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Should I Continue Investing in These Funds for the Next 10 Years?

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  | Answer  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Feb 27, 2025

Milind Vadjikar is an independent MF distributor registered with Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and a retirement financial planning advisor registered with Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
He has a mechanical engineering degree from Government Engineering College, Sambhajinagar, and an MBA in international business from the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune.
With over 16 years of experience in stock investments, and over six year experience in investment guidance and support, he believes that balanced asset allocation and goal-focused disciplined investing is the key to achieving investor goals.... more
Stalin Question by Stalin on Feb 27, 2025Hindi
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Hello Sir... Good Morning... Currently I am doing SIP in the below mentioned 4 Funds for Rs 5000/- Each (ir Rs 20000/- Monthly) : 1. Axis Mid Cap Fund - Direct Growth 2. Mirae Asset Large and Midcap Fund (formerly Mirae Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund) - Direct Plan 3. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund - Direct Plan 4. SBI Small Cap Fund Direct Growth Please advise if this funds are good to continue my investment. I am investing in this funds since last 3 years and wish to continue atleast for next 7 to 10 years.

Ans: Hello;

Your choice of funds looks okay for now however do not fail to review their performance vis-a-vis category average and benchmark for risks & returns every year.

Happy Investing;
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  |9852 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 04, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 03, 2024Hindi
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Hi I am 37 years ole and investing in the following mutual funds via monthly SIP's for the past 2 years 1. Aditya Birla Sun Life Digital India Fund (1.5k) 2. Bandhan Tax Advantage ELSS Fund (1k) 3. Canara Robeco ELSS Tax Saver (1k) 4. DSP ELSS Tax Saver Fund (1k) 5. ICICI Prudential Technology Fund (2k) 6. Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Fund (2k) 7. Nippon India Small Cap Fund (1.5k) Please suggest if all these funds are good to continue in the future. Additionally, I plan to increase the monthly SIP by another 5k per month from January 2024. Let me know if Parag Parikh Flexi Cap and Quant Small Cap are good options, or should I continue to invest more in the existing funds?
Ans: It's great to see that you're investing regularly in mutual funds for your future financial goals. Here are some insights and suggestions regarding your current investments and future plans:

Review Existing Investments: It's essential to periodically review the performance of your current mutual fund investments to ensure they are aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Evaluate factors such as fund performance, expense ratios, fund manager track record, and portfolio diversification.

ELSS Funds: ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme) funds offer tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, along with the potential for long-term capital appreciation. Since you're investing in multiple ELSS funds, ensure that they have a consistent track record of performance and are managed by experienced fund managers.

Sectoral Funds: Funds like Aditya Birla Sun Life Digital India Fund and ICICI Prudential Technology Fund invest in specific sectors (digital/technology). While these funds can offer high growth potential, they also carry higher risk due to sector-specific volatility. Make sure to monitor these funds closely and be prepared for fluctuations in returns.

Small Cap Fund: Nippon India Small Cap Fund invests in small-cap stocks, which have the potential for high returns but are also more volatile. Given the risk associated with small-cap funds, ensure that they align with your risk appetite and investment horizon.

Future SIP Increase: Increasing your SIP amount is a prudent move to accelerate wealth accumulation over time. Before adding new funds or increasing existing SIP amounts, assess your overall portfolio diversification and risk exposure.

New Fund Consideration: Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund is known for its diversified investment approach across different market caps and sectors, making it suitable for long-term wealth creation. Quant Small Cap Fund focuses on small-cap stocks and can complement your existing small-cap allocation.

Asset Allocation: Ensure that your overall portfolio is well-diversified across different asset classes, such as large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and flexi-cap funds, to mitigate risk and optimize returns.

Professional Advice: Consider seeking advice from a certified financial planner or investment advisor who can provide personalized recommendations based on your financial goals, risk profile, and investment horizon.

