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I Want To Invest 20 Crores For At Least 12% Return - Is My Plan Good?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 16, 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 - Aug 14, 2024Hindi
Money

Inherited around 20 Crores in liquidity Other assets including property totally valued at 35 Crores Want to invest that 20 Crores for atleast 12 to 15 % return also considering inflation of 6 % I was thinking to put all into tax free bonds with atleast 7 % return taking a yearly payout and reinvesting them in MF and Equity Is that a good approach ?

Ans: You’ve inherited Rs. 20 crores in liquidity, along with other assets valued at Rs. 35 crores. It’s impressive that you’re thinking ahead about investing this significant amount. With a target of 12-15% returns, while considering inflation at 6%, your approach needs to be strategic. Your plan to invest in tax-free bonds and reinvest the payouts in mutual funds and equity requires careful evaluation.

Evaluating the Current Strategy
Let’s analyse your current idea of investing the entire Rs. 20 crores into tax-free bonds with a 7% return and reinvesting the annual payouts into mutual funds and equity.

Tax-Free Bonds

Steady Income but Lower Returns: Tax-free bonds are excellent for generating stable, tax-efficient income. However, the returns are usually capped at around 7%, which is lower than your target of 12-15%.

Limited Growth Potential: While these bonds provide safety and tax efficiency, they don’t offer much in terms of capital appreciation. Your strategy needs to consider growth, especially if inflation is at 6%.

Reinvestment Challenge: Reinvesting the yearly payout in mutual funds and equity is a sound idea, but the returns from bonds might not be substantial enough to meet your overall return target. Over time, the real value of your investment could erode due to inflation.

Mutual Funds and Equity

Higher Potential Returns: Mutual funds and direct equity investments have the potential to generate the 12-15% returns you’re aiming for. However, they come with higher risk and volatility.

Actively Managed Funds Over Index Funds: You should focus on actively managed mutual funds. They have the potential to outperform index funds, especially in a dynamic market. Index funds may not give you the alpha you need to achieve your goals, given their passive nature and average returns.

Regular Funds Over Direct Funds: Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) can provide you with professional guidance. Direct funds may seem cost-effective, but regular funds give you access to expert advice, which is crucial for optimizing returns and managing risks effectively.

Alternative Investment Strategies
Given the limitations of the current approach, it’s essential to explore alternatives that could better align with your goals.

Balanced Portfolio Approach

Diversification is Key: Consider diversifying your Rs. 20 crores across various asset classes. A balanced approach with a mix of equity, debt, and alternative investments can provide growth while managing risk.

Equity Allocation: Allocate a significant portion to equity, say 50-60%, to capture higher returns. This can be done through mutual funds, direct equity, or a combination of both.

Debt Instruments: While tax-free bonds can be part of the debt allocation, you might want to explore other debt instruments like debt mutual funds, which offer better post-tax returns, especially when held long-term.

Alternative Investments: Consider alternative investments like private equity, venture capital funds, or even international funds. These can add a layer of diversification and potential for higher returns.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)

Gradual Exposure: Instead of a lump sum investment, consider investing in equity and mutual funds through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). This approach allows you to spread out your investments, reducing the risk of market timing and averaging out the cost.

Rupee Cost Averaging: SIPs provide the benefit of rupee cost averaging, which helps in accumulating units at varying prices, reducing overall investment risk.

Structured Products

Custom Solutions: Explore structured products that are designed to meet specific financial goals. These products can offer a mix of equity, debt, and derivatives, providing a tailored solution to achieve your return target.

Risk Management: Structured products often come with built-in risk management features, which can be beneficial in protecting your capital while aiming for higher returns.

Addressing Inflation and Taxes
Inflation-Protected Investments

Growth Focus: To combat inflation, a significant portion of your portfolio must be growth-oriented. Equity investments, especially in sectors with high growth potential, can help in staying ahead of inflation.

Reinvesting for Growth: Reinvesting dividends and interest from your investments can compound your returns, helping you stay ahead of inflation over the long term.

Tax-Efficient Investing

Debt Fund Advantage: While tax-free bonds are appealing, hybrid debt funds offer tax efficiency through indexation benefits. This can result in a lower tax burden on your debt investments, improving post-tax returns.

Equity Taxation: Equity investments held for over a year benefit from favourable long-term capital gains tax rates. Plan your equity investments with a long-term horizon to maximize tax efficiency.

