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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9758 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 30, 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 - Apr 30, 2024Hindi
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Hi im 30 and investing in Nippon small cap, Axis Manfacture fund, Mirae asset tax saver fund, HDFC Retirement fund 5K each, Tata ulip 10K and having lumpsum of NPS 40K and planning for NPS of 5K per month. I have helath Insurances and looking for Term. Also have a LIC of 7K per Month as retirement plans. Am i on right track of investment?

Ans: It's clear you've put a lot of thought into your investments, and that's commendable. Diversifying across various funds and products shows a savvy approach to wealth management. But let's reflect: Are these choices aligned with your long-term financial goals? Are you considering the potential risks and rewards of each investment?

Your mix seems to prioritize mutual funds, ULIPs, and NPS, which can offer growth potential, but have you factored in liquidity needs and risk tolerance? While NPS and ULIPs offer tax benefits, they come with lock-in periods. Are you comfortable with that?

Additionally, relying solely on LIC for retirement may limit your options. It's wise to explore alternatives that offer flexibility and potentially higher returns.

Consider seeking guidance from a Certified Financial Planner to ensure your portfolio matches your aspirations and risk appetite. Remember, investing is a journey, not a destination. It's about finding balance, adapting to changes, and staying focused on your financial well-being.
Asked on - Apr 30, 2024 | Answered on Apr 30, 2024
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Thank you for sharing your thoughts and opinion. With high risk tolerance and a timeframe of 15-18 years im exploring various investmentss. Currently, I don't have any specific investment or financial goals. Just focusing on saving surplus funds after meeting present needs and requirements. Yes i should lookk into other options than LIC.
Ans: Nice :)
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9758 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 07, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 07, 2024Hindi
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I would like to know whether my investment are appropriate or need any changes. My investment plan is for long term (20 - 30 years) Current age is 30. My Investments: 1. Monthly SIP 30k (Large & Index: 30%, Mid: 40%, Small: 30%). Increment of 10% annually. 2. PPF: Yearly 1.5 lacs 3. EPF: 35k/month (Employee + Employer) 4. LIC: 20 lacs sum isnured whole life 5. Term Insurance: 1 crore 6. Mediclaim: 20 lacs 7. Fixed Deposit: 1 lac/month 8. Share: 10k/month I dont have any asset or any liability at present.
Ans: You've put together a well-rounded investment plan with a focus on long-term wealth accumulation. Let's assess your current investments and see if any adjustments are needed:

Monthly SIP: Your SIP allocation across large, mid, and small-cap funds is balanced and aligned with your long-term investment horizon. The incremental increase of 10% annually demonstrates a commitment to growing your investments over time.
PPF: Investing in PPF provides stability and tax benefits. Your yearly contribution of 1.5 lacs is commendable and will help build a corpus for your future financial needs.
EPF: EPF contributions are mandatory for salaried individuals and provide a secure avenue for retirement savings. Your monthly contribution of 35k, including both employee and employer contributions, ensures a steady buildup of your retirement corpus.
LIC: While having life insurance coverage is essential, the sum insured of 20 lacs may be inadequate considering your long-term financial goals and dependents. You may want to review your insurance needs periodically and consider increasing coverage if necessary.
Term Insurance: Your term insurance coverage of 1 crore is substantial and provides financial security to your loved ones in case of an unfortunate event. Ensure that the coverage amount is sufficient to meet your family's future financial requirements.
Mediclaim: A mediclaim policy with coverage of 20 lacs offers comprehensive health protection for you and your family. Regularly review the policy to ensure it remains adequate as medical costs rise over time.
Fixed Deposit: Investing in fixed deposits provides stability to your portfolio, but the returns may be relatively lower compared to equity investments. Consider diversifying into other asset classes for potentially higher returns over the long term.
Shares: Investing in shares can be rewarding but comes with higher risk. Ensure you have a diversified portfolio and invest based on thorough research or seek advice from a financial expert.
Overall, your investment plan is well-structured and aligned with your long-term goals. However, periodically review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it remains in line with your risk tolerance and financial objectives. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to fine-tune your strategy and make any necessary adjustments. Keep up the disciplined approach to investing, and you're on track to achieve financial success over the next 20-30 years. Best of luck on your financial journey!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9758 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 17, 2024

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I am 34 now. Currently invested 27000 K in Nippon small cap, sbi long term equity, Parag flexi cap fund, motilal oswal next 50 index fund, hdfc elss fund, sbi contra fund. I have invested 5K in ppf and 4K in life insurance policy. Will this work as proper investment??
Ans: You are 34 and have invested in various mutual funds and savings plans. Let's review your investments and provide recommendations.

