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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 02, 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
Gaurav Question by Gaurav on Jun 19, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi Sir My name gaurav. My age is 38. My EPF amount is 40 lakhs, company NPS is 14 lacks. I have stocks worth of 35 lakhs. I have invested 18 lacks in mutual funds. I am continuously investing 10000 rs/ month for my first child since 4 years and 10000 rs/ month for my second child since 3 year in mutual fund. Plus I have also taken pension plan for my self which is 15000 rs/ month since 4 year. I have invested 10 lakhs in FD. Can I take early retirement at the age of 45. Pl tell me. I have no load liabilities and I have my own house

Ans: Hello Gaurav,

First, let me commend you on your impressive financial planning. You have accumulated a substantial corpus through various investments and have thoughtfully planned for your children’s future. Your diligent efforts and foresight are commendable. Now, let's explore whether you can take early retirement at the age of 45, considering your current financial situation and future goals.

Understanding Your Current Financial Status
You have a diversified portfolio comprising EPF, NPS, stocks, mutual funds, and fixed deposits. Let's break down each of these:

EPF: Rs 40 lakhs
NPS: Rs 14 lakhs
Stocks: Rs 35 lakhs
Mutual Funds: Rs 18 lakhs
Monthly SIP for Children: Rs 10,000 each (for 4 years and 3 years)
Pension Plan: Rs 15,000 per month (for 4 years)
Fixed Deposit: Rs 10 lakhs
No liabilities: You own your house
These investments are well-distributed across various asset classes, providing a good mix of growth and stability.

Evaluating Your Retirement Goal
Retiring at 45 means you have seven years to grow your current investments. Post-retirement, you will need to sustain your lifestyle without a regular salary. Let's examine your readiness for early retirement by analyzing the following factors:

Estimating Post-Retirement Expenses
Basic Living Expenses: Calculate your monthly and annual living expenses. Consider inflation and lifestyle changes post-retirement.
Healthcare Costs: These tend to increase with age. Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage.
Children’s Education and Marriage: Plan for your children’s higher education and marriage expenses.
Travel and Leisure: Retirement often brings the desire to travel and pursue hobbies. Budget for these activities.
Analyzing Your Investment Portfolio
EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund)
EPF is a secure and tax-efficient investment. The interest is compounded annually, making it a powerful tool for long-term savings. However, it is primarily a retirement-oriented investment, and premature withdrawal can result in tax implications and loss of compounding benefits.

NPS (National Pension System)
NPS is a good retirement planning tool due to its tax benefits and market-linked returns. It provides a mix of equity and debt exposure. However, a portion of the corpus must be used to purchase an annuity, which may not be ideal for early retirement as it reduces immediate liquidity.

Stocks
Your investment in stocks is commendable as it offers significant growth potential. However, the stock market is volatile. It’s crucial to regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to mitigate risks.

Mutual Funds
Mutual funds provide diversification and professional management. Your ongoing SIPs are beneficial as they instill investment discipline and leverage the power of rupee cost averaging.

Fixed Deposits
FDs offer safety and guaranteed returns but usually provide lower returns compared to other investment options. They should be part of your portfolio to ensure liquidity and stability.

Pension Plan
Your pension plan is another pillar of your retirement planning. It’s essential to understand the plan’s payout structure and ensure it aligns with your post-retirement needs.

Advantages of Mutual Funds
Diversification: Mutual funds invest in a diversified portfolio, reducing risk.
Professional Management: Expert fund managers handle investments.
Liquidity: Easy to buy and sell, providing flexibility.
Power of Compounding: Reinvested returns generate more returns, accelerating wealth accumulation.
Risks of Mutual Funds
Market Risk: Equity funds are subject to market fluctuations.
Credit Risk: Debt funds carry the risk of default by issuers.
Liquidity Risk: Certain funds might face liquidity issues during market downturns.
The Power of Compounding
Compounding allows your returns to generate further returns, significantly boosting your wealth over time. Starting early and staying invested are crucial to harnessing its full potential.