Risk Management and Capital Protection
Diversification

Spread Risk: Diversify across multiple asset classes to manage risk effectively. Avoid putting all your eggs in one basket. By spreading your Rs. 20 crores across different investments, you can achieve a balance between risk and return.
Review and Rebalance

Periodic Review: Regularly review your portfolio with the help of a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). This ensures that your investments remain aligned with your goals and market conditions.

Rebalancing: Adjust your portfolio periodically to maintain the desired asset allocation. This can help in locking in profits and reinvesting in underperforming assets that have the potential to grow.

Final Insights
Ajay, your goal of achieving 12-15% returns is ambitious but achievable with a well-thought-out strategy. While tax-free bonds provide safety, they may not be sufficient to meet your target. A diversified approach, with a mix of equity, debt, and alternative investments, is essential.

Focus on actively managed funds and consider SIPs for gradual equity exposure. This will help you achieve your return targets while managing risk. Regular reviews and rebalancing will keep your portfolio on track.

With this approach, you can confidently grow your Rs. 20 crores while staying ahead of inflation and taxes.

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 Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 25, 2024

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Hi, Iam 42 years male working as GM with a hotel with 1.2 lac per month salary. Net in hand post TDS is 1.10 lac. Own a flat in Bhiwadi (NCR) worth 25 lac, a shop in Gurgaon worth 30 lac, one paternal house in South Delhi. No loan or EMI. My current savings are 6 lac in digital gold, 1.5 lac in equity, 50,000 in mutual funds which Iam planning to increase on lumpsum basis, no SIP as nature of my job is uncertain. ULIP linked LIC with a premium of 50,000 per year. Term insurance of 75,00,000/- with a premium of 15,000 per annum. Monthly household expenses are 50,000. Need your advise on how to go ahead on investments, I don't believe in long term gain or loss, NO SIP or regular payments, I wish to make. Wish to invest 50,000 per month. Kindly advise.
Ans: You are 42 years old, working as a GM in a hotel with a monthly salary of Rs 1.2 lakh.

Net in hand post TDS is Rs 1.10 lakh.

You own a flat in Bhiwadi worth Rs 25 lakh, a shop in Gurgaon worth Rs 30 lakh, and a paternal house in South Delhi.

Your savings include Rs 6 lakh in digital gold, Rs 1.5 lakh in equity, and Rs 50,000 in mutual funds.

You have a ULIP-linked LIC with a premium of Rs 50,000 per year and a term insurance of Rs 75 lakh with a premium of Rs 15,000 per annum.

Monthly household expenses are Rs 50,000.

You wish to invest Rs 50,000 per month but prefer not to make regular payments like SIPs.

Investment Strategy

Lump Sum Investments

Lump sum investments suit your preference for irregular payments.

Consider investing in diversified equity mutual funds.

These funds provide good returns over time.

Balance risk with a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.

Digital Gold

You already have Rs 6 lakh in digital gold.

Gold is a good hedge against inflation.

Avoid further investment in gold.

Diversify into other asset classes.

Equity and Mutual Funds

You have Rs 1.5 lakh in equity and Rs 50,000 in mutual funds.

Increase your mutual fund investments.

Choose actively managed funds for better returns.

Avoid direct equity if you cannot regularly monitor the market.

ULIP

ULIPs combine insurance and investment.

They usually have high charges.

Consider surrendering the ULIP and reinvesting in mutual funds.

This can offer better returns and lower charges.

Term Insurance

Your term insurance cover of Rs 75 lakh is good.

Ensure it is sufficient for your family's needs.

Review and adjust coverage if required.

Fixed Income Investments

Consider fixed income options like fixed deposits and government bonds.

These provide stability and predictable returns.

Allocate a portion of your funds here to balance risk.

Emergency Fund

Maintain an emergency fund equal to 6-12 months of expenses.

Keep this fund in a liquid savings account or short-term FD.

This fund provides financial security for unforeseen events.

Tax Saving Investments

Invest in tax-saving instruments under Section 80C.

Consider ELSS mutual funds for tax savings and good returns.

This will reduce your taxable income.

Review and Adjust Portfolio

Regularly review your investment portfolio.

Adjust based on market conditions and personal circumstances.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for professional advice.

Final Insights

Your goal is to invest Rs 50,000 per month with flexibility.

