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

Sanjeev Govila  | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Jan 23, 2024

Colonel Sanjeev Govila (retd) is the founder of Hum Fauji Initiatives, a financial planning company dedicated to the armed forces personnel and their families.
He has over 12 years of experience in financial planning and is a SEBI certified registered investment advisor; he is also accredited with AMFI and IRDA.... more
A Question by A on Jan 06, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

Hello sir I am 48 year old i have not invested in any savings as of now I want to start please help me I am a self employed

Ans: Certainly! It's never too late to start investing. Here are steps you can take to begin your savings and investment journey:

Emergency Fund: Start by building an emergency fund equivalent to 3-6 months of your living expenses. This fund provides financial security in case of unexpected expenses or loss of income.

Retirement Planning: Evaluate your retirement goals and estimate the amount you'll need. Consider options like Public Provident Fund (PPF), National Pension System (NPS), and systematic investments in mutual funds for long-term growth.

Debt Reduction: If you have high-interest debt, prioritize paying it off. Reducing debt can free up more money for investments.

Diversified Portfolio: Build a diversified investment portfolio that includes a mix of equity, debt, and possibly real estate based on your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): Consider starting a SIP in mutual funds. This allows you to invest regularly in a disciplined manner, benefitting from rupee cost averaging.

Insurance Coverage: Ensure you have adequate health and life insurance coverage. This protects you and your family from unforeseen medical expenses and provides financial support in case of any unfortunate events.

Professional Advice: Consult with a financial advisor. They can help tailor an investment plan based on your unique financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance.

Tax Planning: Explore tax-saving investment options like Equity-Linked Saving Schemes (ELSS) and other tax-saving instruments to optimize your tax liability.
Stay Informed:

Remember, it's crucial to align your investments with your financial goals and regularly reassess your strategy. Consult with a financial advisor to create a personalized plan that suits your specific circumstances and aspirations
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  |10956 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - May 18, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi sir my age is 29 how to start in investment my one income 900 rupees I don't have any savings please help me how to savings stat and investment plans
Ans: It's great that you want to start investing and saving. With an income of ?900 per month, it can be challenging, but every small step counts. Let’s explore how you can begin saving and investing.

Understanding Your Current Financial Situation
First, understand your income and expenses. Track your monthly spending to identify areas where you can cut back. Even small savings can add up over time.

Setting Realistic Goals
Start with small, achievable goals. Aim to save a portion of your income each month. This helps build a habit of saving.

Creating a Budget
Track Income and Expenses

List all your monthly income and expenses.
Identify non-essential expenses you can reduce or eliminate.
Allocate Savings

Aim to save at least 10% of your income. With ?900, this means saving ?90 each month.
Emergency Fund

Build an emergency fund for unexpected expenses. Start small, aim for ?500 initially.
Saving Methods
Savings Account

Open a basic savings account. It’s safe and earns a small interest.
Recurring Deposit (RD)

Consider starting a recurring deposit with your bank. You can deposit a small fixed amount each month. It’s a disciplined way to save.
Basic Investment Options
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)

Start a SIP with as little as ?500 per month. Mutual funds have options for low initial investments. SIPs help in disciplined investing and can offer good returns over time.
Public Provident Fund (PPF)

PPF is a safe and long-term investment option. You can start with small amounts and increase contributions as your income grows.
Government Schemes
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)

Open a Jan Dhan account. It offers no minimum balance requirement and other benefits like insurance.
Atal Pension Yojana (APY)

A pension scheme for workers in the unorganised sector. You can contribute small amounts to secure your retirement.
Increasing Your Income
Skill Development

Invest in learning new skills to increase your earning potential. Look for free or low-cost courses online.
Part-Time Work

Consider part-time jobs or freelancing to supplement your income. This additional income can boost your savings and investment capacity.
Discipline and Patience
Consistency

Regular saving and investing, no matter how small, will yield results over time. Be consistent with your contributions.
Avoid Debt

Avoid unnecessary loans or credit. If you must borrow, ensure you can manage the repayments.
Reviewing and Adjusting
Regular Review

Review your budget and savings plan regularly. Adjust your savings and investment as your income grows.
Seek Advice

Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice as your financial situation evolves.