Assessing Your Monthly Investments
You are investing Rs 10,000 each for your two children in mutual funds and Rs 15,000 in a pension plan. These consistent investments are building a substantial corpus for their future and your retirement.

Children's Education Fund
Your current investments will grow significantly by the time your children need funds for higher education. Continue monitoring and adjusting the SIP amounts as needed based on their future needs.

Retirement Corpus Calculation
Current Investments: Total of EPF, NPS, stocks, mutual funds, FD.
Future Value: Estimate the future value of these investments considering the compounding effect and expected returns.
Monthly Withdrawal: Determine the monthly amount required to maintain your lifestyle post-retirement.
Withdrawal Rate: Ensure a sustainable withdrawal rate to avoid depleting your corpus too soon.
Steps to Ensure a Smooth Early Retirement
Continue Investing: Maintain your SIPs and pension contributions.
Increase Contributions: Gradually increase your monthly SIPs if possible.
Diversify Portfolio: Regularly rebalance your portfolio to maintain an optimal mix of assets.
Build an Emergency Fund: Set aside funds to cover unexpected expenses.
Review Insurance: Ensure adequate health and life insurance coverage.
Debt-Free: Remain free from liabilities to reduce financial stress.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized advice and help you make informed decisions. They can assist in:

Holistic Planning: Consider all aspects of your financial situation.
Tailored Strategy: Develop a strategy that aligns with your goals.
Risk Management: Identify and mitigate potential risks.
Final Insights
Gaurav, your current financial status is impressive. You have diversified investments and no liabilities, which is a strong foundation for early retirement. However, retiring at 45 requires careful planning and disciplined execution.

Plan Meticulously: Detailed planning is crucial to ensure financial security.
Stay Informed: Regularly update yourself on market trends and investment options.
Be Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plans based on changing circumstances.
Seek Help: Professional guidance can significantly enhance your planning and execution.
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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 19, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 19, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hello Sir.I am 41 yrs old female working in govt bank.I have 31 lacs fd,32 lacs nps,10 lacs mf,other benefits 15 lacs if i take early retirement. I have assets in real state around 1.50 cr.living in own house worth rs 90lacs.My spouse is self employed with income which is little unstable wheareas my income is 1lac p.m.We hav one child 10 yrs old.Our current expenses are 80000/= p.m .we hav term and health insurance for our family for 50 lacs. i want to know what are your opinion if i take early retirement?if my savings are enough? Is is financially .good for future or may raise financial issues?I may work if i get some interesting work in future but not sure about it?
Ans: Early retirement is an important financial decision. Your situation requires careful analysis from all angles. Below is a detailed review to help you assess your readiness.

Current Financial Standing
Fixed Deposits: Rs. 31 lakhs provides stability but low returns.

NPS: Rs. 32 lakhs ensures retirement-focused growth but lacks immediate liquidity.

Mutual Funds: Rs. 10 lakhs adds diversification and long-term potential.

Early Retirement Benefits: Rs. 15 lakhs can act as a financial cushion.

Real Estate: Assets worth Rs. 1.50 crore are non-liquid and hold long-term value.

Own House: Worth Rs. 90 lakhs; eliminates rent and provides security.

Income and Expenses Analysis
Current Monthly Income: Rs. 1 lakh ensures financial stability.

Spouse’s Income: Variable, adding uncertainty to household cash flow.

Monthly Expenses: Rs. 80,000, leaving Rs. 20,000 surplus from your income.

Strengths in Your Financial Profile
Term and Health Insurance: Rs. 50 lakhs covers major uncertainties for your family.

Child’s Age: At 10 years, financial needs will peak over the next decade.

Savings Portfolio: A balanced mix of fixed deposits, NPS, and mutual funds.

Concerns About Early Retirement
1. Long-Term Expense Management

Current expenses of Rs. 80,000 will rise due to inflation.