Lump sum investments in diversified equity mutual funds are suitable.

Avoid further investments in gold and consider surrendering ULIP.

Maintain an emergency fund and review your insurance coverage.

Consider tax-saving investments to optimize your tax liability.

Regularly review and adjust your portfolio with professional guidance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 21, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 20, 2025
Money
Hi I am 43 me and wife earning 3 lcs per month with no kids we have a liability of 45 lacs housing loan and car loan of 8 lacs Housing loan balance 38 lacs ( we paid 5 lacs as part payment in two years) and also increase our installments from 38000 to 50000 for the last 5 months and reduce our tenure from 20 years to now 12 years Expenses:- 50000 housing laon per month 19000 car loan per month 30000 house hold expenses including travel expenses etc.. 30 lakhs mediclaim insurance premium 25000 annually Investment:- 35000 mutual funds per month ( funds like multi assets,multi cap and large cap one or two funds in small cap,and flexi funds ) Lic premium annual around 2 lacs 65000 annually premium for term plan ( unit linked plan) of 50 lacs 1 lakhs in PPF 50 lakhs corpus in mutual funds (90% equity and 10% hybrid) 15 lakhs FD 30 lakhs worth gold (300 grm) apprx 1 flat worth 1 crore ( on loan paying 50k pm) 10 lakh cash 3 lakh in savings Want to build a corpus of minimum of 10 crores befor 60 years of age How do invest in more systametic manner so that we can grow our money and how much amount do we need more to invest to reach this targetAnd another imp question is do I need to pay housing loan first so that I can save the intrest or kept the money in account as emergency fund. I am really confused Do I sell gold and pay loan ?? Do I break my FD ? What to do??
Ans: Appreciate your clarity and discipline with money. You are far ahead of many at your age. You already have a strong income, valuable assets, and good savings habits. Now let’s look at a complete 360° view of how to reach Rs. 10 crore target by 60.

We’ll go step by step with each area of your financial life.

Income and Cash Flow Overview
Monthly income of Rs. 3 lakhs is very healthy.

Loan EMIs total around Rs. 1.19 lakhs, approximately 40% of income.

Household expenses are just Rs. 30,000 – very efficient.

SIPs of Rs. 35,000 are a great start, but more growth investment is needed.

Scope exists to steadily increase investments each year.

Savings of Rs. 13 lakhs (FD + cash + savings) gives a solid buffer.

Actionable Insight:
Maintain a detailed monthly budget tracking income, expenses, EMIs, and surplus. Review it quarterly to stay in control.

Loan Repayment Strategy
Home loan of Rs. 38 lakh with Rs. 50,000 EMI and reduced tenure to 12 years – good progress.

Car loan of Rs. 8 lakh with Rs. 19,000 EMI.

Rs. 69,000/month in loan EMIs is manageable at your income level.

Recommendations:

Don’t rush to close home loan if interest is below 9% – you get tax benefits.

Prioritise closing the car loan if interest rate is high – it's not tax beneficial.

Avoid using FD or gold for loan repayment unless it’s an emergency.

Emergency Fund Evaluation
Rs. 10 lakh in cash + Rs. 3 lakh in savings is already strong.

With Rs. 15 lakh in FD, total emergency reserve is Rs. 28 lakh.

That’s more than sufficient; no need to expand emergency fund further.

Use sweep-in FD or split across multiple banks for liquidity and safety.

Insurance Assessment
Rs. 30 lakh health insurance is adequate – continue maintaining this.

Term insurance of Rs. 50 lakh via ULIP is too low.

Ideal cover should be around Rs. 4 crore (12x annual income).

Recommendations:

Take an independent term insurance plan of Rs. 3.5 crore.

Continue existing health cover.

Evaluate surrender of ULIP and LIC if returns are low (generally ~5%).

Redirect those premiums (Rs. 2.65 lakh annually) to mutual fund SIPs.

Investment Portfolio Review
Monthly Investments:

Rs. 35,000 into mutual funds (multi-cap, flexi-cap, small-cap, etc.)

Annual Contributions:

Rs. 1 lakh into PPF

Total Investment Corpus:

Rs. 50 lakh in mutual funds

Rs. 15 lakh in FD

Rs. 30 lakh in gold

Rs. 10 lakh in cash

Rs. 3 lakh in savings

Positives:

Strong equity exposure for long-term growth.