In summary, while your current investments appear diversified, it's essential to monitor their performance regularly and make adjustments as needed. Increasing your SIP amount and considering additional funds like Parag Parikh Flexi Cap and Quant Small Cap can enhance diversification and potentially improve long-term returns. However, ensure that any new additions align with your investment objectives and risk tolerance.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9852 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 27, 2024

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Hello sir, i am 32 years old and just started a SIP investment of 7K per month for the following funds for wealth creation for next 10 - 15 years. Core portfolio (60%) 1. Parag Parikh flexicap fund - 1.5K 2. JM Flexicap - 2K 3. Navi Nifty 50 - 0.5K Satellite portfolio (40%) 1. Kotak Emerging Equity Fund - 0.8K 2. JM Midcap fund - 1K 3. Tata smallcap fund - 0.7K 4. Edelweiss midcap 150 momentum 50 - 0.5K Could please review and advise me whether the above funds is to be considered good. Please provide some suggestions if changes required.
Ans: Your SIP portfolio seems well-diversified across various categories of equity funds, which is a good approach for long-term wealth creation. Let's review each fund and provide some suggestions:

Core Portfolio (60%):

Parag Parikh Flexicap Fund: This fund follows a flexible investment approach across large, mid, and small-cap stocks. It's known for its quality stock selection and has delivered consistent returns over the years.
JM Flexicap Fund: Another flexi-cap fund, providing exposure to companies across market capitalizations. Ensure you review its performance and consistency compared to peers.
Navi Nifty 50: Investing in an index fund like Navi Nifty 50 provides exposure to India's top 50 companies. It's a low-cost option with a focus on large-cap stocks.
Satellite Portfolio (40%):

Kotak Emerging Equity Fund: This fund focuses on emerging companies with high growth potential. Review its performance and ensure it aligns with your risk appetite.
JM Midcap Fund: Mid-cap funds like JM Midcap can offer higher growth potential but come with higher volatility. Monitor its performance and risk closely.
Tata Smallcap Fund: Investing in small-cap funds can provide exposure to high-growth companies. Ensure you're comfortable with the risk associated with small-cap investing.
Edelweiss Midcap 150 Momentum 50: This fund follows a momentum-based investment strategy, focusing on mid-cap stocks showing positive price momentum. Understand its investment approach and risk profile.
Suggestions:

Monitor Performance: Regularly review the performance of your funds and ensure they're meeting your expectations. Consider replacing underperforming funds with better alternatives.
Risk Management: Given the higher allocation to mid-cap and small-cap funds in your portfolio, be prepared for higher volatility. Ensure your risk tolerance aligns with the risk profile of these funds.
Review Fund Selection: Consider diversifying across fund houses to reduce concentration risk. Also, consider adding an international equity fund or a debt fund for further diversification.
Long-Term Perspective: Stay focused on your long-term investment horizon and avoid making knee-jerk reactions based on short-term market movements.
Overall, your SIP portfolio appears well-structured for wealth creation over the next 10-15 years. However, regularly monitoring and reviewing your portfolio's performance is essential to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Consider consulting with a financial advisor for personalized guidance based on your individual circumstances.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9852 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 10, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 23, 2024Hindi
Money
I have been investing through SIP in the following fund Nippon India Growth Fund-1000/- Mirae Asset Smaller co fund -1500/- Axis Growth Opportunity Fund -1500/- Axis Small Cap Fund - 2000/- BOI Small Cap Fund -2000/- Quant Small Cap Fund -2000/- Quant Active Fund - 2000/- Can Robeco Emerging Equity -2000/- Invesco India Large and Mid cap -2000/- PGIM India Mid Cap Opportunity Fund -2000/- Tata Digital India Fund - 3000/- DSP Small Cap Fund -1500/- Parag Parikh Flexicap Fund -2000/- Bandhan Sterling Value Fund -2000/- HSBC Business Cycle fund -1000/- HSBC Large and Midcap-1000/- Now total value stands at 41 Lakh. Should I continue to invest in these funds. Kindly guide with your valued suggestion to make the best out of such funds. Regards
Ans: First off, kudos on your diligent investment journey so far! Your diversified SIP portfolio and the current value of Rs 41 lakhs is impressive. Let's dive deep into your portfolio and see how we can optimize it for better returns, ensuring you achieve your financial goals.