Post-retirement, expenses will rely on your investments and spouse’s income.

2. Educational Expenses

Your child’s higher education will need a significant corpus in 8–10 years.

Ensure funds are allocated early to avoid last-minute stress.

3. Retirement Corpus Sufficiency

NPS and mutual funds may need more time to grow for retirement.

Fixed deposits may lose value against inflation due to low returns.

4. Uncertain Income Post-Retirement

Spouse’s fluctuating income may create cash flow gaps.

Your re-employment plans are uncertain and may not materialise.

Recommendations to Strengthen Your Financial Plan
1. Build a Robust Retirement Corpus

Continue contributing to NPS for tax benefits and retirement savings.

Diversify into equity funds for long-term growth with professional advice.

2. Improve Liquidity in Investments

Convert part of your fixed deposits into balanced mutual funds.

Balanced funds ensure steady growth with moderate risk.

3. Allocate for Child’s Education

Start a dedicated education fund using a mix of equity and hybrid funds.

This will help meet your child’s higher education needs stress-free.

4. Manage Spouse’s Income Volatility

Create an emergency fund equal to 12 months’ expenses (Rs. 10–12 lakhs).

This will cushion the family during any income disruptions.

5. Optimise Current Expenses

Save at least Rs. 10,000–15,000 monthly from current surplus income.

Direct these savings into systematic investment plans (SIPs).

6. Avoid Dependence on Real Estate

Real estate is illiquid and not suitable for meeting short-term needs.

Focus on liquid investments like mutual funds for flexibility.

7. Tax Planning for Investments

Gains from equity mutual funds above Rs. 1.25 lakh attract 12.5% LTCG tax.

Plan withdrawals strategically to minimise taxes.

8. Review and Update Insurance

Ensure your term insurance covers both liabilities and future goals.

Review health insurance adequacy annually to account for medical inflation.

Financial Projections
Use professional assistance to project retirement expenses and corpus growth.

Ensure your retirement corpus can support Rs. 1 lakh per month (inflation-adjusted).

Factor in child’s education and future medical costs.

Final Insights
Early retirement is possible with careful adjustments to your portfolio. Focus on building a larger retirement corpus while ensuring liquidity for short-term goals. Spouse’s income uncertainty and your child’s education are key factors to consider. Regular reviews with a Certified Financial Planner can provide clarity and direction.

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 Dec 03, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 29, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi , I am 46 year old and trying to see if i can take an early retirement in next 2 years. Below is my financial condition;. we are 3 in family my my wife and one 14 year old son. - Mutual fund 40Lakh - FD 30 Lakhs - 2 rental yielding flat with total rent of 55000 per month - Own house with no loan. - PF 80 Lakhs - NPS 10 Lakhs - PPF 20 Lakhs - Term insurance 50Lakhs
Ans: Your financial position shows good planning and discipline.

Assets Summary:

Mutual Funds: Rs 40 lakh
Fixed Deposits: Rs 30 lakh
Rental Income: Rs 55,000 per month from two flats
Own House: Fully paid, no loan liabilities
Provident Fund (PF): Rs 80 lakh
National Pension System (NPS): Rs 10 lakh
Public Provident Fund (PPF): Rs 20 lakh
Term Insurance: Rs 50 lakh
You have built a diversified portfolio across multiple asset classes.

Assessing Early Retirement Feasibility
Early retirement in two years can be achieved with strategic planning.

Key Factors to Evaluate:

Monthly Expenses: Calculate post-retirement expenses, including inflation.
Income Sources: Ensure rental income, investments, and withdrawals meet your needs.
Wealth Growth: Balance corpus growth with income stability.
Monthly Expense Coverage
Assume your future monthly expense is Rs 1.25 lakh.

Existing Income Streams:

Rental Income: Rs 55,000 monthly provides 44% of estimated expenses.
Corpus Withdrawals: Use investments to cover remaining expenses.
Adjust for Inflation:

Plan for a 6% inflation rate to protect purchasing power.
Investment Strategy
Align your portfolio for growth, stability, and liquidity.