Balanced support from gold and FD.

Suggestions for Improvement:

Increase SIPs annually by at least 10%.

Limit small-cap exposure to 10-15%.

Gradually move from FD to debt mutual funds for better returns and tax-efficiency.

Surrender low-return policies (LIC, ULIP) and reinvest in growth-oriented funds.

Continue PPF contributions for safe, tax-free returns.

Realistic Path to Rs. 10 Crore by Age 60
You are 43 now, with 17 years to invest.

Current investment corpus is around Rs. 1.08 crore.

With Rs. 35,000 SIP, you might reach Rs. 2.5–3 crore by 60 – not enough.

To Reach Rs. 10 Crore Goal:

Gradually increase SIPs to Rs. 1 lakh/month in 5 years.

Reinvest proceeds from surrendering LIC/ULIP (Rs. 2.65 lakh annually).

Redirect EMI amounts (car loan, etc.) once loans are closed.

Make lump sum additions from bonuses or surplus income.

Mutual Fund Taxation Notes
From 2024, equity LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term equity gains taxed at 20%.

Debt fund gains taxed as per slab.

Advice:

Avoid frequent withdrawals.

Use ultra-short term or debt funds for short- to medium-term needs.

Fund Selection Guidelines
Avoid direct funds unless you manage the portfolio yourself.

Use regular plans through a certified financial planner for guidance.

Avoid index funds if you seek alpha and personalized management.

Stick to a blend of active multi-cap, flexi-cap, and large-cap funds.

Suggested Asset Allocation
60% – Equity mutual funds

15% – Debt mutual funds

10% – Gold (already in place)

10% – Emergency fund (FD + cash)

5% – PPF

Annual Portfolio Rebalancing Recommended

Year-Wise Action Plan
Year 1–2:

Repay car loan using surplus or gold if needed.

Surrender LIC and ULIP; shift Rs. 2.65 lakh to mutual funds.

Take new term plan of Rs. 3.5 crore.

Increase SIPs to Rs. 50,000/month.

Year 3–5:

Redirect closed EMIs (Rs. 19,000) to SIPs.

Gradually move FD into debt mutual funds.

Add lump sum investments from annual bonuses.

Year 6–10:

Continue SIPs at Rs. 1 lakh/month.

Keep gold as is.

Rebalance asset allocation annually.

Final Insights
You are on the right track.

No need to sell gold or break FD prematurely.

Gradually increase SIPs and equity exposure.

Maintain emergency reserve.

Improve term cover and simplify insurance portfolio.

Avoid panic, follow the strategy, and review annually.

With this approach, you can confidently build Rs. 10 crore or more by 60 and ensure financial independence.

With better planning and yearly reviews, you will secure a strong retired life.

 

Best Regards,
?
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
?
Chief Financial Planner,
?
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 29, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 09, 2025Hindi
Money
Sir i am 66 years old and retired and have only one daughter married and settled. I have 2 grand children of 5 years and 3 years. I have equity shares of Rs.1.1 cr and a PMS of Rs.88 Lakhs. I have a monthly rental income of Rs.2.5 Lakhs net of taxes. Out of this i contibute SIP of Rs.75K per month for 5 years grandson and Rs.85K for 3 years Grand daughter since 2 years. My assets consists of one commercial bldg valued Rs. 5.5 cr and 2 houses valued at Rs.3 cr and a vacant plot 1.6 cr. I retain Rs.1 lakh per month for my monthly expenses and annual payments towards prooerty tax medical insurance and travels. My question will i be able to create Rs.5 cr for each of my grand children in 15 years with 5% increse in SIP every year. 2 years already completed. My 2nd question is whether our investment are in line and safe.
Ans: ? Strong Financial Foundation and Thoughtful Intentions

– You are showing great care for your grandchildren.
– The SIPs for their future are a strong step.
– Your assets provide a very stable base.
– Rental income of Rs. 2.5 lakh is excellent post-retirement support.
– Holding equity and PMS ensures potential long-term growth.
– Overall, your setup is solid and responsible.

