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Sanjeev

Sanjeev Govila  | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Aug 09, 2023

Colonel Sanjeev Govila (retd) is the founder of Hum Fauji Initiatives, a financial planning company dedicated to the armed forces personnel and their families.
He has over 12 years of experience in financial planning and is a SEBI certified registered investment advisor; he is also accredited with AMFI and IRDA.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Aug 09, 2023Hindi
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Money

I have multiple loan with outstanding of 32 lakhs. My salary is 1.3L pm and paying emi of 82k.Not able to figure it out how to get out this debt trap

Ans: My inputs sent for a magazine article yesterday may help you. Please go through it:-

Strategy to get out of debt trap

1. Debt Consolidation: This is streamlining your debts for clarity. Debt without consolidation is like juggling a bunch of puzzle pieces while presuming that you’re in control. Merge your scattered debts into one manageable loan, reducing confusion and the risk of missing payments. This smart move can lead to lower interest rates and simplified monthly payments, giving you a clearer path out of the debt maze.

2. Debt Avalanche Strategy: This strategy treats your debts as mountains and tells you to start climbing the steepest ones first, that is, tackling the highest peaks first and the lower peaks will then automatically become a cake-walk. So, with this strategy, you focus on the high-interest loans while making minimum payments on others. As you conquer one peak after another, your momentum builds, and soon you'll find yourself on the summit of debt-free living.

3. Credit Card Balance Transfer: IN this strategy, you swap the high-interest credit card debts for friendlier ones. Through a balance transfer, you move your existing credit card debt to a new card with lower interest, that is, shifting to a smoother terrain. This gives you breathing room to pay off the principal without being weighed down by sky-high interest.

4. Practical Tips to Conquer Debt:
1. Budget with Purpose: Lay out a clear budget that allocates extra funds to debt repayment while covering essentials.
2. Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Trim down on luxuries, and redirect the saved money towards settling your debts faster.
3. Build an Emergency Fund: Having a financial safety net prevents you from resorting to more debt during unexpected setbacks.
4. Negotiate with Lenders: Reach out to your lenders for potential interest rate reductions or extended payment plans.
5. Financial Windfalls: Put unexpected bonuses, tax refunds, or gifts towards debt reduction to accelerate your progress.

Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day – the same applies to debt repayment. By combining strategic methods and prudent financial habits, you can pave the way to a debt-free horizon.
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  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 02, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2024Hindi
Money
Sir I draw a salary of 36,000 and recently took a loan of 958000 without closing the previous personal loan of 8,03,000 and the total amount of EMI is now 34,400. How do I get put of this debt trap?
Ans: Managing a high EMI burden of Rs. 34,400 on a Rs. 36,000 salary is challenging. Immediate steps are necessary to reduce financial stress. Let’s address this comprehensively.

Understanding Your Debt Load
1. Evaluate Debt Composition

Review the interest rates for both loans.
Understand the remaining tenure and total outstanding amounts.
2. Identify High-Interest Debt

Personal loans typically have high-interest rates.
Focus on prioritising repayment of high-cost loans.
3. Assess EMI-to-Income Ratio

Your EMI-to-income ratio is nearly 95%.
Ideally, this should be under 40%.
Short-Term Solutions
1. Increase Monthly Cash Flow

Look for part-time work or freelance opportunities.
Generate additional income to cover living expenses.
2. Reduce Monthly Expenses

Cut non-essential spending immediately.
Focus on basic necessities until your situation stabilises.
3. Restructure Existing Loans

Approach your lender for restructuring options.
Extend tenure to lower monthly EMI.
4. Consolidate Loans

Consider consolidating both loans into one with a lower interest rate.
This can simplify repayment and reduce EMI.
Medium-Term Strategies
1. Create a Budget

Track all income and expenses diligently.
Allocate every rupee to ensure repayment is on track.
2. Negotiate with Lenders

Explain your financial situation to the bank.
Request reduced interest rates or temporary relief.
3. Use Emergency Savings (If Any)

Utilise existing savings to repay a portion of the debt.
Focus on high-interest loans for maximum benefit.
4. Avoid New Debt

Do not take additional loans or credit cards.
Focus solely on repayment.
Long-Term Steps for Financial Stability
1. Build an Emergency Fund

Start saving once debt reduces.
Aim for at least 3–6 months of expenses as a buffer.
2. Learn Financial Discipline