Mutual Funds:

Continue investing in equity-oriented funds for long-term growth.
Opt for actively managed funds through Certified Financial Planners.
Avoid index funds; they limit opportunities for alpha generation.
Fixed Deposits:

Reallocate a portion to debt mutual funds for better post-tax returns.
Retain some FDs for emergencies and short-term needs.
NPS and PPF:

Maximise NPS contributions for additional tax savings.
Allow PPF to mature for risk-free, tax-exempt growth.
Corpus Withdrawal Plan
A systematic withdrawal strategy ensures steady income.

Use Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP) in mutual funds for monthly cash flow.
Keep withdrawal rates below 4% annually to sustain the corpus.
Children’s Education Planning
Your son’s education may require significant funds.

Steps to Plan for Education Costs:

Use PPF maturity or mutual fund proceeds for higher education.
Avoid using retirement corpus for educational expenses.
Risk Management
Protecting your family is as critical as building wealth.

Term Insurance Coverage:

Rs 50 lakh is adequate for income replacement.
Ensure policies are active and nominees updated.
Health Insurance:

Opt for a comprehensive family floater policy with Rs 20–25 lakh coverage.
Keep health-related emergency funds for additional expenses.
Tax Planning
Efficient tax planning maximises post-retirement income.

Mutual Fund Taxation:

Equity fund LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
Short-term gains are taxed at 20%. Plan withdrawals carefully.
Fixed Deposit Interest:

FD interest is taxable as per your slab. Consider this in income planning.
Real Estate Considerations
Your rental flats provide steady income.

Points to Consider:

Avoid further real estate investments for better liquidity.
Keep properties well-maintained to ensure uninterrupted rental income.
Healthcare and Emergency Funds
Unplanned medical costs can affect your finances.

Steps to Safeguard:

Maintain Rs 10–15 lakh in liquid assets for emergencies.
Regularly review health insurance coverage to meet rising costs.
Assessing Early Retirement Timing
Your early retirement is achievable by 48 years with careful execution.

Why This is Feasible:

Rental income and portfolio can meet monthly needs.
A diversified asset base ensures sustainable returns.
Finally
Early retirement is within your reach with disciplined planning.

Review your financial plan annually and adjust for changes in needs or markets.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Naveenn

Naveenn Kummar  |235 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 19, 2025Hindi
Money
My age is 42 years and I would like to retire in next 5 years. I will be getting a pension of 1 lakh per month, I also have mutual fund portfolio of 2 crore as on today, EPF of 30 Lakh, One Plot Valued 20 lakh, Spouse working with salary of 90000. Current expenses are about 75000 rs per month. Kids aged 14 & 9 years. Kindly advise if I can go ahead with my decision of early retirement
Ans: Dear Sir,

Thank you for sharing your detailed financial information. Considering your goal of retiring in the next 5 years, let’s review your situation carefully.

1. Current Financial Snapshot

Age: 42 years

Income: Spouse ?90,000/month, your pension post-retirement ?1 lakh/month

Investments/Assets:

Mutual Funds: ?2 Cr

EPF: ?30 Lakh

Plot: ?20 Lakh

Expenses: ?75,000/month currently

Children: 14 and 9 years old, with education and other needs ahead

2. Considerations Before Early Retirement

Children’s Education & Other Goals:

Your kids will have several years of schooling and possibly higher education. Allocate a separate corpus for their education so that retirement funds aren’t tapped.

Inflation Impact:

Current expenses of ?75,000/month will increase with inflation over the next 5 years and during retirement. Planning should consider inflation-adjusted expenses.

Healthcare & Contingencies:

Ensure adequate medical coverage for yourself, spouse, and children.

Keep an emergency corpus to cover unexpected expenses without dipping into retirement funds.