Starting with a small income can be tough, but your determination to save and invest is commendable. Every rupee saved is a step towards financial security. Stay committed, and over time, you’ll see the benefits of your disciplined approach.

Conclusion
Beginning your investment journey at 29 with a limited income is challenging but possible. Start by creating a budget, saving consistently, and exploring safe investment options. Increase your income through skill development and part-time work. Regularly review your progress and adjust your plan as needed. Your commitment to saving and investing will pave the way for a secure financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10956 Answers  |Ask -

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

Listen
Money
Hi sir my age is 29 don't have any savings How to start savings one my income 900 rupees
Ans: It's commendable that you're keen to embark on your savings journey despite facing financial constraints. Let's explore practical strategies to kickstart your savings plan and build a secure financial future.

Understanding Your Financial Situation

Before diving into savings strategies, let's assess your current financial landscape and identify areas where you can optimize your resources.

Assessment of Financial Position:

At 29 years old and with an income of ?900 per month, you're at the beginning of your financial journey. It's essential to recognize your income level and prioritize prudent financial habits to lay a solid foundation for the future.

1. Budgeting Essentials:

Creating and adhering to a budget is fundamental to effective financial management, irrespective of income level.

Income Evaluation: Start by mapping out your monthly income sources, including salary, allowances, and any additional earnings.
Expense Analysis: Track your expenses meticulously to identify discretionary and non-discretionary spending categories. This will help pinpoint areas where you can cut back and redirect funds towards savings.
Prioritize Savings: Allocate a portion of your income towards savings as a non-negotiable expense. Even a modest amount can accumulate over time and contribute to your financial security.
2. Cultivating Saving Habits:

Inculcating disciplined saving habits is key to achieving your financial goals, regardless of your income level.

Start Small: Begin by setting achievable savings targets that align with your income and expenses. Even saving a nominal amount regularly can foster a habit of thriftiness and financial discipline.
Automate Savings: Explore options to automate your savings process, such as setting up recurring transfers to a designated savings account. This removes the temptation to spend and ensures consistent contributions towards your savings goals.
Track Progress: Monitor your savings progress regularly and celebrate milestones along the way. Seeing your savings grow can motivate you to stay committed to your financial objectives.
3. Exploring Income Enhancement Opportunities:

While your current income may be limited, exploring avenues to augment your earnings can bolster your savings potential.

Skill Development: Invest in acquiring new skills or enhancing existing ones that can increase your employability and earning potential. Consider online courses, vocational training programs, or freelance opportunities.
Side Hustles: Explore part-time or freelance gigs that complement your skills and interests. From freelance writing to tutoring, there are myriad opportunities to earn additional income outside of your primary job.
4. Seeking Professional Guidance:

Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to devise a tailored savings strategy that aligns with your financial goals and aspirations. A financial planner can provide personalized guidance and recommendations based on your unique circumstances.

Conclusion

Initiating savings on a limited income may seem daunting, but with strategic planning, discipline, and perseverance, it's entirely achievable. By prioritizing budgeting, cultivating saving habits, exploring income enhancement opportunities, and seeking professional guidance, you can lay a strong foundation for a secure financial future.

Best Regards,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10956 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 02, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello Sir my age 40 till now i am not having any savings my monthly salary 15000/- can you help me out for investing
Ans: Financial Assessment

Your monthly salary is Rs. 15,000.
You have no savings at age 40.
Starting to save now is very important.

Budgeting

Make a list of all your monthly expenses.
Find areas where you can cut back.
Try to save at least 10% of your income.

Emergency Fund

Start building an emergency fund first.
Aim for 3-6 months of expenses.
Keep this money in a savings account.

