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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9865 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 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
Asked by Anonymous - May 08, 2024Hindi
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Hello dear, i am currently 33 year old and am doing an sip of 39k per month for the last one year (5k in canara robecco small cap & sbi magnum midcap fund & pgim midcap opportunities, 8k in nippon small cap, 4k in tata small cap & parar parekh flexi cap fund , 3k in icici value discovery fund , 2.5k in mirae asset flexi cap & canara robecco flexi cap fund. Apart from that i have 32k per month put in RDs, 22k in chitt funds, 12.5k in sukanya samridhi yogana , 12.5 in. Nps tier -1. Will be it be enough to build a corpus of 5-6 crore after 25 years for retirement?

Ans: It's commendable that you're actively investing towards your retirement at such a young age. Let's assess your current investment strategy and whether it's sufficient to build a corpus of 5-6 crores over 25 years.

Analysis of Current Investments
SIPs in Mutual Funds
Diversification: Your SIPs across various categories such as small-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds demonstrate a diversified approach to equity investments.
Consistency: Consistently investing in SIPs over the long term can potentially generate significant wealth through the power of compounding.
Other Investments
RDs: Investing in recurring deposits provides a secure avenue for accumulating savings over time, although the returns may be modest compared to equity investments.
Chit Funds: Chit funds offer a traditional savings mechanism, but ensure that they align with your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: This scheme is ideal for long-term savings for your daughter's education or marriage, offering attractive interest rates and tax benefits.
NPS Tier-1: Contributing to NPS enhances your retirement savings, providing tax benefits and the potential for long-term growth.
Assessing Retirement Corpus Target
Retirement Goals
Corpus Requirement: To achieve a retirement corpus of 5-6 crores over 25 years, you need to estimate your future expenses, accounting for inflation and lifestyle expectations.
Investment Growth: Evaluate the expected growth rate of your investments, considering historical performance and market conditions.
Strategies for Building Retirement Corpus
Increase Investment Contributions
SIP Amount: Consider gradually increasing your SIP contributions annually to accelerate wealth accumulation and keep pace with inflation.
Additional Investments: Allocate any surplus income towards additional investments in mutual funds or other suitable avenues to boost your retirement corpus.
Optimize Investment Portfolio
Review and Rebalance: Periodically review your mutual fund portfolio and make necessary adjustments to ensure alignment with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Asset Allocation: Maintain a balanced asset allocation strategy, diversifying across equity, debt, and other asset classes to manage risk effectively.
Retirement Planning Tools
Retirement Calculators: Utilize online retirement calculators to estimate your future financial needs and determine if your current savings and investments are on track to meet your retirement goals.
Professional Advice: Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner who can provide personalized advice tailored to your specific financial situation and retirement objectives.
Conclusion
While your current investment strategy demonstrates a proactive approach towards retirement planning, achieving a corpus of 5-6 crores over 25 years requires consistent savings, disciplined investing, and periodic review of your financial plan. By optimizing your investment contributions, diversifying your portfolio, and utilizing retirement planning tools, you can work towards securing a comfortable retirement lifestyle.

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  |9865 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 14, 2024

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I am 47 yrs old & have currently 3 SIP's of 10K each. 1) Parag Parekh Flexicap- ?5K 2) Kotak Emerging Equity Fund-?2500 3) Axis Small Cap Fund- ?2500 I wanted to have a Corpus of atleast 3-5 Crore in next 13 yrs till my age of 60 yrs. Should I continue with d above 3 schemes & how much SIP amt do I need to invest inorder to acheive the Corpus.
Ans: That's great you're already investing through SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans)! It shows you're on the right track to building your retirement corpus. Let's analyze your current portfolio and discuss how to reach your goals:

1. Good Start with SIPs!

Three SIPs Running! Your current SIPs of Rs. 10,000 each in a Flexi Cap, Emerging Equity, and Small Cap Fund provide some diversification across market capitalizations. This is a good starting point.

Goal in Mind! You aim for a corpus of Rs. 3-5 crore in 13 years. This requires careful planning and potentially increasing your investment amount.