Retirement Corpus Adequacy:

Your pension of ?1 lakh/month plus spouse income provides some regular cash flow.

Your MF + EPF + Plot totaling ~?2.5–2.6 Cr should be sufficient for retirement if withdrawals are planned carefully and equity exposure is maintained for growth.

3. Recommended Actions

Separate Education Corpus: Set aside funds for kids’ schooling and higher education from part of your MF portfolio.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): Post-retirement, withdraw from mutual funds systematically to cover monthly expenses, adjusting for inflation.

Portfolio Diversification: Keep a mix of equity for growth and debt for stability, ensuring corpus lasts 30+ years.

Health & Insurance: Purchase comprehensive family floater health insurance and consider top-up plans for higher coverage.

Periodic Review: Reassess portfolio annually with a QPFP professional to adjust withdrawals, asset allocation, and any unexpected changes in expenses.

4. Summary

With careful planning for children’s education, inflation-adjusted expenses, and adequate medical coverage, your current assets and pension, combined with your spouse’s income, make early retirement feasible. The key is to structure withdrawals and monitor the portfolio regularly to ensure sustainability over the long term.

Best regards,
Naveenn Kummar, BE, MBA, QPFP
Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
www.alenova.in
https://www.instagram.com/alenova_wealth

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 20, 2025Hindi
Money
My age is 42 years and I would like to retire in next 5 years. I will be getting a pension of 1 lakh per month, I also have mutual fund portfolio of 2 crore as on today, EPF of 30 Lakh, One Plot Valued 20 lakh, Spouse working with salary of 90000. Current expenses are about 75000 rs per month. Kids aged 14 & 9 years. Kindly advise if I can go ahead with my decision of early retirement.
Ans: You are already in a very strong financial position at 42. Planning retirement in 5 years with a secured pension and a large mutual fund portfolio is a bold and inspiring thought. Many people your age struggle with clarity, but you have shown great progress. Now, let us see from a 360-degree view whether retiring at 47 is realistic for you.

» Present Financial Strength

You will receive Rs. 1 lakh monthly pension after retirement.

Mutual fund portfolio value is Rs. 2 crore today.

EPF value is Rs. 30 lakh.

You own a plot valued at Rs. 20 lakh.

Your spouse earns Rs. 90,000 monthly.

Current monthly household expense is Rs. 75,000.

You have two children aged 14 and 9.

This gives a strong foundation. But careful planning is needed for long-term security, children’s goals, and lifestyle inflation.

» Income Vs Expenses After Retirement

Your pension will be Rs. 1 lakh per month.

Household expense is Rs. 75,000 per month now.

Surplus remains Rs. 25,000 monthly, without touching your investments.

With spouse income, you will still have more cushion.

This shows your daily living cost will be covered.

So, retirement is possible without stress about regular bills. But we must look deeper into future costs.

» Inflation Effect on Expenses

Current monthly expense Rs. 75,000 will not remain same.

In 10 years, expenses may double to Rs. 1.5 lakh monthly.

Pension of Rs. 1 lakh may not be enough then.

Mutual funds corpus will help fill this gap.

So, investment growth must continue even after retirement.

» Mutual Fund Portfolio Role

Rs. 2 crore in mutual funds is your main wealth engine.

If invested in equity-oriented funds, it will grow faster than inflation.

This growth will help you beat rising living costs.

Withdraw only as required, and allow balance to compound.

You must avoid index funds. Index funds only copy market returns.

They cannot protect against falls or give above-average returns.

Actively managed mutual funds guided by a Certified Financial Planner are better.

Direct funds may look cheaper but lack guidance. Regular funds through a CFP bring professional review and discipline.

This ensures your corpus will continue to work even after retirement.

» EPF and Plot Utilisation

EPF of Rs. 30 lakh gives safety and stability.

This can be kept for children’s higher education or medical security.

The plot valued at Rs. 20 lakh is not very liquid.