Avoid unnecessary borrowing in the future.
Plan major expenses well in advance.
3. Seek Professional Help

Consult a Certified Financial Planner for tailored advice.
Create a roadmap for debt elimination and wealth creation.
4. Focus on Income Growth

Invest in skill development to increase earning potential.
A higher salary can ease debt repayment significantly.
Risks of Default
1. Impact on Credit Score

Defaulting on EMIs can severely damage your credit score.
A poor credit score affects future loan eligibility.
2. Legal Consequences

Lenders may initiate recovery actions if EMIs are missed.
Avoid default by restructuring loans or seeking assistance.
Final Insights
Your current financial situation requires immediate and structured action. Start by increasing cash flow, reducing expenses, and restructuring your loans. Over time, focus on financial discipline and income growth. A Certified Financial Planner can help you create a personalised debt repayment strategy and guide you towards a stable financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 20, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Sir, I have home loan of 1 cr, personal loan of 15 lakhs and debts of 15 lakhs the home loan and PL emi' s are 1.40 lakhs monthly expenses is 20k and debt interest is 40k and my monthly income is 1.80 lakhs really worried how to get off the debt trap.
Ans: It takes courage to face it openly. You have already taken the first right step by asking for help. Let’s now move step-by-step to bring you out of this debt trap.

Snapshot of Your Current Situation
Home Loan Outstanding: Rs. 1 crore

Personal Loan Outstanding: Rs. 15 lakhs

Other High-Interest Debts: Rs. 15 lakhs

Total EMI (Home + Personal Loans): Rs. 1.40 lakhs/month

Monthly Interest on Other Debts: Rs. 40,000/month

Monthly Household Expenses: Rs. 20,000

Total Monthly Outgo: Rs. 2 lakhs

Monthly Income: Rs. 1.80 lakhs

Shortfall Every Month: Rs. 20,000

You are in a negative cash flow zone. This is financially stressful and emotionally draining. But with clarity and structure, you can fix this.

Step 1: Emotion-Free Analysis of Debt Components
Let us classify your debts by priority:

Home Loan
Lower interest.

Long tenure.

Also gives tax benefits.

Should not be the first priority to repay.

Personal Loan
High EMI and higher interest.

Usually fixed tenure.

Needs attention, but not first priority.

Other Debts (Rs. 15 lakhs with Rs. 40,000 monthly interest)
These seem to be private borrowings or credit card dues.

Interest seems to be 30% to 36% yearly.

These are most dangerous. Focus on these first.

Step 2: Immediate Goals for Stabilising Finances
Stop further borrowing immediately.

No credit card usage. Cut all EMIs except essentials.

Maintain one family bank account. Consolidate cashflows.

Talk to family. Involve spouse in every money talk.

Step 3: Cut Non-Essential Expenses
Your monthly expenses are Rs. 20,000. Try reducing them further:

Use public transport or carpool.

No new gadgets, clothes, or home appliances.

Pause leisure subscriptions and weekend outings.

Buy groceries in bulk. Use loyalty discounts.

Bring down monthly expenses to Rs. 15,000 or lower. Every rupee saved here will help kill debt.

Step 4: Restructure High-Cost Debts First
Talk to Informal Lenders or Friends
Can you ask for 3–6 months break from interest?

Can you repay in lump-sum after clearing other loans?

Try to convert them into zero-interest EMIs, if possible.

Explore Loan Restructuring or Consolidation
Go to your bank.

Ask if they offer loan against property (LAP).

You already have a home loan. If there’s value, try to raise LAP to repay high-interest debts.

LAP interest is around 10%–12%, much lower than 30%–36%.

Personal Loan Top-Up Option
Talk to your personal loan bank.

Ask if top-up is possible with longer tenure.

Use top-up to repay high-cost informal debts.

Goal is to replace 30%-36% interest with 10%-12%.

Step 5: Create a Realistic Monthly Cash Flow Strategy
You are falling short by Rs. 20,000 every month.

How to fix this:

Reduce monthly expenses from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 15,000

Negotiate pause on Rs. 40,000 informal interest

Pause/extend personal loan tenure if bank agrees

Add side income if possible

Ideas to generate extra income:

Weekend tuition or online freelancing

Spouse contribution, if applicable

Renting part of home, if extra space

Selling unused items: bike, gadgets, furniture

Every additional Rs. 5,000 earned or saved will reduce your stress.