Insurance

Get a term life insurance policy.
Health insurance is also very important.
These protect your family from financial troubles.

Small Savings

Start with small, regular savings.
Even Rs. 500-1000 per month can make a difference.
Increase the amount as your income grows.

Investment Options

Mutual funds can be good for long-term growth.
Start with balanced or conservative funds.
Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner.

Retirement Planning

It's not too late to start planning for retirement.
Even small amounts invested regularly can grow over time.
Consider PPF or NPS for tax benefits.

Skill Enhancement

Look for ways to increase your income.
Learn new skills that can help you earn more.
This can help you save and invest more.

Debt Management

Avoid taking high-interest loans.
If you have debts, make a plan to pay them off.
Clearing debts is as important as saving.

Regular Review

Check your budget and savings every month.
Adjust your plan as your situation changes.
Stay committed to your financial goals.

Finally

It's great that you want to start saving.
Be patient and consistent with your efforts.
Small steps now can lead to big results later.

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10956 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 13, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 11, 2026Hindi
Money
have lic jeevan saral policy plan 165 from June 2011 for 15 years with life coverage of Rs50000/- . Age at the time of policy 51 and Yearly premium Rs 24260/ Please inform maturity value at June 2026
Ans: I appreciate your patience in holding this policy for many years.
Many people continue such policies without clarity.
You are doing the right thing by seeking understanding now.
This shows maturity and financial awareness.

» Basic Understanding of Your Policy
– You started the policy in June 2011.
– Policy term is 15 years.
– Maturity is due in June 2026.
– Entry age was 51 years.
– Yearly premium is Rs 24,260.
– Life cover is only Rs 50,000.

This policy is insurance plus savings combined.
Such policies focus more on forced savings.
Protection element is very small.

» Total Premium Paid Over Policy Term
– You pay premium for full 15 years.
– Yearly premium remains constant.
– Premium payment ends before maturity.

By maturity, total premium paid will be substantial.
This is important for comparison.

» How Maturity Value Is Decided
– This policy does not give bonus like others.
– It works on a maturity value factor system.
– Maturity value depends on age and term.
– Loyalty additions may be added at maturity.

Returns are pre-declared, not market linked.

» Expected Maturity Value Range
– For your age and premium, returns are modest.
– Such policies generally give low annual growth.
– Growth is closer to traditional savings products.

Based on past experience with similar cases:
– Maturity value is usually between Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 5.2 lakh.

This is an approximate range.
Exact figure depends on final loyalty addition.

» Why Maturity Value Feels Low
– Large part of premium goes toward costs.
– Mortality charges are high due to entry age.
– Returns are not linked to equity growth.

These factors reduce wealth creation potential.

» Life Cover Assessment
– Life cover is only Rs 50,000.
– This amount is too small today.
– It does not protect family needs.

Insurance objective is not fulfilled properly.

» Investment Assessment
– Policy forces discipline, not growth.
– Returns do not beat long-term inflation.
– Purchasing power reduces over time.

This impacts real wealth.

» Liquidity Aspect
– Money is locked for long term.
– Exit before maturity causes loss.
– Flexibility is limited.

This restricts financial freedom.

» Risk Versus Reward Balance
– Risk is low.
– Reward is also low.
– Long holding period gives limited benefit.

Such balance does not suit wealth creation.

» Tax Aspect at Maturity
– Maturity proceeds are usually tax free.
– This is a positive aspect.
– But tax benefit alone is not enough.

Net outcome still remains weak.

» Emotional Attachment Factor
– Long association builds emotional comfort.
– Familiarity creates false security.
– Numbers should guide decisions.

Money decisions must be practical.

» Opportunity Cost Over 15 Years
– Same premium invested differently grows better.
– Time value of money is lost here.
– Compounding opportunity is underused.

This is the hidden cost.