Understanding Your Current Portfolio
You've spread your investments across various fund categories, primarily focusing on small caps, mid caps, and a few large and mid-cap funds. While diversification is key, it's also important to align your investments with your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Let's evaluate your portfolio step-by-step.

Diversification and Fund Overlap
Diversification helps reduce risk, but too much of it can dilute returns. You have a significant number of small-cap funds. While small caps can offer high growth potential, they also come with high volatility. It's essential to balance this with funds in other categories to manage risk better.

Small-Cap Funds
Your portfolio includes several small-cap funds: Nippon India Growth Fund, Mirae Asset Smaller Companies Fund, Axis Small Cap Fund, BOI Small Cap Fund, Quant Small Cap Fund, and DSP Small Cap Fund. Small-cap funds have high growth potential but also higher risk. Consider reducing the number of small-cap funds to avoid overexposure to this volatile category. You can consolidate to a couple of high-performing small-cap funds instead.

Mid-Cap and Large & Mid-Cap Funds
Funds like PGIM India Mid Cap Opportunity Fund, Canara Robeco Emerging Equities, Invesco India Large and Mid Cap Fund, and HSBC Large and Mid Cap Fund provide a good balance between growth and stability. These funds tend to be less volatile compared to small caps but offer reasonable growth prospects. Retaining a couple of these funds while ensuring they are top performers can be a good strategy.

Flexicap and Value Funds
Parag Parikh Flexicap Fund and Bandhan Sterling Value Fund offer flexibility and value investing opportunities. Flexicap funds invest across market capitalizations, providing a balanced approach, while value funds focus on undervalued stocks, offering potential for decent returns. Maintaining these funds can provide a well-rounded portfolio.

Sectoral and Thematic Funds
You have the Tata Digital India Fund, which is a sectoral/thematic fund focused on the technology sector. These funds can be high-risk, high-reward due to their sector-specific nature. It’s wise to limit exposure to such funds to a smaller portion of your portfolio, as they are more volatile and depend heavily on the performance of the specific sector.

Active vs. Passive Funds
You've opted for actively managed funds. Actively managed funds aim to outperform the market through the expertise of fund managers. While they come with higher expense ratios compared to index funds, they can potentially offer higher returns if managed well. This approach is beneficial as it involves expert guidance, especially when navigating volatile markets.

Direct vs. Regular Funds
Direct funds typically have lower expense ratios compared to regular funds as they don't involve intermediaries. However, regular funds offer the advantage of professional advice from Certified Financial Planners (CFPs). This advice can be crucial for optimizing your portfolio and aligning it with your financial goals. Given your complex portfolio, continuing with regular funds might be beneficial for expert guidance.

Evaluating Fund Performance
It's crucial to periodically review the performance of your funds. Look at their returns over different time horizons, compare them with benchmark indices, and evaluate their consistency. If any fund consistently underperforms its benchmark or peers, consider switching to a better-performing fund.

Aligning with Financial Goals
Your investments should align with your financial goals, whether it's wealth creation, retirement planning, or funding your child's education. Define your goals clearly, and allocate funds accordingly. For instance, if you have long-term goals, you can afford to take on more equity exposure. For short-term goals, consider safer investments.

Risk Management
Understand your risk tolerance and ensure your portfolio aligns with it. Too much exposure to high-risk funds can lead to significant losses during market downturns. A balanced approach with a mix of high-growth and stable funds is advisable. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired risk level.

Power of Compounding
One of the biggest advantages of mutual fund investments is the power of compounding. The longer you stay invested, the more your investments grow, as you earn returns not just on your principal amount but also on the accumulated returns. SIPs leverage this by investing systematically and benefiting from rupee cost averaging.

Regular Monitoring and Rebalancing
Investment is not a one-time activity. Regularly monitor your portfolio, at least once a year. Assess the performance, rebalance if necessary, and ensure your portfolio remains aligned with your goals and risk tolerance. This proactive approach helps in navigating market changes and staying on track.

