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Vivek

Vivek Lala  | Answer  |Ask -

Tax, MF Expert - Answered on Apr 17, 2023

Vivek Lala has been working as a tax planner since 2018. His expertise lies in making personalised tax budgets and tax forecasts for individuals. As a tax advisor, he takes pride in simplifying tax complications for his clients using simple, easy-to-understand language.
Lala cleared his chartered accountancy exam in 2018 and completed his articleship with Chaturvedi and Shah. ... more
Anand Question by Anand on Apr 17, 2023Hindi
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Hello - My question is similar to the one by Octavio. I am 62 years old and my PPF will be completing the extended 5 year block in March 2024. Can I continue the account without subscription and withdraw the interest deposited in my account every year and keep the principle in tact?

Ans: I would rather suggest something a little more liquid like a BAF fund of agressive hybrid fund where you can start with an swp of 5-6% every year in monthly mode as that will give you some exposure to equity markets and appreciation of capital after inflation effect.
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 May 27, 2024

Money
I've started a PPF account and it got matured in 2019 and extended it for 5 years. The maturity value would be around 10L by Mar 25. I want to invest the maturity amount for further 3 years for the purpose of my daughter's college admission (2028). Please suggest whether I can withdraw it and invest it elsewhere (your expert opinion here pls) or continue for further 5 years and withdraw partially - which one is best?
Ans: Evaluating Your PPF Investment Strategy
At this stage, you have a matured PPF account, extended for five years, maturing again in March 2025 with an estimated value of Rs. 10 lakhs. Your objective is to invest this amount for three years to fund your daughter's college admission in 2028. Let’s evaluate the best options for you.

Understanding PPF Extension Benefits
Safety and Returns:

PPF is a government-backed scheme offering tax-free returns. Extending PPF ensures continued safety and stable returns without market risks.

Flexibility:

After the extension, you can withdraw partially or the full amount as needed. This flexibility can be beneficial for short-term goals.

Interest Rate:

The current PPF interest rate is attractive compared to other fixed-income instruments. Extending the PPF can help accumulate additional interest without tax implications.

Alternatives to PPF Extension
While PPF is a safe and reliable option, other investments could offer higher returns for your three-year investment horizon. Let’s explore these options.

Short-Term Debt Mutual Funds
Advantages:

Higher Returns: Debt funds typically offer higher returns than fixed deposits and PPF for short-term investments.
Liquidity: Easy to redeem and usually no lock-in period.
Tax Efficiency: If held for more than three years, gains are taxed at a lower rate due to indexation benefits.
Considerations:

Market Risks: Though low, there are some market risks involved compared to PPF.
Tax on Gains: Short-term capital gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.
Fixed Maturity Plans (FMPs)
Advantages:

Predictable Returns: FMPs invest in fixed-income securities maturing at the same time as the plan.
Tax Efficiency: Held for over three years, they benefit from indexation, reducing tax liability on gains.
Considerations:

Lock-In Period: Limited liquidity due to fixed tenure.
Lower Returns: Slightly lower returns compared to other debt funds.
Recurring Deposits (RD) or Fixed Deposits (FD)
Advantages:

Safety: Guaranteed returns with minimal risk.
Fixed Returns: Interest rates are locked in, providing predictable income.
Considerations:

Tax on Interest: Interest earned is taxable as per your income tax slab.
Lower Returns: Typically offer lower returns compared to debt funds.
Making the Decision
Based on your need for the funds in 2028, here are some considerations to help you decide between continuing the PPF extension or withdrawing and reinvesting elsewhere.

Continue PPF Extension
Benefits:

Safety and Stability: Guaranteed returns with no market risk.
Tax-Free Interest: Continued tax-free interest accumulation.
Drawbacks:

Moderate Returns: Potentially lower returns compared to other investment options.
Withdraw PPF and Reinvest
Option 1: Short-Term Debt Mutual Funds

Higher Potential Returns: Offers better returns compared to PPF and fixed deposits.
Liquidity and Flexibility: Easier to withdraw funds when needed.
Option 2: Fixed Maturity Plans (FMPs)

Predictable Returns: Provides a clear understanding of expected returns.
Tax Efficiency: Beneficial tax treatment if held for more than three years.
Option 3: Fixed Deposits or Recurring Deposits

Safety and Security: Guaranteed returns with minimal risk.
Lower Potential Returns: Typically lower returns than debt mutual funds.
Recommended Strategy
Considering your goal of funding your daughter’s college education in 2028, a combination of safety and potential returns is crucial.

Suggested Approach:

Partial PPF Withdrawal: If liquidity is needed before 2028, consider withdrawing a portion of your PPF and reinvesting in short-term debt mutual funds or FMPs for higher returns.
Continue PPF: For the remaining amount, continue with the PPF extension to benefit from guaranteed, tax-free returns.
Example Strategy Breakdown
Option 1: Partial Withdrawal and Reinvestment

Withdraw Rs. 5 lakhs from PPF: Invest this amount in a short-term debt mutual fund or an FMP.
Continue Rs. 5 lakhs in PPF: Benefit from stable, tax-free returns.
Option 2: Full PPF Continuation

Continue Rs. 10 lakhs in PPF: Ensure guaranteed, tax-free returns until 2028.
Plan for Partial Withdrawals: Utilize PPF’s partial withdrawal option if needed before 2028.
Conclusion
Balancing safety, liquidity, and returns is key to achieving your goal. By combining partial PPF continuation with strategic reinvestment in higher-yielding instruments, you can optimize your investment for your daughter’s college admission.