Land is not ideal for retirement income. Selling or holding long term is not efficient.

Better option is to liquidate in future and reinvest into mutual funds for growth.

» Children’s Education and Marriage Needs

One child is 14, so college fees will start in 4 years.

Another is 9, so expenses will start in about 9 years.

Higher education costs are increasing sharply.

Allocate separate education fund from your mutual funds corpus.

Marriage needs may come after 10–15 years.

Planning today will avoid sudden pressure later.

Do not disturb retirement corpus for these goals. Create earmarked investments.

» Spouse’s Income Role

Spouse earns Rs. 90,000 monthly.

This income can be used to manage children’s education and household expenses.

Pension can focus mainly on retirement needs.

This reduces dependence on your mutual fund corpus in early years.

Her continued work also gives health cover and extra stability.

» Health and Insurance Needs

After retirement, medical expenses may rise.

Keep health insurance for whole family.

Top-up cover is useful as medical inflation is very high.

Keep life insurance until children become independent.

Insurance protects your retirement plan from being disturbed.

» Debt-Free Position

You have not mentioned any home loan or personal loans.

If there is no debt, it is a very positive point.

Debt-free retirement is always more peaceful and secure.

» Withdrawal Strategy From Mutual Funds

Pension covers daily needs now.

Mutual fund corpus of Rs. 2 crore should not be withdrawn aggressively.

Withdraw only for children’s education or when expenses rise beyond pension.

For early years, allow maximum corpus to stay invested.

Equity-oriented allocation should be higher for growth.

Some allocation in debt funds or deposits can provide stability.

Remember the tax rules:

Equity fund gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh yearly are taxed at 12.5% LTCG.

Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.

Debt funds are taxed as per your slab.

Plan withdrawals smartly to reduce tax leakage.

» Psychological Aspect of Early Retirement

Many people face boredom or loss of purpose after retiring early.

Build hobbies, part-time consulting, or teaching opportunities.

Use your skills to stay active and engaged.

Financially, you are safe. But mentally, you need purpose.

» Safety Buffer for Future

Keep emergency fund of 12 months expenses separately.

This ensures pension delay or other issues do not disturb lifestyle.

Also keep Rs. 20–30 lakh as a medical buffer separately.

This avoids forced selling of mutual funds during emergencies.

» Lifestyle Planning

Expenses may rise as you spend more time at home.

Travel, entertainment, and family outings can increase costs.

Keep a lifestyle budget to avoid overspending from corpus.

Always match lifestyle within income, not the other way.

» Role of Children’s Age in Retirement Plan

You still have responsibilities as both kids are dependent.

Higher education costs will come before your corpus gets time to grow.

Ensure children’s goals are fully planned before you stop working.

Retirement decision should consider these 2 major goals.

» Alternative Option: Semi-Retirement

Instead of full retirement at 47, consider semi-retirement.

You can reduce workload or shift to less stressful job.

This keeps income alive and reduces pressure on investments.

Even part-time work for 5–7 years adds huge stability.

» Final Insights
Your financial base is strong with Rs. 2 crore mutual funds, Rs. 30 lakh EPF, Rs. 1 lakh pension, and spouse income. Retirement at 47 is possible, but you must carefully plan children’s education and future inflation. Pension covers today’s lifestyle, but expenses will rise. Mutual funds must continue growing with right allocation, not left idle. Avoid index funds and direct funds, instead use actively managed funds with Certified Financial Planner guidance. Keep health insurance, emergency fund, and medical buffer ready. Consider semi-retirement to add more safety. With discipline, your decision for early retirement is achievable and secure.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

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Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1839 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