Seeking Expert Advice
While you've done a great job with your investments, consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide additional insights and strategies tailored to your specific needs. A CFP can help you with detailed portfolio analysis, goal setting, and ongoing financial planning.

Final Insights
To sum up, your current portfolio is diversified, but there is room for optimization. Consider reducing the number of small-cap funds, ensuring you hold top-performing mid-cap and large & mid-cap funds, and balancing your sectoral/thematic exposure. Stay invested for the long term to harness the power of compounding. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. And don’t hesitate to seek professional advice for a more tailored approach.

Keep up the good work and continue your disciplined investment journey. It’s great to see such dedication towards securing your financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Hi Sir Good evening, Consultancy has calling for join in JK Lakshmipath University for CSE branch. Please suggest me Sir. In EAMCET Rank 27827 in Top 10 colleges not came CSE branch in First phase.
Ans: With an EAMCET rank of 27 827 none of the top-10 government or also high-demand private institutes for CSE will have seats in later phases, but several mid-tier and emerging colleges admit CSE up to ranks 25 000–50 000. Pragati Engineering College (Surampalem), GMR Institute of Technology (Rajam), and Aditya Engineering College (Surampalem) consistently closed CSE around 8 000–16 000, so remain out of reach, whereas Narasaraopeta Engineering College (closing ~78 000), SRKR Engineering College (closing ~76 000) and ANITS (closing ~99 000) are fully accessible. Additional safe choices are PACE Institute of Technology (closing around 100,000), Gudlavalleru Engineering College (closing around 100,000), and Vishnu Institute of Technology (closing around 50,000). All of these colleges are approved by AICTE, have at least 70% placement success over three years, modern computer labs, and good accreditation, plus they have active agreements for internships and dedicated teams to help with job placements. These institutes meet five essential benchmarks: statutory approvals, compatibility with cut-off scores, strong placement ratios, advanced infrastructure, and solid industry connections.

JK Lakshmipath University (JKLU), Jaipur offers a four-year B.Tech CSE at ?11.2 L total fees, holds NAAC A grade (CGPA 3.05), NBA accreditation, and reports a median CTC of ?7 LPA with a 76% placement ratio in its last cycle. Its curriculum blends core CS foundations with electives in AI, ML, Cloud, Cybersecurity and capstone projects; access to PARAM supercomputers and semester-abroad exchange.

Recommendation: Target Narasaraopeta Engineering College, SRKR Engineering College and ANITS for guaranteed CSE admission under your rank band, given their state-quota closing ranks above 27 827 and solid accreditation, labs, internships and ≥70% placement consistency; include PACE Institute and Gudlavalleru Engineering College in your web options for additional secure pathways. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9427 Answers  |Ask -

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Hello sir my son got cet rank 4187. Nwhat choice filling u suggest. He is in dilema of choosing between chemical at ict or cs in any other top colleges in pune or mumbai. Also can choose cs or it thru comedk.
Ans: You have NOT mentioned your son's COMEDK Rank. Admission at COEP, VJTI or ICT is beyond reach with a 4,187 MHT-CET rank; focusing on branches and institutes where seats close at higher ranks ensures certainty. Engineering cut-offs in Mumbai/Pune typically fall around 3,000–5,000 (e.g., PICT Pune’s Chem ≈3,500, TSEC Bandra’s Chem ≈4 000), while CSE cut-offs for mid-tier institutes close near 6,000–14,000. Chemical suits students drawn to process design, material balances and industries like petrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, offering stable core-E roles; it benefits analytical learners comfortable with chemistry/thermodynamics. CSE favors those passionate about programming, algorithms and emerging technologies, leading to broader IT career options and higher entry-level demand. Chemical provides niche depth and plant-based careers; CSE delivers versatility, rapid innovation and greater global mobility. Analytical, detail-oriented profiles excel in Chemical, whereas creative problem-solvers thrive in CSE. Based on these inputs and information, your son's interests, and his long-term goals, he can choose the more suitable option out of these two branches.