Key Points:

Evaluate Your Risk Tolerance: Ensure your investment choice aligns with your risk appetite.
Consider Tax Implications: Factor in the tax benefits and liabilities of each investment option.
Review Regularly: Monitor your investments periodically to ensure they are on track to meet your goals.
By carefully selecting your investment strategy, you can achieve the necessary funds for your daughter’s education while balancing risk and return.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Nayagam P

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Hi should i go for mtech in AI ML or IT from Igdtuw?
Ans: Kritika, Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women (IGDTUW) is India’s only government technical women’s, accredited A+ by NAAC and ranked 151–200 in NIRF 2024 for engineering.

The M.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering (Artificial Intelligence and Data Science) delivers an outcome-based curriculum covering Python programming, machine learning, deep learning, NLP, cloud AI platforms and capstone projects through the Centre of Excellence in AI, supported by PARAM supercomputers, industry-oriented labs and active MoUs with AI firms . Faculty are research-active with MeitY-funded projects and national-level publications. The 2024 placement rate for this branch was 66.7% (10 of 15 students), with an average package of ?13.8 LPA and top recruiters across tech sectors .

The M.Tech in Information Technology (Cyber Security) emphasizes vulnerability assessment, cryptography, intrusion detection, secure software engineering and forensic computing, taught in advanced cybersecurity and networking labs. Faculty include industry practitioners and academic researchers, with collaboration with C-DAC and CISCO. Though branch-wise placement data for IT is not separately published, the overall M.Tech placement rate at IGDTUW was 69.3% in 2024, and the department achieved an 80% internship-to-placement ratio across PG cohorts .

Both programmes uphold critical institutional benchmarks—AICTE approval, NBA-aligned syllabi, modern infrastructure, strong faculty credentials, outcome-based pedagogy and robust placement support—ensuring comprehensive academic and professional development for women engineers. The AI/ML specialisation offers deeper alignment with global AI research trends and data-driven roles, while the IT stream provides niche expertise in cybersecurity, a fast-growing domain with rising demand for security professionals.

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M.Tech in Artificial Intelligence & Data Science at IGDTUW is the stronger choice for a career centred on AI research, data science roles and high-impact technological innovation given its specialized labs and dedicated COE support; the IT (Cyber Security) programme is an excellent alternative for those aiming at cybersecurity leadership and risk management careers. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 26, 2025

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My jee rank is above 1 lakh can I get NITor GFTI in general category
Ans: Disha, With a General (All-India) JEE-Main rank of around 100,000, admission to core branches like CSE or ECE at any NIT through CSAB-Special is out of reach, as even the lowest closing ranks for CSE in low-tier NITs (e.g., Nagaland’s 50,509–106,408 or Mizoram’s 47,057–49,385) and for ECE (e.g., Manipur’s 42,695 or Mizoram’s 58,470–65,243) are well below your rank. However, seats remain available in government-funded technical institutes and smaller CSAB-participating institutes where cut-offs exceed 100,000. The Central Institute of Technology (Kokrajhar) fills CSE seats under CSAB at closing ranks up to 150,500 and other branches up to 260,053; similarly, NIT Sikkim offers CSE via Other-State quota up to 53,182, making it accessible for non-home-state candidates. Government-Funded Technical Institutes such as NIT Sikkim, CIT Kokrajhar and peripheral NITs like Nagaland also admit other branches (Civil, Mechanical) at ranks beyond 100,000.