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |646 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 07, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Dear Madam, I was a bright student during my school days and my plan was to become a civil servant but that did not succeed even after several attempts. With the advise of my brother i went ahead and pursued Masters at a normal university in Sydney. I did internship and continued staying with my job though it wasn't my field of study. After that what came as a shock was my brother's divorce. We don't know what is the actual issue till date but I tried a lot to fix the gap by talking to his ex-wife but they were very orthodox. I couldn't see my brother suffer because he had planned and arranged so much for her. I had no choice then so i try to harm his ex-wife by spoiling her reputation thinking she will come back for him. In the mean time i got married to a girl who was her relative too thinking my wife can help us in some case but she turned out to be completely in the opposite direction. She was probably convinced by my brother's ex-wife or their relatives that she is not coming back. Even then my brother tried to go meet his ex-wife through many channels. My wife did not help him at all in any aspect. Finally the divorced happened and everything ended. Now we have sought several proposals but nothing seem to be a good fit for him. Most of the girls whom we met on matrimonial sites are fake profiles with something hidden or falsely represented. I would say my brother escaped all this. But we are worried about his life now as he is already in his 40's and he seem to be struggling for a good job and finance. He is very picky probably but doesn't talk much to all of us. Sometimes he even says the game is over so no point looking at a second marriage. My wife and he fought once when he visited us because she didn't want him in our house and she created a fight putting me in the front. After that he stopped coming to our house or see us or talk to us. Things even gets worse sometimes when her brother comes and visits us and stays at our house which my parents don't like. My parents argue that your brother was not allowed to stay for few months then how come her brother is allowed for several months. What kind of partiality is that? I feel i could not do anything for him despite the fact that he is my only brother. He is good at heart and looked after me when i went abroad financially and even came to meet me few times. I tried to send him money, gifts but he is still the same. He communicates with our parents but not with me nor my wife anymore. Kindly give us a good advise.
Ans: Your brother’s distance is not a rejection of you. It is his way of protecting himself. He went through a difficult marriage, an emotional collapse, and then watched people around him — including you — react out of desperation to fix things for him. Even though your intentions came from love, he may have associated those actions with more pain and pressure. When a person has been wounded, silence feels safer than conversation. His withdrawal simply means he is tired, not that he dislikes you.
You also need to understand that the guilt you are carrying is heavier than it needs to be. You tried to intervene in his marriage because you wanted to protect him, not because you wanted to cause harm. Looking back now, with more maturity and clarity, you see the mistakes, but at that time, you were acting out of fear and love. This is why it’s important to forgive yourself instead of punishing yourself over and over.
The conflict between your wife and your brother only added another layer of stress, because it forced you into choosing sides. Your wife reacted emotionally, your brother pulled away, your parents questioned the imbalance — and in the middle of all this, you lost your sense of peace. But their disagreements are not failures on your part. They are the natural result of people operating from insecurity, fear, and past hurt.
What needs to happen now is a shift in your role. You cannot continue trying to solve everything for everyone. You cannot carry your brother’s marriage, your wife’s fears, and your parents’ judgments all at once. It’s time to step out of the role of rescuer and step into the role of a grounded, calm brother who offers presence, not solutions.
Rebuilding your bond with your brother will not come from pushing proposals, sending gifts, or trying to fix his life. It will come from offering him emotional safety. A simple message, expressing that you are sorry for any hurt, that you care for him, and that you are available whenever he feels ready, will speak louder than any effort to arrange his future. Once you send such a message, the healthiest thing you can do is give him space. Sometimes relationships repair themselves in silence, when pressure is removed.
And for yourself, healing begins when you stop believing that every problem in the family rests on your shoulders. You have given more than enough over the years. Now you deserve emotional rest. You deserve peace. You deserve to feel like a brother, not a crisis manager.
Your brother may take time, but distance does not erase love. When he feels safe, he will come closer again. Your responsibility is not to force that moment, but to make sure you are emotionally steady and ready when it happens.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 11, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear sir This is regarding my mother's financials. She is 71 years old and she earns a pension of 31k p.m. She has FD's worth 60 lacs and earns interest income of Rs.25k. I wish to know if we can buy mutual funds worth 10 lacs by diverting funds from FD for better returns. She owns a house and does not have house rent commitment . She is currently investing 10k p.m in SIP . Now the lump sum investment of 5 lacs each is intended to be done in HDFC balanced advantage fund Direct Growth and ICICI Prudential balanced advantage fund . Please advise
Ans: You are caring about your mother’s future.
This shows deep responsibility.
Her financial base also looks strong today.
Her pension gives steady cash.
Her FD interest gives extra safety.
Her home is secure.
Her SIP shows healthy discipline.

