity for short needs

Keep boredom decisions away

Stay invested even in tough times

Trust long-term compounding

Each step adds stability.
Your family will feel safe.

» Building a Strong Future Income Flow
Income must not come from one basket.
Income should come from:

MF SWP

PF interest

FD ladder

NPS withdrawal in a slow way

Equity redemption in a planned way

This spreads risk.
This spreads tax.
This spreads stress.

Staggered withdrawal helps peace.
Your money grows even while you spend.
Your corpus stays healthy.

» Maintaining Low Stress in Retirement
Retirement should be peaceful.
Money stress should be low.
Good planning ensures this.

Keep clear communication with your family.
Keep your files organised.
Keep your goals updated.
Keep calm during market swings.

Your corpus can support you.
Your strategy will shape your peace.

» Final Insights
Your Rs 3 Cr corpus is a strong base.
Your age gives you time to improve more.
Your monthly spending is manageable.
Your asset mix supports your future.

But planning is needed.
Cash flow must be aligned with inflation.
Growth assets must stay active.
Safety assets must be balanced.
Withdrawal must be planned wisely.
Health cost must be covered.
Risk must be contained.

With proper planning, your wealth can support the next 20 years.
Your family can live with comfort.
Your lifestyle can stay stable.
Your future can stay safe.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...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.

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