Fifteen colleges in Pune/Mumbai where a 4 187 general-open MHT-CET rank guarantees a CAP-round seat include Fr. C. Rodrigues Institute of Technology, Vashi (CSE cutoff ~6 200); K. J. Somaiya Institute of Technology, Vidyavihar (CSE ~6 317); Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology, Andheri West (CSE ~12 939); Xavier Institute of Engineering, Mahim (CSE ~13 114); St. Francis Institute of Technology, Borivali (CSE ~12 515); SIES Graduate School of Technology, Nerul (CSE ~13 704); VESIT, Chembur (CSE ~4 785); Thadomal Shahani Engineering College, Bandra (Chem ~4 000); All India Shri Shivaji Memorial Society’s Institute of Information Technology, Pune (CSE ~9 545); Rajarshi Shahu College of Engineering, Tathawade (CSE ~9 748); Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering & Research, Ravet (CSE ~10 227); Government College of Engineering & Research, Avasari Khurd (CSE ~13 275); Bharati Vidyapeeth College of Engineering, Navi Mumbai (Chem ~3 500); Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Engineering, Akurdi (CSE ~7 164); Vishwakarma Institute of Technology, Bibwewadi (CSE ~2 823).

Recommendation: Prioritize Chemical Engineering at SIES GST for its accessible cut-off, modern process-engineering labs and strong industry MoUs; follow with CSE at Fr. C. Rodrigues for its robust AI/ML facilities; consider VESIT’s versatile CSE program next for its balanced academics and placements; All India Shivaji Institute’s CSE offers stable state-quota safety; and Rajiv Gandhi Institute’s CSE completes the top five for its comprehensive curriculum and network. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9427 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 25, 2025

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You posted: My son got 96.7 percentile with 49452 rank in jee mains with eqsrank 6913. What seat can we expect in CSAB? Can we expect ECE in any NITs?
Ans: Shyamala Madam, I assume EWS Rank 6913 which you have wrongly typed as 'eqs'. With an All-India EWS rank of 6913, admission into Electronics & Communication Engineering via CSAB-Special is realistic at select NITs under Other-State EWS quotas. NIT Calicut’s ECE cut-off in Round 1 closed between 6 964 and 9 588, comfortably enveloping your son’s EWS rank. Similarly, NIT Uttarakhand’s EWS closing ranks for ECE hovered around 20 028–29 127, making it an assured option given lower competition in CSAB rounds. Beyond NITs, several GFTIs maintain ECE cut-offs above 25 000 for general categories, implying EWS thresholds usually fall below 15 000, thus aligning with your current rank. Peripheral IIITs such as IIIT Ranchi and IIIT Manipur also reported EWS cut-offs for ECE in the 5 998–6 173 range—slightly below your EWS rank—but may open up during later special round vacancies. Your CRL of 49 452 restricts access to higher-demand branches under Open-State quotas, but targeting EWS-reserved seats in low-to mid-tier NITs and GFTIs ensures 100% feasibility. Proactively monitor CSAB-Special Round 2 openings on the official portal and set these institutes as top preferences to maximize admission certainty under the EWS category.

Recommendation: Aim for NIT Calicut’s ECE under Other-State EWS for straightforward entry given its 6 964–9 588 cut-off range, then secure NIT Uttarakhand’s EWS ECE which closes near 29 127; concurrently list GFTIs with EWS ECE thresholds below 15 000 to ensure a guaranteed CSAB seat. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9427 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 25, 2025