» Should You Continue Till Maturity
– You are very close to maturity now.
– Only limited premiums remain.
– Exit now may reduce value.

From pure practicality, holding till maturity makes sense.

» What To Do After Maturity
– Do not reinvest maturity money here again.
– Do not buy similar policies.
– Separate insurance and investment clearly.

This improves clarity and control.

» Insurance Requirement Going Forward
– Insurance should be pure protection.
– Cover amount should be meaningful.
– Premium should be affordable.

This protects family properly.

» Investment Requirement Going Forward
– Investments should focus on growth.
– Long-term horizon suits market-linked options.
– Discipline should be maintained separately.

This builds real wealth.

» Why Such Policies Are Not Ideal
– They mix two different objectives.
– They dilute both protection and growth.
– Transparency is low.

Clarity always wins financially.

» Should You Surrender Similar Policies
– Yes, for long-term underperforming policies.
– Especially investment-cum-insurance types.
– Evaluate surrender versus paid-up carefully.

Each policy needs separate review.

» If You Hold Any Other LIC Policies
– Check premium versus life cover ratio.
– Review maturity value realistically.
– Assess opportunity cost honestly.

Do not assume all LIC policies are safe wealth tools.

» Behavioural Lesson From This Policy
– Forced savings feels comfortable.
– Comfort does not equal efficiency.
– Awareness changes future outcomes.

This lesson is valuable.

» 360 Degree View of Your Policy
– Protection is inadequate.
– Returns are low.
– Liquidity is poor.
– Tax benefit is limited advantage.

Overall outcome is average at best.

» Positive Side You Should Acknowledge
– You maintained long-term discipline.
– You honoured commitments regularly.
– You avoided policy lapsation.

This discipline is powerful.

» How To Use This Discipline Better
– Channel it into transparent investments.
– Keep insurance purely for protection.
– Review annually with clarity.

Discipline plus right structure creates wealth.

» Finally
– Expected maturity value is around Rs 4.5 to 5.2 lakh.
– Exact amount will be known near June 2026.
– Holding till maturity is sensible now.
– Avoid repeating similar products later.

You are in a position to improve future outcomes.
This awareness itself is progress.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10956 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 13, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 10, 2026Hindi
Money
Sir I have Aviva life insurance policy premium payable 10 years,I have already paid 5 years, I want to discontinue, can I and how much surrender value can I get.
Ans: I appreciate that you are taking a clear decision about your Aviva life insurance policy.
You have courage to review and possibly improve your financial choices.
This step shows responsibility and seriousness about money.

» Can You Discontinue / Surrender the Policy
– Yes, most Aviva regular premium life policies allow surrender after some years of premium paid.
– If you have paid at least the minimum required number of premiums, you can get surrender value.
– Most Aviva plans require at least 3 years’ premiums before surrender value applies.
– If you have paid 5 years already, you satisfy this condition in most cases.

So yes, you can discontinue and surrender the policy now.

» What Happens When You Surrender
– When you surrender, the policy stops.
– All life cover, benefits and future bonuses stop immediately.
– You get a surrender value based on premiums paid and the rules of your policy.

» How Much Surrender Value You Might Get
Exact amount depends on your specific policy terms. But typical factors are:

– Insurance companies usually pay a Guaranteed Surrender Value.
– They sometimes also pay a Special Surrender Value if it is higher.
– You get the higher of Guaranteed or Special Surrender Value.

For many Aviva regular premium plans, a typical Guaranteed Surrender Value pattern looks like this:

– After 3 years: about 30%
– After 4 years: about 50%
– After 5 years: about 55%
– After 6 years: about 57.5%
– After 7 years: about 60%
– After 8 years: about 65%
– After 9 years: about 70%
– After 10 years: about 90%
– After full term: 100% of premiums paid

So if you have paid 5 years of premiums:
– You may receive roughly around 50% to 60% of your total paid premiums as surrender value.

The actual number will be based on your exact policy contract.