Step 6: Create a 2-Year Debt Clearance Blueprint
Target 1: Clear Rs. 15 lakhs informal debt in 12 to 15 months.
Target 2: Stretch personal loan tenure to lower EMI.
Target 3: Continue home loan as-is, without early closure.

Create a chart with the following:

Amount owed

Monthly payment

Proposed revised payment

Target month to close

Keep this chart visible in your home. Update monthly.

Step 7: Avoid These Common Traps
Don’t fall for instant debt consolidation apps

Don’t withdraw PF or PPF to repay loans

Don’t take loans from chit funds or unregulated lenders

Don’t mix emotional guilt while repaying friend/family loans

Don’t buy new insurance-cum-investment policies now

Step 8: Don’t Invest Until Debts Are Cleared
Many people keep SIPs and loans together.

Avoid that now.

Pause all SIPs for now.

Focus only on debt elimination.

Investing with 12% returns makes no sense when you are paying 30% interest.

Later, you can resume SIPs with strong foundation.

Step 9: Protect Your Family
Even while in debt, keep these protections:

Health insurance for all family members

Term insurance with sum assured at least 15 times annual income

Keep all insurance policies pure. No investment-linked ones

This will ensure family is not affected in any unfortunate event.

Step 10: Create a Simple Financial Diary
Write income, EMI, interest paid, and expenses daily

Track every rupee

This will build money awareness

Awareness creates responsibility

Responsibility leads to progress

Use a notebook or free app.

Update this every evening for 10 minutes.

Step 11: After 18–24 Months – Start Fresh Investments
Once your debts are under control:

Restart SIPs slowly

Prefer actively managed mutual funds

Avoid direct funds

Invest through a Certified Financial Planner or Mutual Fund Distributor

Direct funds may seem to save commission. But without guidance, mistakes are costlier. Regular plans give expert hand-holding.

Avoid index funds. They just copy markets. No downside protection. No human expertise. Active funds adjust to market risks better.

Step 12: Build Emergency Fund Once Debt-Free
After you are stable:

Build Rs. 1.5 to 2 lakhs emergency fund

Park it in liquid mutual funds or bank RD

Use only for real emergencies

This will keep you out of debt in the future.

Step 13: Educate Yourself on Financial Discipline
Read one good finance book every 3 months

Watch simple YouTube channels for personal finance

Avoid friends who push costly loans or chit schemes

Talk about money only with responsible people

Use money only to grow life, not to impress others

Finally
Your situation is difficult, but not permanent.

You are earning Rs. 1.80 lakhs monthly. That is your strength.

Just that debts have overtaken your income.

With planning, restructuring, and discipline, you can win.

Create a 2-year action calendar.

Stick to it. Update progress each month.

After 2 years, you will be free and proud.

Don’t walk alone. Involve your family.

And if required, work with a Certified Financial Planner.

They can build a structured step-by-step plan for you.

Best Regards,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 02, 2025

Money
Hi sir, My age is 32 I felt in debt trap. I got loans from loan apps and the outstanding is 700000 and personal loans 350000 and auto loans 1200000, credit cards 300000. Total around 25 laks and my salary is 50000 monthly I am paying emi of around 1,20,000. Till now I anyhow arranged the money and paid. Here after I don't want to take any new loans and how can I come over this situation. I tried my self with the lenders for emi restructuring. But they got rejected. Can I move over settlement or not. If yes can I try myself or by lawyer panels. If myself how can I do it. Kindly give me a solution
Ans: You are going through a very heavy phase. Anyone in your position will feel pressure, fear, and confusion. But you are reaching out, and that is the first and strongest step toward fixing this.

1. First, understand your situation clearly

Your salary: Rs 50,000
Your EMI burden: Rs 1,20,000

This means your EMI is more than 2 times your income, which is impossible to sustain.
You cannot continue like this. It will break your finances and mental health.

You MUST take corrective action immediately.

2. Why you feel trapped

– Loans from loan apps usually have very high interest
– Personal loans + auto loans + credit cards create multi-layer pressure
– Multiple EMIs → different due dates → late fees → more stress
– Mental pressure pushes you to borrow more → cycle becomes endless

This is a classic debt spiral, but the good news is that there are structured ways out.

