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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Prasanna Question by Prasanna on Dec 17, 2023Hindi
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sir, i have made fore closure of home loan(out-standing upto 6 laks). For that to happen i was asked to close even one lakh amount towards home loan insurance(SBI insurance). As i had money, i closed home loan as well as requisite loan insurance amount of one lakh. My question is if i foreclose my loan , why should give complete loan insurance part also. will i get pro rata money for preclosing insurance amount( one lakh)

Ans: When you foreclose a loan, the associated insurance often needs to be closed as well, as it's linked to the loan. Unfortunately, insurance premiums are generally non-refundable upon premature closure. However, you can check the policy terms or contact SBI insurance to see if any pro-rata refund is possible for the insurance amount paid.
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  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 06, 2024

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I took houseing loan at axis bank with25 years repayment term and covered life insurance for the loan amount. But i closed said loan with in 28 months.shall i get back proposanate insurance premium paid by me.
Ans: Understanding the Insurance Premium Refund Process

When you close a housing loan early, you might wonder about getting back the insurance premium. The insurance you bought covered the loan term. Now, let's explore if you can get a refund for the insurance premium paid.

Nature of Loan Insurance

Loan insurance safeguards the lender and your family. If something happens to you, the insurance pays off the loan. It’s a crucial element in securing financial stability. But when you repay the loan early, the scenario changes.

Terms and Conditions of Insurance Policies

Insurance policies come with specific terms and conditions. These conditions dictate the refund policy. Usually, insurers have clauses about refunding premiums if the loan is closed early. Reading these terms is essential to know your entitlement.

Pro-rata Refunds

Some insurance companies offer a pro-rata refund. This means you get a refund based on the remaining term of the policy. For instance, if your loan was for 25 years and you closed it in 28 months, you might get a refund for the unused period. This could be a significant amount, given the long-term nature of your original policy.

Administrative Fees and Charges

Be aware of administrative fees and charges. Insurance companies might deduct these fees from your refund. This can affect the total amount you receive back. Ensure you understand these potential deductions by reviewing your policy documents or speaking with your insurance provider.

Communication with Your Insurance Provider

To initiate the refund process, contact your insurance provider. They will guide you through the steps needed to process your refund. Having all your loan and insurance documents handy will streamline this communication.

Importance of Documenting Communication

Keep records of all communications with your insurance provider. Emails, letters, and call logs are crucial. This documentation can be useful if there are disputes or delays in processing your refund.

Insurance Policy Alternatives Post Loan Closure

After closing your loan, you might still need insurance coverage. Reassessing your insurance needs is wise. A Certified Financial Planner can help you determine the best coverage to protect your financial interests moving forward.

Reinvestment of Refund

If you receive a refund, consider how to use it wisely. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide insights. They can guide you on reinvesting the money in mutual funds or other beneficial financial products.

Common Misconceptions about Insurance Refunds

Many people believe that closing a loan guarantees a refund of the insurance premium. This is not always the case. The refund depends on the specific terms of your insurance policy. Understanding these nuances can save you from unrealistic expectations.

Assessing the Financial Impact

Evaluate the financial impact of closing your loan and getting an insurance refund. This analysis helps in understanding the overall benefit. You might find that the refund can be a valuable addition to your financial planning strategy.

Potential Delays in Refund Processing

Be prepared for possible delays in the refund process. Insurance companies have their procedures and timelines. Staying patient and following up regularly can ensure a smoother process.

Appreciating the Value of Insurance

Even though you might get a refund, it’s crucial to appreciate the value insurance provided while your loan was active. It offered peace of mind and financial security, which is invaluable.

Conclusion

Closing your loan early and seeking a refund on your insurance premium is a prudent financial move. Understanding the terms, communicating effectively with your provider, and planning the use of your refund are essential steps. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can further enhance your financial strategy.

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 Jul 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 23, 2025Hindi
Money
Sir, I had taken a plot loan of Rs.10 lakhs from Indiabulls Bank for which I paid a premium of 30000 for the insurance. I have completed the loan through prepayment after 4-5 years. What happens to the loan insurance premium paid after completing the loan? Will there be any chance of claiming part of the insurance premium paid in case of early closure of loan through prepayment? If so, can I claim it even after 5 years of closure of the insurance coverage (It closed in 2020)
Ans: Understanding the Loan Insurance Premium Paid
You took a plot loan of Rs. 10 lakh.

Paid Rs. 30,000 towards loan insurance.

You closed the loan early by prepayment.

You want to know if you can get any part of the premium back.

Loan insurance is usually a single premium group term insurance.
It is designed to protect the loan liability.

What This Loan Insurance Covered
Usually:

It covers the borrower’s death during the loan term.

The insurance company repays the loan if the borrower dies.

It gives peace of mind to the family.

But it is not like life insurance with maturity benefit.
If the loan is closed, the coverage ends.

Can You Get a Refund of the Premium?
Let us see what may happen in each case.

Case 1: Policy had surrender value clause

Some loan insurance products allow surrender refund on early closure.

This is usually only applicable if the policy term is more than 5 years.

But the refund is on pro-rata basis.

It depends on how early you closed the loan.

You must check if such refund clause was present in your insurance

Case 2: No refund clause

Many loan-linked insurance plans do not refund if policy is surrendered.

Especially single premium policies.

The premium is treated as used once the cover begins.

What Happens After Prepayment
Once loan is closed, coverage stops.

Insurance protection ends.

In most cases, no refund is given.

Exception is only if policy document says so.

Hence, please:

Check the policy copy.

See if “premium refund on foreclosure” is mentioned.

Contact the insurer directly.