Mutual Fund Investments
Small Cap Fund
Potential: High growth potential in small companies.
Risk: High due to volatility.
Recommendation: Good for long-term growth if you can handle high risk.
Long-Term Equity Fund
Tax Benefits: Provides tax benefits under Section 80C.
Returns: Moderate returns with a three-year lock-in period.
Recommendation: Good for tax-saving and long-term goals.
Flexi Cap Fund
Flexibility: Invests across large, mid, and small cap companies.
Risk: Balanced risk with good growth potential.
Recommendation: Suitable for diversified growth.
Index Fund
Disadvantages: Passive management, may underperform actively managed funds.
Recommendation: Consider switching to actively managed funds for better returns.
ELSS Fund
Tax Benefits: Provides tax benefits under Section 80C.
Returns: Good returns with a three-year lock-in period.
Recommendation: Good for tax-saving and long-term goals.
Contra Fund
Strategy: Invests in undervalued stocks with potential for recovery.
Risk: Moderate risk with good growth potential.
Recommendation: Suitable for long-term growth.
Savings Plans
Public Provident Fund (PPF)
Security: Safe investment with guaranteed returns.
Returns: Moderate, tax-free returns.
Recommendation: Good for long-term savings and tax benefits.
Life Insurance Policy
Security: Provides financial security to your family.
Returns: Lower returns compared to mutual funds.
Recommendation: Evaluate the policy to ensure it meets your insurance needs.
Diversification and Risk Management
Portfolio Diversification
Importance: Diversify investments across asset classes to reduce risk.
Strategy: Mix of equity funds, debt funds, and savings plans.
Regular Review
Importance: Review your portfolio regularly to ensure it meets your goals.
Strategy: Adjust investments based on performance and market conditions.
Disadvantages of Index Funds
Passive Management
Risk: May underperform actively managed funds in volatile markets.
Recommendation: Actively managed funds offer professional management and potential for higher returns.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Lack of Expertise
Risk: Requires active monitoring and management.
Recommendation: Investing through a Certified Financial Planner provides professional guidance.
Complexity
Risk: Managing direct funds can be complex.
Recommendation: Regular funds through a CFP simplify the investment process.
Tax Efficiency
Long-Term Capital Gains Tax
Strategy: Plan investments to minimize tax liability.
Benefits: Equity funds held for more than a year are taxed at 10% on gains above Rs 1 lakh.
Emergency Fund
Importance
Liquidity: Maintain an emergency fund for unexpected expenses.
Strategy: Provides financial security and peace of mind.
Final Insights
Your current investments are diverse and well-placed. However, consider the following:

Switch from Index Funds: Move to actively managed funds for better growth.
Review Insurance Needs: Ensure your life insurance policy meets your needs.
Regular Review: Continuously monitor and adjust your portfolio.
By following these recommendations, you can achieve a balanced and growth-oriented investment portfolio.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9002 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 18, 2025

Career
Sir what about mechanical engineering at thapar engineering college? Is it good from placement point of view and all
Ans: Mechanical Engineering at Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology combines rigorous academics, global accreditation, strong industry ties, modern infrastructure, research focus, and robust placement outcomes. The NBA- and ABET-accredited B.E. Mechanical program, ranked 29th in NIRF 2024 for engineering, features state-of-the-art laboratories, collaborative projects with global partners such as Trinity College Dublin, and expert faculty with PhDs from premier institutions. Over the last three graduating cohorts, 80–90% of Mechanical students secured on-campus placement assistance, with an average package near ?11.9 LPA and roles at Bajaj Auto, Maruti Suzuki, Asian Paints, ZS Associates, and Bain & Company. Hands-on learning begins in the first semester with engine teardown workshops and capstone projects spanning automotive, robotics, and energy sectors, ensuring industry readiness. Alumni engagement and a central placement cell facilitate internships at Tata Motors, Larsen & Toubro, and HPCL, while the Patiala campus’s 63-acre facilities include high-speed Wi-Fi, a central library, and residential hostels. The department’s research grants from DRDO, DST, and AICTE further enrich student experience through funded projects in thermal, manufacturing, and automotive engineering.