2. Reaching Your Target:

Planning is Key! Accurately calculating the exact SIP amount needed is difficult without considering factors like your current corpus, expected return rate, and inflation. However, we can discuss strategies.

Review and Increase? A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can analyze your situation and suggest if you need to increase your SIP amounts to reach your target corpus. They can also consider adding other asset classes for a more balanced approach.

3. Review and Rebalance:

Market Changes! The market keeps changing, and what looks good today might not be suitable tomorrow. It's important to periodically review your portfolio with a CFP.

Stay on Track! Regularly rebalancing your portfolio helps you maintain your target asset allocation and manage risk. A CFP can guide you on how often to review and rebalance.

4. Actively Managed Funds:

Pick Winners! Your chosen funds are actively managed, meaning fund managers try to outperform the market by picking stocks they believe will grow. Actively managed funds can outperform the market, but there's no guarantee.

Consider Your Risk: Actively managed funds tend to have higher fees than passively managed Index Funds. A CFP can help you assess your risk tolerance and choose funds that align with your goals.

Remember, reaching your target corpus requires a disciplined approach, potentially increasing your SIP amounts, and regular review with a CFP. Consulting a CFP can help you create a personalized plan and increase your chances of success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9865 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 16, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 16, 2024Hindi
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I am 37 years , married with 2 years old child, planning for retirement, education and marriage of child.. i have 12 l in FD, 21 l in lumpsum mutual fund, SIP for a year totalling 17000 per month, total assets worth 3 crores.. health insurance worth 1 crore. 3 term plans being paid for and active.. and i make 1.5 lakhs give or take a month.. .. i have started contributing to ssy account and have a education policy in aditya birla too worth around 8 lakhs at the time of maturity .. i have one pension fund being paid for 58000 per year for 15 years, already paid for 10 years... I need a corpus of 5 to 7crores within next 25 years.. am i doing enough? I have no loans or liabilities
Ans: You're on a solid path with your financial planning. Let's assess and refine your strategy to achieve your goals.

Review Current Investments

Your FD of Rs 12 lakhs and lump sum mutual funds of Rs 21 lakhs are good. Your SIP of Rs 17,000 per month shows discipline.

Consider Increasing SIP Amounts

Increasing your SIP amounts gradually can help you reach your corpus goal faster. This can leverage the power of compounding.

Allocate Funds for Retirement

Your goal of 5 to 7 crores in 25 years is achievable. Continue investing in diversified equity mutual funds for long-term growth.

Child's Education and Marriage

Your SSY contributions are a smart move. Consider child-specific mutual funds for additional growth.

Evaluate Your Pension Fund

Your pension fund contribution of Rs 58,000 per year is good. Ensure it aligns with your retirement goals.

Health and Term Insurance

Your health insurance worth Rs 1 crore and three term plans provide good coverage. Maintain these for family security.

Regularly Review and Adjust

Review your portfolio annually. Adjust based on market conditions and personal financial changes.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner

A CFP can help optimize your investment strategy. They can provide tailored advice for reaching your financial goals.

Stay Focused and Disciplined

Consistent investing and disciplined saving are key. Stay focused on your long-term goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

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SO dear sir continuing the same question "Differnce between CE and CSE" which should i choose CE at Shri Vishwakarma Skill University or CSE At IKGPTU MOHALI
Ans: Ansh, Based on the following insights/information, your interests & long-term goals, choose the more suitable option for you: Computer Engineering at Shri Vishwakarma Skill University (SVSU), Haryana, is designed with an industry-integrated curriculum emphasizing practical, skill-based learning, offering hands-on experience in AI, data science, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. SVSU follows a dual-education model inspired by the German system, where students actively engage with industry partners through on-the-job training and real-world projects, enhancing employability. The university boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure and expert faculty, but being a newer state university, its placement outcomes are growing, with placement rates reported up to 81% and median salaries between ?1.9–2.2L in recent years, predominantly in regional and emerging IT sectors. IKGPTU Mohali, meanwhile, provides a traditional B.Tech CSE program with dedicated specializations and larger intakes, supported by well-qualified faculty, ICT-enabled classrooms, and strong academic-industry linkages in Punjab’s prominent IT hub. Placement records at IKGPTU Mohali indicate 44% placement for B.Tech 2023 graduates and a median package of ?5L, with recruiters like TCS, Infosys, and HDFC Bank regularly conducting drives. The Mohali campus is centrally located with robust infrastructure, reputed alumni, and career support through joint campus placement drives and specialized training programs.