» Example (Illustrative Only)
If you paid Rs 1,00,000 total premiums by 5 years:
– Surrender value might be roughly between Rs 55,000 and Rs 60,000 under standard terms.

This is not exact for your case.
It is just to help you understand the mechanism.

» Special Surrender Value Component
– In some policies, the insurer may credit a special surrender value.
– This may include some part of bonuses or reserves.
– If it is higher than Guaranteed Surrender Value, you get that instead.
– Special values may change over time with company policy and regulator approval.

» What Documents You Need to Submit
Generally, you need these:
– Surrender discharge form from insurer.
– Original policy
– KYC documents like PAN and Aadhaar.
– Cancelled cheque for bank account.

The insurer will guide you with forms.

» What Happens After You Submit Surrender Request
– Company reviews premium history.
– They compute surrender value.
– They pay you the higher of Guaranteed or Special Surrender Value.
– This amount is paid to your bank account.

» Tax on Surrender Value
– Surrender value of life insurance can be taxable.
– It may be treated as income from other sources in some cases.
– Tax depends on policy type and premium structure.

You should confirm tax treatment before finalising surrender.

» Things to Know Before You Surrender
– You lose life cover immediately.
– You lose future bonuses if any.
– Surrender value is often much lower than premiums paid.
– Early exit penalties apply in many policies.

Surrendering is possible, but cost can be high.

» Why Surrender Value Is Lower
– Insurers recover acquisition costs and commission.
– Early exit penalties apply.
– This structure impacts early-year exits heavily.

Because of these reasons, surrender value feels disappointing.

» Should You Consider Alternatives
Before surrendering fully, consider:
– Paid-up option.
– You stop premiums but keep reduced benefits.

Paid-up may give better value than immediate surrender.

Your exact option depends on policy terms.

» Important to Check in Your Policy
Ask for a written statement showing:
– Guaranteed surrender value as on date.
– Special surrender value, if available.
– Paid-up benefit details.
– Impact on coverage and future benefits.

Always take figures in writing.

» Next Step for You
– Contact Aviva customer service.
– Ask for surrender value quote today.
– Ask for paid-up option quote also.
– Compare both before deciding.

Getting clarity reduces regret later.

Finally, you are free to stop the policy now.
But surrender value will be lower than premiums paid.
Decision should balance loss versus future benefit.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |6769 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Jan 13, 2026

Career
Sir, I completed my 12th standard from CBSE with PCM in 2025, and I am currently preparing for the COMEDK exam, through which admissions are given to top private engineering colleges in Bangalore. However, my 12th result was not very good because I did not prepare properly. As a result, I got an RT (Repeat in Theory) in Chemistry. In my CBSE marksheet, I am shown as overall pass because I had taken six subjects, due to which Chemistry became an additional subject. As you know, Chemistry is a compulsory subject for engineering colleges, so I appeared for the NIOS On-Demand Improvement Examination for only the Chemistry subject, and I have passed it. Sir, I want to know whether two marksheets from different boards—one being the CBSE marksheet showing overall pass, and the other being the NIOS marksheet for a single-subject improvement in Chemistry—are accepted by top private engineering colleges in Bangalore. Also, will these documents be accepted during COMEDK counselling document verification?
Ans: Yes. Generally, top private engineering colleges and COMEDK counselling accept a CBSE overall pass marksheet along with an NIOS single-subject Chemistry pass marksheet, provided Chemistry is passed, and you meet eligibility. Still, final acceptance depends on COMEDK/college verification rules. However, it is highly recommended that you carefully review the COMDEK brochure. If you have doubts about our clarification or reply, it would be better to visit the administrative office of any top engineering college in person and ask them directly without any hesitation to resolve your problems/doubts across the table instantly. With this, you will be free from stress that you hold in your mind. Now, focus more on COMDEK and try to score more. Best of luck to your bright future.

Good luck.
Follow me if you receive this reply.
Radheshyam

...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