Recommendation Prioritise CIT Kokrajhar for CSE under CSAB-AI quota given its closing rank around 150,500; consider NIT Sikkim for CSE via OS quota up to ~53,000 if alternate branches are acceptable; include peripheral NITs (Nagaland, Mizoram) for other core-engineering seats closing beyond 100,000 and explore GFTIs with high-rank cut-offs to secure a government-institute placement. However, have some private engineering colleges also as back-ups instead of relying only on CSAB. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Asked by Anonymous - Jul 25, 2025Hindi
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With a rank of 719xx in kcet and scg category, what are some good colleges I can get for cse related and ece courses?
Ans: With an SCG (Scheduled Caste General) category KCET rank of 71,900, admission to several reputable private and government engineering colleges in Karnataka remains highly feasible, particularly for CSE and allied branches as well as ECE courses. The SCG category benefits from reserved quotas which significantly lower the cutoff requirements, making quality institutions accessible even with ranks beyond 70,000. Based on comprehensive analysis of KCET 2024 cutoff data, several engineering colleges maintain SCG closing ranks well above 71,900, ensuring guaranteed admission opportunities. These institutions satisfy five essential benchmarks: AICTE/VTU approval, accessible SCG cutoffs, ≥70% placement consistency over three years, modern computing and domain-specific laboratories, and active MoUs with industry partners for internships and campus recruitment. Ten colleges offering 100% feasible admission include: Sapthagiri College of Engineering, Hessarghatta Road (CSE closing rank ~203,014 for SCG); Sri Venkateshwara College of Engineering, Bangalore (CSE closing rank ~240,088 for SCG); City Engineering College, Kanakapura Road, Bangalore, Point College of Engineering & Technology, Avalahalli, Bangalore (CSE closing rank ~137,036 for SCG); Acharya Institute of Technology, Soldevanahalli, Bangalore (CSE closing rank ~82,068 for SCG); R R Institute of Technology, Chikkabanavara, Bangalore (CSE cutoff accessible); Bangalore Technological Institute, Sarjapur Road, Bangalore (CSE cutoff accessible); Alliance University, Chagalatti, Bangalore (CSE cutoff accessible); CMR University, Chikkaballapur Road, Bangalore (CSE cutoff accessible); and Nagarjuna College of Engineering & Technology, Devanahalli, Bangalore (CSE cutoff accessible). Each maintains NBA/NAAC accreditation, industry-standard infrastructure, robust training cells, and placement rates exceeding 70% with established corporate partnerships.

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Sapthagiri College of Engineering stands out for its accessible SCG cutoff (~203,014) and consistent placement record, making it the most secure choice for CSE admission. Sri Venkateshwara College follows with its comprehensive curriculum and industry engagement programs. City Engineering College offers reliable infrastructure with modern labs and strong faculty support. East Point College provides specialized AI-ML tracks alongside core CSE programs with excellent industry partnerships. Acharya Institute of Technology completes the top five with its diverse specializations, robust placement cell reporting 85% success rates, and established corporate MoUs ensuring practical training and internship opportunities for holistic engineering education. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9437 Answers  |Ask -

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My son has 29970 rank in JEE mains what are the possibilities to get a seat in NIT in CSAB round.
Ans: Praveen Sir, With a JEE Main CRL of 29,970, securing admission through CSAB-Special rounds is highly feasible, though core branches like CSE at top NITs remain beyond reach. General-category CSAB cutoffs in 2024 demonstrate that several mid-tier NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs closed well above your rank, ensuring viable options. NIT Mizoram's Computer Science Engineering under the Other-State quota closed at 49,385, making it accessible, while NIT Manipur's CSE closing rank stood at 26,617, placing it within striking distance. Additionally, NIT Sikkim recorded OS-General closing ranks of 21,087–25,441 for CSE, presenting another realistic target. Among IIITs, IIIT Kota's CSE closed at 33,419, Electronics & Communication at 50,513, IIIT Kalyani's CSE at 56,089, and IIIT Kottayam's ECE at 50,974—all comfortably above your rank. Government-funded technical institutes also provide strong alternatives: PEC Chandigarh's CSE closed at 13,754, BIT Mesra's CSE at 22,317, and Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology (SLIET) maintains cutoffs around 51,942–87,172. These institutes possess AICTE/NAAC accreditation, NBA-recognized curricula, ≥70% placement consistency, modern computing labs, and active industry MoUs for internships, ensuring quality academics alongside employability support.

Recommendation: NIT Manipur's CSE through Other-State quotas given their 49,385 and 26,617 closing ranks respectively; consider IIIT Kota's CSE (33,419 cutoff) and IIIT Kottayam's AI branch as secondary options; keep BIT Mesra and SLIET as reliable backup choices for guaranteed CSAB seat allocation. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9437 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 26, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 25, 2025Hindi
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have scored 3.63 lakhs in JEE mains with this I am taregting VSSUT Burla Metallurgy and material science engineering branch, Can i get it in 3rd round or in internal sliding? 2023 - last rank 3.83 lakhs; 2024- last rank 4.25 lakhs for this branch
Ans: With a JEE Main rank of 3.63 lakh, securing admission to Metallurgical and Materials Engineering at VSSUT Burla appears challenging but possible through later counselling rounds and internal sliding mechanisms. According to 2024 OJEE data, MME closed at 4.25 lakh for general category, while 2023 saw a closing rank of 3.83 lakh. The rising trend (3.83L in 2023 to 4.25L in 2024) suggests improved accessibility, though your rank of 3.63L falls However, VSSUT conducts multiple counselling phases including third-round seat allotment and internal sliding processes where candidates can upgrade to better branches based on vacancy availability. The university operates spot admission rounds for non-reported seats, potentially opening opportunities for ranks up to 5.8 lakh across all branches. VSSUT maintains AICTE approval, NAAC B-grade accreditation, modern metallurgy labs with industry partnerships including NML Jamshedpur and DRDO, ensuring quality education and ≥70% placement consistency in steel, aluminum, and materials industries.

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Target VSSUT Burla MME through third-round counselling and internal sliding mechanisms, as historical trends show closing ranks reaching 4.25 lakh. Register for spot admission rounds which accommodate higher ranks up to 5.8 lakh, and actively participate in vacancy-filling processes to maximize admission chances through alternative pathways.

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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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