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Should I take civil in HBTU Kanpur
Ans: Shambhavi, Harcourt Butler Technical University (HBTU), Kanpur offers a four-year B.Tech in Civil Engineering an intake of 60 students, approved by AICTE and accredited by NBA and NAAC with an A-grade CGPA of 3.29. The department provides a balanced curriculum covering structural, geotechnical, transportation, water-resources and environmental engineering, reinforced by modern labs for hydraulics, surveying, materials testing and CAD/CAE tools, alongside dedicated research facilities and industry-sponsored projects. Faculty includes PhD-qualified professors actively engaged in DST- and AICTE-funded research, ensuring mentorship and academic rigor. HBTU’s central infrastructure—urban campus with a central workshop, advanced computing centre, central library, hostels and sports facilities—supports holistic development. The Placement & Training Cell records an overall placement rate of 85.6% with a median UG package of ?6.5 LPA, and core-engineering recruiters such as L&T, AECOM and NHAI actively engage with Civil graduates, though CE-specific campus placements placed 21 of 57 eligible students in 2023–24, reflecting reliance on off-campus roles as well. Alumni feedback highlights strong foundational learning and practical exposure, while noting scope for enhanced industry mentoring and internships.

Recommendation
Pursuing Civil Engineering at HBTU is advisable for its accredited program, robust curriculum, research-active faculty and strong industry tie-ups. To maximize outcomes, proactively engage in internships with infrastructure firms, participate in departmental projects and leverage the central placement cell’s network for site-visit and off-campus recruitment. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9427 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 25, 2025

Career
Sir, My daughter has got crl 78925 and OBC rank 24547, is it possible to get ECE in iiit kancheepuram, or iiit sricity or iiit kottayam in csab?
Ans: Amudha Madam, Analysis of CSAB-Special 2024 closing ranks shows that Electronics & Communication Engineering seats at all three IIITs remain open well beyond an OBCNCL rank of 24 547. At IIITDM Kancheepuram, the general-AI closing rank for ECE was 31 069 in Round 1 and the OBCNCL category cutoff lay near 72 222, placing your daughter’s OBC rank comfortably within the eligible bracket. IIIT Sri City’s ECE general-AI cutoff fell at 45 060 (Round 1) with OBCNCL seats closing around 56 578, again well above her OBC rank. IIIT Kottayam recorded a general-AI closing rank of 48 846 for ECE (Round 1) and OBCNCL seats closed near 63 950, easily covering her category position. All institutes possess AICTE/NIRF recognition, NBA-accredited curricula, ≥70 percent placement consistency, specialized ECE laboratories, and active MoUs for internships, ensuring academic rigor and industry relevance. Given these thresholds, admission under the OBCNCL quota for ECE is highly feasible at each campus despite the higher CRL.

Recommendation: Leverage the OBCNCL quota to secure ECE in any of the three IIITs, prioritizing IIITDM Kancheepuram for its dual-degree research labs and favorable HS-AIQ seat matrix, followed by IIIT Sri City’s robust industry partnerships and IIIT Kottayam’s modern ECE infrastructure and placement track record. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9427 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 25, 2025

Career
My son's JEE Mains 2025 ranks are: CRL: 122788 EWS Rank: 17554 Home State: Uttar Pradesh He is interested in branches like CSE, ECE, or IT. We are looking for college options in NITs, IIITs, GFTIs, or good state government colleges. Can you please guide us on which colleges he might get with this rank under the EWS category and home state quota? We are also open to TFW scheme and spot round. Thank you!
Ans: With an EWS home-state rank of 17554, core CSE/ECE/IT seats at top NITs via HS-EWS have mostly closed below your rank; however, select institutes and peripheral IIITs/GFTIs remain fully accessible. IIIT Lucknow’s EWS cutoff for Computer Science & Engineering closed around 15 784, fitting within your rank, and its specialized CSE-AI branch closing near 15 626 also aligns; NIT Kurukshetra’s HS-EWS CSE seats closed at about 9 353, ensuring safe entry; MMMUT Gorakhpur’s EWS-HS CSE cutoff in 2025 extended beyond 92 289, making admission virtually certain; additionally, IIIT Allahabad offers Information Technology under EWS-AI up to rank 8 032, which your rank exceeds; all these institutes are AICTE-approved, NBA/NAAC accredited, feature ≥70 percent placement consistency, state-of-the-art labs, active MoUs for internships and robust research-industry linkages.