Is There a Deadline to Claim Refund?
Yes, usually:

Refund request must be made within a few months of loan closure.

You mentioned the loan closed in 2020.

It is now more than 4–5 years.

So, in most situations, refund is no longer possible now.

Next Steps You Can Take
Please follow these steps for clarity:

Search for the original policy

Look for a clause on refund after foreclosure.

If you cannot find the policy, contact Indiabulls.

Ask for insurance certificate copy from the loan records.

Contact the insurance company that issued the loan cover.

Check if any surrender value was applicable.

Ask them if any refund is still possible.

But realistically, after 5 years, refund is unlikely.

What You Can Learn From This
This situation gives important lessons:

Always ask the lender for details before buying loan insurance.

Confirm if refund is possible on early closure.

Keep the insurance documents safely.

Try to buy loan insurance independently from a reputed insurer.

In future:

Take a term plan with flat premium instead of loan-linked insurance.

This will give full value and flexible coverage.

Role of Certified Financial Planner in Such Situations
You should:

Speak with a Certified Financial Planner before taking such products.

They will guide you on alternatives.

They explain surrender value, refund eligibility, and cover adequacy.

Bank agents may not do this. Their focus is on selling.

Avoiding Such Mistakes in Future
Some practical suggestions:

Never mix insurance with loan blindly.

Loan insurance should always be optional, not forced.

Ask for written proof of refund eligibility before paying premium.

Keep track of policy term, coverage, and surrender benefits.

Review all financial documents every year.

Avoid single premium plans unless necessary.

Importance of Policy Review and Documentation
Please remember:

Always get a copy of the insurance policy at the time of purchase.

Store it safely with loan papers.

Read the terms or ask a Certified Financial Planner to read for you.

Note down any refund or benefit timelines clearly.

Best Alternatives to Loan Insurance
You may consider the following safer options in future:

Take a pure term insurance plan with Rs. 50 lakh or more cover.

This will protect your family against all liabilities.

You can use this term cover for multiple loans.

Premiums are low and coverage is better.

If the loan ends early, your term plan continues.

No wastage. Full protection.

Final Insights
To answer your main concern again:

If the policy had a refund clause, it must be claimed within time.

Since the loan closed in 2020, refund is not possible now.

But checking the documents will give full clarity.

If possible, get written clarification from insurer.

For future:

Don’t accept loan insurance without understanding.

Seek help of a Certified Financial Planner before signing loan documents.

Protect your wealth with informed choices.

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

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10854 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 14, 2025

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.
Ans: With category reservation (SC/ST/OBC), a score of 110 marks is absolutely achievable and realistic. Based on 2025 data, SC candidates qualified with approximately 60-65 percentile, and ST candidates with 45-55 percentile. Your target requires scoring just 37-40% marks, which is significantly lower than general category standards. This gives you a genuine advantage. Immediate Action Plan (December 2025 - January 2026): 4-5 Weeks. Week 1-2: High-Weightage Chapter Focus. Stop trying to complete the entire syllabus. Instead, focus exclusively on high-scoring chapters that carry maximum weightage: Physics (Modern Physics, Current Electricity, Work-Power-Energy, Rotation, Magnetism), Chemistry (Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Coordination Compounds, Electrochemistry), and Maths (Integration, Differentiation, Vectors, 3D Geometry, Probability). These chapters alone can yield 80-100+ marks if practiced properly. Ignore topics you haven't studied yet. Week 2-3: Previous Year Questions (PYQs). Solve JEE Main PYQs from the last 10 years (2015-2025) for chapters you're studying. PYQs reveal question patterns and difficulty levels. Focus on understanding why answers are correct, not memorizing solutions. Week 3-4: Mock Tests & Error Analysis. Take 2-3 full-length mock tests weekly under timed conditions. This is crucial because mock tests build exam confidence, reveal time management weaknesses, and error analysis prevents repeated mistakes. Maintain an error notebook documenting every mistake—this becomes your revision guide. Week 4-5: Revision & Formula Consolidation. Create concise formula sheets for each subject. Spend 30 minutes daily reviewing formulas and key concepts. Avoid learning new topics entirely at this stage. Study Schedule (Daily): 7-8 Hours. Morning (5:00-7:30 AM): Physics concepts + 30 PYQs. Break (7:30-8:30 AM): Breakfast & rest. Mid-morning (8:30-11:00): Chemistry concepts + 20 PYQs. Lunch (11:00-1:00 PM): Full break. Afternoon (1:00-3:30 PM): Maths concepts + 30 PYQs. Evening (3:30-5:00 PM): Mock test or error review. Night (7:00-9:00 PM): Formula revision & weak area focus. Strategic Approach for 110 Marks: Attempt only confident questions and avoid negative marking by skipping difficult questions. Do easy questions first—in the exam, attempt all basic-level questions before attempting medium or hard ones. Focus on quality over quantity as 30 well-practiced questions beat 100 random questions. Master NCERT concepts as most JEE questions test NCERT concepts applied smartly. April 2026 Session Advantage. If January doesn't deliver desired results, April gives you a second chance with 3+ months to prepare. Use January as a practice attempt to identify weak areas, then focus intensively on those in February-March. Realistic Timeline: January 2026 target is 95-110 marks (achievable with focused 50% syllabus), while April 2026 target is 120-130 marks (with complete syllabus + experience). Your reservation benefit means you need only approximately 90-105 marks to qualify and secure admission to quality engineering colleges. Stop comparing yourself to general category cutoffs. Most Importantly: Consistency beats perfection. Study 6 focused hours daily rather than 12 distracted hours. Your 110-mark target is realistic—execute this plan with discipline. All the BEST for Your JEE 2026!

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Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1840 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
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

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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