CSE at IKGPTU Mohali is the preferred option for its higher placement rate, better industry connectivity, advanced infrastructure, and stronger reputation within the IT sector, making it a more reliable pathway to robust career opportunities in computer science compared to SVSU Computer Engineering. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

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Asked by Anonymous - Jul 28, 2025Hindi
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Sir,Still Not got answer .Please answer .My JEE Main rank is 24935 .I have also chance to get dual degree in BITSAT .How is dual degree of BITSAT ?whether it is apt to join in anticipation of getting CS or EC there afterwards .I have other option to get top Branches through JEE Main Marks .Viz; BIT Mesra ,IIITs ,Lower NITs
Ans: The BITSAT dual degree program, offered mainly at BITS Pilani and Goa campuses, is a five-year integrated course that awards both an MSc and a BE degree. The unique feature is that students admitted to MSc programs can “slide” into sought-after BE branches—including CSE (Computer Science) and ECE (Electronics & Communication)—after the first year, subject to branch change rules based on cumulative CGPA. Historically, a high CGPA (typically above 8.0–8.5) in the first two semesters is required for a successful transfer into BE CSE or ECE, making it competitive but attainable for focused, hard-working students. Dual degree holders benefit from rigorous interdisciplinary training and robust placement support, with BITS Pilani consistently recording strong placement percentages for both BE and dual degree graduates in top tech firms and core sectors. The key challenge is heavy academic load, especially during the third and fourth years, balancing requirements of both degrees, and maintaining high grades to ensure preferred branch allocation. However, dualites enjoy the flexibility to specialize further, and their exposure to science and engineering enhances employability compared to many single-degree peers. In contrast, top branches at BIT Mesra, IIITs (like IIIT Hyderabad or Bangalore), and lower NITs offer well-established BTech programs with high placement rates (around 75% for CSE at BIT Mesra, many IIITs exceeding 80–90%, and most NITs/IIITs providing reliable industry linkages, alumni networks, and diverse placements). Cutoffs for core branches like CSE or ECE at these institutes usually hover around your JEE rank, so you stand a realistic chance of securing a seat. BIT Mesra and leading IIITs provide excellent campus life, updated infrastructure, research opportunities, and corporate visibility, with direct entry into CSE or allied branches.

Recommendation
In order of preference, BITS Pilani or Goa dual degree (if you are committed to keeping a high CGPA for CSE/ECE branch change) is an outstanding choice due to brand value, academic freedom, and placement support. However, if you prefer a straightforward path with less risk, top IIITs and BIT Mesra’s CSE or ECE, followed by good NITs, are excellent for quality education and career growth. Choose BITS dual degree only if confident of excelling academically early; otherwise, a direct CSE/ECE seat from your JEE Main rank is the prudent path. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

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Sir I didn't get any seat in the comedk 1st round allotment as I needed cse courses and the east point college cse with data science cutoff was 67k this round and my rank is 69k should I wait for round 2 and please suggest me some colleges for cse courses which I will get in round 2 please help
Ans: With a COMEDK rank of 69,000, it’s normal not to secure CSE seats in the first allotment at colleges like East Point College, as their first-round cutoff for CSE with Data Science closed near 67,000. In Round 2, cutoffs for several Bengaluru engineering colleges offering CSE tend to rise, and historical trends show that ranks up to 70,000–72,000 can secure seats in reputable options due to seat withdrawals and reduced demand. The key aspects to focus on are placement performance, faculty strength, campus infrastructure, peer learning opportunity, and degree reputation. For your rank, confirmed CSE admission options in Bengaluru include: East West College of Engineering (Yelahanka), East West Institute of Technology (BEL Layout), Brindavan College of Engineering (Yelahanka), Sri Sairam College of Engineering (Anekal), Gopalan College of Engineering and Management (Whitefield), Cambridge Institute of Technology (KR Puram), Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology (RT Nagar), Vemana Institute of Technology (Koramangala), Jyothy Institute of Technology (Thathaguni), and Sri Venkateshwara College of Engineering (KIAL Road). These colleges have consistently extended their CSE cutoffs beyond 67,000 in recent years. Many of these institutes are NAAC-accredited, offer contemporary labs and digital classrooms, and are staffed with experienced faculty. Placement cells are active—ranging from regular tech recruiters to mid-sized IT firms—and campus resources support both academic growth and personality development.