? Review of Monthly SIPs Towards Grandchildren’s Goals

– Rs. 75K for the elder and Rs. 85K for the younger child is generous.
– With 5% annual increase, compounding will boost growth.
– Already two years of SIP is completed.
– That gives you 13 years more of investment time.
– This is a good horizon for equity-focused SIPs.
– With this strategy, Rs. 5 crore per child is achievable.
– But this depends on consistent equity returns over time.
– Market volatility is a factor, but time helps smoothen it.
– SIPs over 15 years usually reward with wealth creation.
– The rising SIP contribution every year also boosts target achievement.

? Portfolio Safety and Risk Allocation Assessment

– Equity shares of Rs. 1.1 crore are good for long-term growth.
– PMS of Rs. 88 lakh adds to the equity exposure.
– However, PMS requires monitoring.
– PMS also comes with higher fees and lower transparency.
– Direct equity too demands active watch and regular reviews.
– In retirement, active management adds stress and risk.
– Shifting some equity to mutual funds via MFD with CFP support is better.
– Actively managed mutual funds bring professional oversight.
– They offer smoother diversification and lower effort for retirees.

? Overexposure to Real Estate: A Review

– Real estate is illiquid and cannot be used quickly in emergencies.
– You own properties worth Rs. 10.1 crore.
– This is a huge chunk of total wealth.
– Commercial property, two houses, and a vacant plot is too much.
– Real estate requires maintenance, taxes, and time to sell.
– Rental income is fine, but too much dependency limits flexibility.
– Consider slowly reducing real estate exposure.
– Use the sale proceeds for safer, more liquid options.
– Use mutual funds aligned with specific goals.
– With the help of a Certified Financial Planner, this can be smooth.

? Emergency Planning and Liquidity Concerns

– You mentioned Rs. 1 lakh/month for expenses.
– But no liquid emergency fund is visible.
– At least 18 months of expenses should be parked separately.
– Keep Rs. 18 to Rs. 24 lakh in safe, low-risk instruments.
– Choose options that are not linked to market volatility.
– This ensures you don’t have to sell assets during downturns.
– Use short-term mutual funds through MFDs with CFP advice.

? Insurance Review for Risk Coverage

– You said annual payments include medical insurance.
– But coverage amount was not mentioned.
– At your age, at least Rs. 15 to 20 lakh health insurance is essential.
– Consider a super top-up plan if needed.
– Don’t let health expenses eat into investment goals.
– Also, review if the policy covers pre-existing conditions and has lifetime renewability.

? Rebalancing Need in Current Portfolio

– You are heavily skewed towards equity and real estate.
– Safe, non-market-linked investments are not visible.
– Rebalancing is needed to reduce risk.
– Allocation to low-risk options brings peace and stability.
– Retired life needs more predictable cash flow.
– Equity is good for growth, but you need balance too.
– Asset mix must suit your age and withdrawal needs.
– Allocate some equity to hybrid mutual funds.
– Balanced approach keeps safety and growth together.

? Reviewing the PMS Approach

– PMS charges are usually 2-2.5% annually.
– They may also take a performance-linked fee.
– These eat into your returns.
– PMS is suitable for very high-risk appetite individuals.
– Also, it lacks daily visibility and flexibility.
– Mutual funds through an MFD with CFP help are more transparent.
– These also allow easier goal tracking.
– Consider shifting some of the PMS corpus to mutual funds.
– This will make the portfolio more aligned to your gifting goals.

? Gifting Strategy and Tax Implications

– Gifts to grandchildren are not taxable in their hands.
– But growth from these investments will be taxed.
– Equity mutual funds: LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
– STCG taxed at 20%.
– This applies even to investments for grandchildren.
– Plan the gift transfers through proper documentation.
– Joint holding or third-party SIPs in their name is possible.
– Consult a tax advisor to handle the mechanics smoothly.

? Ensuring Estate Planning and Legal Clarity

– You have multiple assets and long-term goals.
– Estate planning is very important now.
– Prepare a registered Will covering all assets.
– Mention clear allocations and ownerships.
– Include mutual funds, PMS, shares, and properties.
– This will avoid future disputes or confusion.
– Also consider creating a Trust if needed.
– Especially for minor grandchildren, Trusts offer smooth control.
– A Certified Financial Planner and lawyer can help draft this properly.

? Inflation-Proofing Your Grandchildren’s Corpus

– You aim for Rs. 5 crore per grandchild in 15 years.
– Inflation will reduce purchasing power.
– That means future education and living costs will be higher.
– Long-term equity SIPs help fight inflation.
– Continue with 5% annual step-up as planned.
– This keeps investments ahead of inflation.
– Reinvest dividends if any, to ensure compounding is not interrupted.