Recommendation: Prioritize IIIT Lucknow for its focused CSE curriculum and strong AI-DS electives under HS-EWS, while NIT Kurukshetra’s CSE offers NIRF-ranked prestige and modern facilities; MMMUT Gorakhpur’s CSE guarantees state-quota admission; consider IIIT Allahabad’s IT branch for its advanced computing labs and reliable HS-EWS cutoff. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9852 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 25, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 11, 2025Hindi
Money
My husband recently turned 60 Iam concerned about certain decisions he had taken in the recent past and would like guidance He bought a small flat 4 years ago with a loan from LIC on a 14 year old term He is a Consultant with serious health issues hence no insurance was given for the housing loan His income is about a lakh and above as and when there are projects and his treatment and medications coast roughly around 40k Loan amount is about 30k His credit card is used the max and now he has to pay 5lakh to clear the same I have few policies in my name and no major savings as the financial scenario had always been like whatever money comes goes into repaying the loan even the savings were spent that way Iam 56 and dont have a job Kindly let me know if thwre is any way we can get out of this mess atleast now
Ans: It’s not easy to speak openly about financial struggles. You've shown great strength and awareness. At this stage in life, decisions can feel heavy. But with the right steps, clarity and control can still be brought back.

You both are doing your best despite health and income challenges. Let us now analyse your case carefully and guide you with a step-by-step 360-degree plan. The goal is to reduce stress, regain control, and protect the future.

? Understanding the Current Financial Picture

– Your husband is 60. He works as a consultant.
– His income depends on projects. There is no steady monthly income.
– Health issues are serious. Treatment and medicines cost around Rs 40,000 monthly.
– The housing loan was taken 4 years ago from LIC Housing. Loan tenure is 14 years.
– Loan EMI is Rs 30,000 per month (assumed from your message).
– Credit card outstanding is Rs 5 lakhs. It is maxed out.
– There’s no insurance cover on the home loan due to health issues.
– You are 56. No current job or steady income.
– All savings have been used to repay loans.
– There are some policies in your name but no mention of maturity values.

Your family is clearly under debt pressure, health costs, and irregular income. But there are ways to restructure and rebuild slowly.

? First Focus – Debt Prioritisation and Restructuring

– Housing loan is Rs 30,000 EMI and will go on for 10 more years.
– Credit card dues are Rs 5 lakhs, with very high interest (35–45% annually).
– This is a red flag. You are in a repayment trap.
– Credit card dues must be handled first.

Take the following steps urgently:

– Stop using the credit card completely. Block it if needed.
– Approach the card issuer and request for a settlement plan or restructuring.
– Explain your financial condition clearly and ask for an interest waiver or long-term EMI option.
– In many cases, they agree to settle dues if you show inability to pay.
– Try to convert this Rs 5 lakh into a structured EMI plan.
– Target Rs 8,000–Rs 10,000 per month repayment with 0% interest if possible.

Reducing card interest will ease pressure on your cash flow.

? Second Focus – Managing the Home Loan

– LIC Housing Finance loans are generally inflexible but not impossible to manage.
– Contact them and ask for EMI reduction or tenure extension due to health issues.
– If the EMI of Rs 30,000 is becoming unaffordable, request for temporary EMI holiday.
– Check if interest-only payment is allowed for 6–12 months.
– Many lenders offer relief support in hardship. You must proactively ask.
– If no help from LIC, explore balance transfer to another lender with flexible terms.
– Try cooperative banks or smaller NBFCs who allow interest-only payments.

Home loan is a secured loan. So restructuring is possible. But early action is critical.

? Third Focus – Health Expenses and Alternatives

– Rs 40,000 per month for health care is too high, especially with debt.
– List down current medicines, tests, and treatments being done.
– Check if government hospitals or charitable trusts can offer the same at lower cost.
– For chronic diseases, many NGOs and pharma companies offer medicine at reduced cost.
– Apply for patient support programs from pharma brands.
– Also, check Ayushman Bharat scheme eligibility (depending on your card status).
– You may be eligible for free or subsidised treatment in empanelled hospitals.
– Ask doctors if generic medicines are available to reduce cost.