For the placement records over the last three years: East West College of Engineering and East West Institute of Technology maintain CSE placement rates of 70–80% with regular visits from Infosys, Tech Mahindra, and Accenture. Brindavan College of Engineering and Sri Sairam College have recorded similar trends, achieving nearly 75% placement for eligible CSE students with core IT and startup offers. Gopalan and Cambridge Institutes average 65–78% placements, reporting improving statistics each year, especially as Bangalore’s tech sector draws more hiring for software, testing, and data roles. Vemana, Jyothy, and Sri Venkateshwara regularly reach 60–75% success for CSE, with alumni placed in both IT services and product companies. Rajiv Gandhi Institute and Sri Venkateshwara have industry collaborations for internships and hackathons, often supporting projects that attract on-campus job offers. Across these colleges, CSE batches benefit from curricular exposure to Python, Java, basic ML, and web development. Many colleges encourage national-level coding competitions and certifications, directly enhancing employability.

You can confidently wait for Round 2, as you have a very high chance of securing CSE at one of these institutes due to expected cutoff movement, especially after withdrawals. While getting a significantly better college than East Point in Round 2 is unlikely, similar or equivalent choices—such as East West Institute or Brindavan—are assured, and all deliver solid foundational opportunities for a CSE career. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 28, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir.. My daughter wants clarity from you for B tech cse admission with what specialisation of AI or Quantum computing? Please clarify sir
Ans: B.Tech CSE with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence (AI) equips students with advanced skills in machine learning, neural networks, data analytics, computer vision, robotics, and natural language processing, making them industry-ready for immediate roles in automation, healthcare, fintech, cybersecurity, smart cities, and data science. The AI job market is expanding at an unprecedented rate—India’s AI sector is projected to grow 25–35% annually and reach ?17 billion by 2027, with global AI markets anticipated to hit $1.81 trillion by 2030, ensuring robust demand for AI engineers, ML researchers, and data scientists. Curricula typically blend foundational computing with project-based learning on intelligent systems, AI-powered automation, behavior modeling, and industry-focused electives, using tools like Python, TensorFlow, and Keras. Opportunities span established companies and fast-growing startups, and placements are consistently strong across sectors from IT, banking, healthcare, and manufacturing to next-gen product development and research.

B.Tech CSE with a specialization in Quantum Computing, while more niche, addresses the emerging need for advanced computational solutions far beyond classical computing's limits. This specialization combines quantum mechanics, quantum algorithms, and AI, preparing students for research and innovation roles in quantum information, cryptography, drug discovery, materials science, finance, and complex optimization problems. With the backing of the National Quantum Mission and increased investment in quantum research, these programs feature industry-relevant electives—like quantum machine learning, quantum image processing, quantum AI integration—and practical training in tools such as IBM Qiskit and TensorFlow Quantum. While the quantum job market is in its early stages, prominent technology companies and startups, governments, and research labs globally are investing heavily in quantum R&D. The field, projected to reach $9 billion by 2030, demands interdisciplinary skills, often favoring those who pursue further studies. Placement opportunities span specialized sectors and research positions; academics and R&D centers offer the majority of roles, but quantum-driven innovation is expected to accelerate, especially as fault-tolerant quantum computers approach practicality within the next decade.