? Reviewing the Real Estate Strategy from Legacy Lens

– You have three large real estate assets.
– This is not easy to divide among two grandchildren.
– Property disputes happen often in such cases.
– Liquidity is a problem during asset division.
– Instead, slowly shift to financial assets.
– Mutual funds or bonds are easier to transfer.
– They are clean, transparent, and hassle-free.
– Legacy planning becomes smoother when assets are financial.
– Discuss a phased exit plan from real estate with a Certified Financial Planner.

? Child-Specific Investment Strategy

– Since the children are minors, use guardian accounts.
– SIPs can be in their name with you as guardian.
– Choose child-oriented mutual funds for better structure.
– These come with lock-ins and purpose alignment.
– You can also use diversified equity mutual funds.
– Avoid investing in their name directly under direct plans.
– Regular plans through MFD + CFP offer better advice and clarity.
– MFDs with CFP certification provide goal-linked fund tracking.
– Direct funds do not offer regular reviews and behavioural coaching.

? Monitoring and Rebalancing Your Investment

– Once a year, review SIP progress.
– Check if fund performance is consistent.
– Replace underperformers if needed.
– Review risk levels with your Certified Financial Planner.
– Make small shifts based on market cycle.
– Don’t stop SIPs during market falls.
– In fact, falling markets add more units.
– That helps the SIP strategy work better.
– Use periodic rebalancing to keep portfolio in shape.

? Finally

– Your goal of Rs. 5 crore per grandchild is very possible.
– The SIP structure and 5% step-up are well planned.
– Continue this discipline for another 13 years.
– Review PMS, direct equities, and real estate exposure.
– Shift to more mutual funds with CFP advice.
– Create a robust Will and Trust structure.
– Protect health and emergency fund needs.
– You’ve done very well so far.
– With a few tweaks, your strategy will be even stronger.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

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Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Career
Hello, I am currently in Class 12 and preparing for JEE. I have not yet completed even 50% of the syllabus properly, but I aim to score around '110' marks. Could you suggest an effective strategy to achieve this? I know the target is relatively low, but I have category reservation, so it should be sufficient.
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Career
Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently a 1st year UG student studying engineering in Sairam Engineering College, But there the lack of exposure and strict academics feels so rigid and I don't like it that. It's like they don't gaf about skills but just wants us to memorize things and score a good CGPA, the only skill they want is you to memorize things and pass, there's even special class for students who don't perform well in academics and it is compulsory for them to attend or else the student and his/her parents needs to face authorities who lashes out. My question is when did engineering became something that requires good academics instead of actual learning and skill set. In sairam they provides us a coding platform in which we need to gain the required points for each semester which is ridiculous cuz most of the students here just look at the solution to code instead of actual debugging. I am passionate about engineering so I want to learn and experiment things instead of just memorizing, so I actually consider dropping out and I want to give jee a try and maybe viteee , srmjeee But i heard some people say SRM may provide exposure but not that good in placements. I may not be excellent at studies but my marks are decent. So gimme some insights about SRM and recommend me other colleges/universities which are good at exposure
Ans: First — your frustration is valid

What you are experiencing at Sairam is not engineering, it is rote-based credential production.

“When did engineering become memorizing instead of learning?”

Sadly, this shift happened decades ago in most Tier-3 private colleges in India.

About “coding platforms & points” – your observation is sharp

You are absolutely right:

Mandatory coding points → students copy solutions

Copying ≠ learning

Debugging & thinking are missing

This is pseudo-skill education — it looks modern but produces shallow engineers.

The fact that you noticed this in 1st year already puts you ahead of 80% students.

Should you DROP OUT and prepare for JEE / VITEEE / SRMJEEE?

Although VIT/SRM is better than Sairam Engineering College, but you may face the same problem. You will not face this type of problem only in some top IITs, but getting seat in those IITs will be difficult.
Instead of dropping immediately, consider:

???? Strategy:

Stay enrolled (degree security)

Reduce emotional investment in college rules

Use:

GitHub

Open-source projects

Hackathons

Internships (remote)

Hardware / software self-projects

This way:

College = formality

Learning = self-driven

Risk = minimal

...Read more

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