3. Should you go for settlement?

Settlement is possible, but you must understand the pros and cons:

Pros

– EMI pressure reduces
– You close loans at a lower amount
– You get relief and can rebuild your life

Cons

– Your CIBIL score will drop
– For 3–7 years, you may struggle to get new loans
– Banks will mark your account as “settled” instead of “closed”
– You must negotiate carefully

But in your case, settlement is a practical option, because continuing payments is impossible.

4. Should you do settlement yourself or through a lawyer/agency?
Option A: Do it yourself

You CAN negotiate yourself.
Most lenders accept settlement offers when:

– You have overdue payments
– You show financial difficulty
– You speak politely and consistently
– You give a reasonable lump-sum offer

But: You should know how to talk, how much to offer, what to sign, and what not to sign.

Option B: Lawyer panels / debt advisors

They take fees, but they:

– Negotiate on your behalf
– Handle calls and pressure
– Know the legal terms
– Know how lenders behave
– Protect you from harassment

If you feel mentally stressed, a lawyer panel is better.

5. If you want to negotiate yourself, here is the exact step-by-step script
Step 1: Stop paying all loans temporarily

This sounds scary, but you are already unable to pay.
Missing EMIs will:

– Show lenders you are in real financial hardship
– Make them more open to settlement

Step 2: Wait for 60–90 days of overdue

This is when lenders are most flexible for negotiation.

Step 3: Start settlement conversations

Call or wait for their collection department to call you.

You can say:

“Sir, I am unable to manage my EMIs. My salary is only Rs 50,000.
I want to close this loan. I cannot pay full amount.
If you give a settlement offer, I can arrange some money and close it.”

Be calm. Don’t argue.

Step 4: Decide your offer

Typical settlement percentage:

– Credit cards: 40%–60%
– Personal loans: 40%–70%
– Loan apps: 30%–50%
– Auto loans: Depends on vehicle recovery

You can start with a low offer (30–40%) because lenders will negotiate up.

Step 5: Get “Settlement Letter” before paying

NEVER pay without getting:

– Settlement letter
– Amount confirmation
– Payment breakup
– Timeline
– Mode of payment

This letter protects you legally.

Step 6: Pay only through bank transfer

Never UPI to field agents.
Never give cash.

Step 7: Keep all documents safely

This protects you if lenders try to collect again in future.

6. Should you continue paying now or stop immediately?

With your EMI at Rs 1,20,000 and income at Rs 50,000:

You MUST stop immediately.
Continuing payments will destroy your finances and mental stability.

You are already exhausted. You need a reset.

Missing EMIs will push your accounts into “delinquency”, after which lenders become flexible.

This is a strategy, not failure.

7. How to avoid legal trouble during settlement

– Stay polite and responsive
– Don’t block lender calls
– Don’t avoid communication
– Keep records of all conversations
– Ask for written confirmation
– Never sign anything without reading
– Keep calm; 99% of cases do not go to court

Legal action is extremely rare in small retail loans unless you ignore them for years.

8. How to manage loan apps

Loan apps behave aggressively.
Here is what to do:

– Don’t get scared by threats
– They cannot visit your home legally
– They cannot call your contacts legally
– They cannot harass you legally
– You can complain to RBI if needed

They usually settle at lower amounts because they know their interest rates are unreasonable.

9. Auto loan strategy

You have Rs 12 lakh auto loan.

If EMI is too big, consider:

– Voluntary surrender of vehicle
– Lender sells it
– You pay only the balance after sale

This reduces a huge burden.

This is better than getting it seized later.

10. Your first 60-day action plan
Day 1–30

– Stop all EMIs
– Track calls
– Start talking to lenders calmly

Day 30–60

– Begin settlement negotiation
– Target highest-interest loans first (loan apps, credit cards)
– Avoid personal loans till later
– Keep weekly communication

Day 60–90

– Finalise settlement
– Pay only after getting settlement letter

11. After settlement, rebuilding your life

Once loans are settled:

Step 1: Build emergency fund
Step 2: Stop using credit cards
Step 3: Start budgeting
Step 4: Start small savings
Step 5: Slowly rebuild CIBIL

Within 2–3 years, your credit will recover.

12. The most important point

You are NOT alone.
Millions face this situation.
Most come out.
You can also come out.
Debt traps feel final, but they are fixable.

You need a structured plan and calm execution.

And you have already taken the most important step—you asked for help.

You will come out of this.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Career
Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...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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