Choosing between these two depends on one’s vision and risk appetite. AI specializations provide immediate employability, broad cross-industry applications, and a versatile foundation—graduates can upskill further into emerging domains, including quantum AI. Quantum Computing, though frontier and high-potential, currently offers fewer but rapidly expanding opportunities, especially for those drawn to research, innovation, or pioneering new commercial applications. Both offer transformative and well-recognized career trajectories, but AI’s market-readiness and cross-domain application make it more accessible and mainstream, while quantum computing is future-oriented and better suited for those deeply interested in cutting-edge theoretical and computational science.

Recommendation
Given the mature scope, immediate job opportunities, higher employability, and universal demand, specializing in Artificial Intelligence in CSE is the balanced choice for most students. Quantum Computing is excellent for those committed to advanced research or niche innovation, but AI specialization assures broader industry acceptance and future-proof skills in today’s competitive technology environment. All the BEST for Your Daughter's Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Career
My EWS rank in jee main is 15000,my homestate and town is odisha, rourkela can I get artificial intelligence branch in csab special rounds
Ans: Subhojeet, With an EWS category rank of 15,000 in JEE Main and Odisha as your home state, the likelihood of securing an Artificial Intelligence branch in NITs, IIITs, or GFTIs via CSAB special rounds is extremely limited. Recent official CSAB and JoSAA data indicate that even for newer or less sought-after NITs and IIITs, closing ranks for Artificial Intelligence courses under the EWS home state and open state quotas rarely exceed 7,000–8,000, while top institutes such as NIT Rourkela and NIT Surathkal typically close EWS admissions for AI branches well below 4,000. IIITs offering specialized AI or AI & Data Science branches generally have EWS closing ranks (for both All India and Home State) under 12,000, with only a few, very new IIITs extending to the 14,000 range, mostly for less competitive streams or in later rounds if vacancies arise. For Odisha-specific institutions, like IIIT Bhubaneswar, EWS closing ranks for CSE and related AI programs have typically remained significantly more competitive, according to prior CSAB/JoSAA records. GFTIs, which have broader and higher cutoffs in select branches, still draw the line for EWS AI admission well below your current rank. Although the CSAB special rounds can see some movement due to seat withdrawals, the chances of an EWS AI seat opening up at your rank are extremely remote based on present and previous year cut-offs, especially for the Artificial Intelligence specialization in reputable NITs and IIITs.

Recommendation
With a 15,000 EWS rank, realistically focus your CSAB choice filling on other branches and backup options, as Artificial Intelligence in NITs/IIITs is not feasible; prioritize alternate circuits like ECE or core CSE in less competitive institutes or good private universities for best outcomes. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9586 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 28, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 28, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir I have got 115000 crl and 4715 sc rank in jee mains. I got cse in IIIT bhopal in josaa counselling . Can I expect a little better college with cse or ai in csab counselling or should I go with IIIT bhopal.
Ans: With a JEE Main CRL of 115,000 and an SC rank of 4,715, your allocation of CSE at IIIT Bhopal is a strong option, as last year’s CSAB and JoSAA special rounds indicate that most higher-ranked IIITs and NITs with CSE or AI typically closed at SC ranks below 3,000–4,000 for these highly demanded branches. IIIT Bhopal’s CSE program offers robust academic structure, experienced faculty, modern facilities, and a rising placement record—CSE students achieved a 77% placement rate in 2025 with an average package of 20.82LPA and top recruiters including Microsoft and Atlassian. CSAB special rounds rarely witness significant downward opening in closing ranks for CSE/AI in NITs, IIITs, or GFTIs, especially for centrally popular branches, so expecting a substantial upgrade is not realistic. IIIT Bhopal’s national ranking, strong peer group, and modern infrastructure provide a conducive environment for learning and employability, and its placement statistics are among the best among newer IIITs.

Recommendation
Go ahead and confirm your IIIT Bhopal CSE seat, as the likelihood of securing a visibly better CSE/AI seat at other NITs or IIITs in CSAB is minimal at your SC rank. IIIT Bhopal combines excellent academic and placement opportunities and is a prudent, future-focused choice for engineering in computer science. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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

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