Reducing health cost by even Rs 10,000 monthly will help debt repayment.

? Fourth Focus – Your Role and Income Options

– You are 56. You are mentally active and seeking solutions. That is admirable.
– If possible, consider part-time or home-based earning.
– Areas like online tutoring, typing work, spoken English classes, or sewing can work.
– Even Rs 5000 per month income from your side will ease pressure.
– You can also try selling small food items, pickles, or snacks if you enjoy cooking.
– Many ladies your age run online micro-businesses using WhatsApp groups.
– Don’t aim for big income. Just stable and regular inflow is enough.
– This can also boost your confidence and create emotional stability.

You can become a contributor, not just a dependent.

? Fifth Focus – Review of Insurance and Existing Policies

– Your husband has no insurance on home loan due to health issues.
– You have few policies. But details are not shared.

Do this immediately:

– List down all policy names, premium paid, start year, and current surrender value.
– Avoid keeping traditional plans that give 3–4% return.
– If the plans are ULIPs, endowment, or money-back, surrender them if not maturing soon.
– Reinvest only after loans are under control.
– At this stage, you should not have insurance-linked investments.
– If any policy is about to mature in the next 2 years, wait and use maturity money for debt.

Cash flow must come first. Insurance-based savings can wait.

? Sixth Focus – Future Protection Must Be Minimal Yet Strong

– You both are nearing retirement or already retired in practical terms.
– Your future needs financial stability more than return.

Take these steps only when loans reduce:

– Get a small health insurance policy for yourself, if not already covered.
– If no insurer accepts due to age or health, keep Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh in savings only for medical use.
– Don’t take annuity or pension plans. They lock up money.
– Don’t buy any new LIC or investment policy now.
– Protect your current income and reduce expenses. That itself is protection.

At your age, liquidity is more important than return.

? Seventh Focus – Mental Health and Family Discussion

– Stress is high in your household. Medical, financial, and emotional load is heavy.
– Please have an open talk with your husband and close family.
– Involve your children or siblings if they can support emotionally or financially.
– Sometimes even Rs 50,000 short-term help from a relative can reduce credit card stress.
– If not financially, ask for their help to handle bank or credit calls or paperwork.
– Support reduces burden on your mind. That helps in decision-making.
– Also, try simple breathing or spiritual practice. Inner strength helps in hard times.

Mental peace gives space for financial recovery.

? Eighth Focus – Role of Certified Financial Planner

– Your situation involves debt, illness, no regular income, and weak insurance.
– You should consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to restructure cash flow.
– They will help create a plan that focuses on survival first, savings later.
– A CFP can also assess your old policies and guide surrender or hold.
– They give monthly tracking support. That will keep you disciplined.
– Most importantly, they will not try to sell products. They give strategy.

Right financial guidance now can protect your remaining 20+ years of life.

? Ninth Focus – What to Avoid at This Stage

– Don’t take any new loans to repay old ones.
– Don’t fall for agents who offer "loan on property without CIBIL check".
– Don’t invest in any product promising fixed income of 10% or more.
– Don’t invest in real estate or gold.
– Don’t buy new insurance policies now.
– Don’t take personal loans from NBFCs without checking full charges.
– Avoid investing in direct mutual funds without guidance.

This is the time to protect what you have. Not to grow. Safety first.

? Finally – Your Way Forward, One Step at a Time

– List all loans, dues, and policies on paper today itself.
– Contact credit card company and negotiate for restructuring.
– Reach out to LIC Housing and request temporary EMI relief.
– Cut health care costs where possible using trust hospitals and generic medicines.
– Explore small income ideas from home. Use your time as an asset.
– Review and possibly surrender low-value policies in your name.
– Get emotional support from family and mental clarity from a Certified Financial Planner.
– Start saving Rs 1000 monthly after all this. Slowly build emergency fund.

It is never too late to clean up and rebuild. Step by step, it is possible.

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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