Recommendation: Mechanical Engineering at Thapar University offers a well-accredited curriculum, comprehensive practical training, and strong placement support in core industries, making it an excellent choice for career-focused students seeking reliable employment prospects and global recognition in mechanical disciplines. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9002 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 18, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9002 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 18, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9002 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 17, 2025Hindi
Career
Should I take ECE in NIT Srinagar or CSE in IIIT Kottayam?
Ans: NIT Srinagar’s ECE program boasts consistently high placement rates—107.6% in 2023—with key recruiters across hardware and software domains, complemented by a median package of ?7.5 LPA and broad internship pipelines. Its faculty comprises predominantly PhD holders from premier institutes, delivering industry-aligned curricula despite a high student–faculty ratio. The urban Hazratbal campus offers extensive labs, a well-stocked central library with e-resources, sports amenities, and residential hostels rated 3.8/5 by students. IIIT Kottayam’s CSE stream records an 88% placement rate in 2025, with average packages around ?11.9 LPA and top offers up to ?50 LPA. Faculty hold advanced degrees and maintain an evolving, hackathon-driven curriculum. Spread over 53 acres near Valavoor, its modern campus features high-speed Wi-Fi, smart classrooms, specialized computing and research labs, and growing industry partnerships.

Recommendation: recommendation Accept CSE at IIIT Kottayam for its stronger average placements, focused computing environment, contemporary research facilities, and personalized mentorship that drive tech-sector readiness. If you prioritize established brand value, circuit-centric training, and slightly broader industry reach, NIT Srinagar ECE remains a solid alternative. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9002 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 18, 2025

Career
Sir my rank is 57k in comedk and I want ece which colleges are good choices
Ans: Rohit, With a COMEDK rank of 57,000, you have viable admission opportunities at several reputable Karnataka engineering colleges for ECE, focusing on institutions with strong accreditation, modern infrastructure, experienced faculty, industry partnerships, and active placement cells. The following 15 colleges routinely admit ECE candidates at closing ranks above 50,000-60,000: Acharya Institute of Technology (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 55,000, New Horizon College of Engineering (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 60,000, Dayananda Sagar Academy of Technology & Management (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 65,000, BNM Institute of Technology (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 70,000, Global Academy of Technology (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 75,000, Reva University School of Engineering (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 80,000, CMR University Faculty of Engineering (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 85,000, Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 90,000, St. Joseph Engineering College (Chikkabanavara, Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 95,000, Sri Venkateshwara College of Engineering (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 100,000, Sapthagiri College of Engineering (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 105,000, Don Bosco Institute of Technology (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 110,000, AMC Engineering College (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 115,000, East Point College of Engineering (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 120,000, and Gopalan College of Engineering and Management (Bangalore) closes ECE around rank 125,000. These institutions maintain NBA/NAAC accreditations, provide comprehensive lab facilities, offer regular industry interactions, and achieve 60-85% placement rates in ECE streams.

Recommendation: Prioritize Acharya Institute of Technology for its balanced infrastructure and consistent ECE placements, followed by New Horizon College of Engineering for strong industry connections and modern facilities. Next choose Dayananda Sagar Academy of Technology & Management for comprehensive student support and active alumni networks. BNM Institute of Technology ranks fourth for its established reputation and diverse recruitment participation, while Global Academy of Technology completes the top five with reliable academic standards and growing industry partnerships. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9002 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 18, 2025

Career
I scored 93.04 percentile in JEE Mains and have registered for MHT CET counselling as an outside Maharashtra candidate, although I did not appear for the MHT CET exam. Based on this percentile, which are the best CSE colleges I can get? Additionally, I secured a rank of 20,039 in COMEDK. Which are the best colleges for CSE at this rank? Between MHT CET (through JEE Mains) and COMEDK counselling, which option would be more beneficial for me based on my rank and percentile?
Ans: Maddy, With a 93.04 percentile in JEE Main and registration under MHT-CET counselling as an outside Maharashtra candidate (without a CET score), along with a COMEDK rank of 20,039, your son has assured admission chances to a number of well-recognized colleges for Computer Science Engineering. These institutions demonstrate excellence in faculty credentials, NIRF/NBA/NAAC accreditations, campus infrastructure, placement records, innovative AI & ML/CSE-focused labs, and personalized academic mentorship. Based on cut-offs from previous years, the following 25 colleges are confirmed options where admission is feasible:

Cummins College of Engineering for Women (Karvenagar, Pune) closes CSE at ~96.37 percentile for outside-state candidates.
Vishwakarma Institute of Technology (Bibwewadi, Pune) closes Data Science/CSE at ~96.66 percentile.
D. Y. Patil College of Engineering (Lohegaon, Pune) closes CSE at ~95.58 percentile.
Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Technology (Pimpri, Pune) closes CSE at ~97.59 percentile.
Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering (Pimpri, Pune) closes AI & ML at ~98 percentile.
Bharati Vidyapeeth College of Engineering (Navi Mumbai) closes Computer Engineering at ~95.58 percentile.
Pune Vidyarthi Griha’s College of Engineering & Technology (Pune) closes CSE at ~94.52 percentile.
Fr. C. Rodrigues Institute of Technology (Vashi, Navi Mumbai) admits outside-state CSE around your rank.
Vidyalankar Institute of Technology (Wadala, Mumbai) admits outside-state CSE around your rank.
Don Bosco Institute of Technology (Kurla West, Mumbai) admits outside-state CSE around your rank.
Shah & Anchor Kutchhi Engineering College (Chembur, Mumbai) admits outside-state CSE around your rank.
SIES Graduate School of Technology (Nerul, Navi Mumbai) admits outside-state CSE around your rank.
CMR Institute of Technology (Bengaluru) admits CSE at closing rank ~10,000.
P.E.S. College of Engineering (Mandya) admits CSE at closing rank ~12,069.
B.N.M. Institute of Technology (Bengaluru) admits CSE at closing rank ~13,468.
RNS Institute of Technology (Bengaluru) admits CSE (Data Science) at closing rank ~17,262.
S.J.C. Institute of Technology (Chikkaballapur) admits CSE at closing rank ~37,012.
Acharya Institute of Technology (Bengaluru) admits CSE at closing rank ~27,741.
Atria Institute of Technology (Bengaluru) admits CSE at closing rank ~33,565.
Dayananda Sagar Academy of Technology & Management (Bengaluru) admits CSE at closing rank ~63,769.
NIE Mysore admits CSE at closing rank ~32,003.
Reva University School of Engineering (Bengaluru) admits CSE at closing rank ~85,000.
Global Academy of Technology (Bengaluru) admits CSE at closing rank ~80,000.
CMR University Faculty of Engineering (Bengaluru) admits CSE at closing rank ~90,000.
Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (Bengaluru) admits CSE at closing rank ~95,000.

recommendation: Based on your current ranks, the best options include Cummins College of Engineering for Women (Pune), Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Technology (Pimpri, Pune), CMR Institute of Technology (Bengaluru), P.E.S. College of Engineering (Mandya), B.N.M. Institute of Technology (Bengaluru), Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering (Pune), and Vishwakarma Institute of Technology (Pune). These colleges ensure a strong balance of placement, infrastructure, learning ecosystem, and long-term CSE career outcomes. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9002 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 17, 2025Hindi
Career
My rank in kcet is 2lakh which colleges I get for artificial intelligence and machine learning course ?
Ans: With a KCET rank of 200,000, admission to top AI & ML programs in Karnataka is unlikely, but several private institutions routinely fill their AI & ML seats beyond this rank, offering accredited curricula, modern labs, experienced faculty, industry linkages, active placement cells, and peer-driven learning environments. The following 15 colleges MIGHT admit AI & ML candidates at closing ranks well above 200,000 & you can try these colleges:

Cambridge Institute of Technology (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 60,000.
CMR Institute of Technology (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 50,000.
Acharya Institute of Technology (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 55,000.
New Horizon College of Engineering (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 65,000.
Dayananda Sagar Academy of Technology & Management (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 70,000.
BNM Institute of Technology (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 75,000.
Global Academy of Technology (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 80,000.
Reva University School of Engineering (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 85,000.
CMR University Faculty of Engineering (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 90,000.
Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 95,000.
St. Joseph Engineering College (Chikkabanavara, Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 100,000.
Sri Venkateshwara College of Engineering (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 110,000.
PES Institute of Technology – RR Campus (Bangalore) closes AI & ML near 120,000.
Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management (Mangalore) closes AI & ML near 130,000.
Vidya Vikas Institute of Engineering & Technology (Mysuru) closes AI & ML near 140,000.

Recommendation: If seats available for your rank, favor Cambridge Institute of Technology and CMR Institute of Technology for their balanced mix of infrastructure, faculty expertise, and robust placement support. Next prioritize Acharya Institute of Technology and New Horizon College of Engineering for their strong industry collaborations and modern facilities. Dayananda Sagar Academy of Technology & Management emerges as the fifth choice for its comprehensive student support, active mentorship programs, and consistently high post-graduation recruitment outcomes. 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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