» Her Present Financial Position
Your mother is 71.
Her age makes safety a key priority.
But some growth is also needed.

She gets Rs 31000 pension each month.
This covers most basic needs.
Her FD interest adds Rs 25000 per month.
So her total monthly inflow is near Rs 56000.
This is healthy at her age.

She owns her house.
She has no rent stress.
This gives great relief.

She has FD worth Rs 60 lakh.
This gives safe income.
She also runs a SIP of Rs 10000 per month.
This is a good step.
It keeps her connected to long-term growth.

Her total structure looks balanced.
She has safety.
She has income.
She has some growth exposure.
She has low liabilities.

This is a very stable base for her age.

» Understanding Her Risk Level
At age 71, risk must be low.
But risk cannot be zero.
Zero risk pushes money into FD only.
FD return stays low.
FD return sometimes falls after tax.
FD return often stays below inflation.

This reduces future buying power.
Inflation in India stays high.
Medical costs rise fast.
Home repair costs rise.
Daily needs rise.
So some growth is needed.

Balanced exposure gives stability.
Balanced allocation protects both sides.
She should not go too high on equity.
She should not avoid equity fully.
A middle path works best at this age.

Your idea of shifting Rs 10 lakh for growth is fine.
But the type of fund must be chosen well.
The plan must also follow her age.
Her risk must be respected.

» Impact of Growth Options at Her Age
Growth funds move with markets.
Markets move up and down.
These swings can disturb seniors.
But some controlled equity helps fight inflation.

Funds with mix of equity and debt help.
They adjust risk.
They protect capital better.
They manage volatility better.
They offer smoother experience.
They suit senior citizens more.

So a mild growth approach is healthy.
This gives better long-term value.
This gives inflation protection.
This reduces long-term stress.

Still, the fund choice must be careful.
And the plan style must be guided.

» Concerns With Direct Plans
You mentioned direct funds.
Direct funds seem cheap.
But cheap is not always better.

Direct funds give no guidance.
Direct funds give no review support.
Direct funds give no risk matching.
Direct funds need constant study.
Direct funds need skill.
Direct funds need time.

Many investors think direct plans save money.
But small savings can cause big losses.
Wrong choices reduce returns.
Wrong timing reduces gains.
Wrong exit increases tax.

Regular plans bring professional support through MFDs with CFP credentials.
They offer yearly reviews.
They track risk closely.
They guide corrections.
They support crisis moments.
They help in asset mix.
They help keep emotions stable.

This support is very helpful for seniors.
Your mother will not need to study markets.
She will not need to track cycles.
She will not need to worry about volatility.
She can stay calm.

So regular plans may suit her better.
The small extra fee is actually buying professional hand-holding.
This hand-holding protects wealth.
This reduces mistakes.
This brings long-term peace.

» Her Liquidity Need
At age 71, liquidity matters.
She must access money fast during emergencies.
Medical needs can arise.
Health cost can be sudden.
She must be ready.

FD gives quick access.
This is useful.
So FD should not be reduced too much.

Shifting Rs 10 lakh is acceptable.
But shifting more may reduce comfort.
She must always feel safe.
Her emotional comfort is important.

So Rs 10 lakh is the right level.
It keeps major FD corpus safe.
It keeps growth exposure controlled.

This balance supports her peace.

» Her Current SIP
She puts Rs 10000 per month in SIP.
This is positive.
This brings slow steady growth.
This builds long-term value.

She should continue this SIP.
She may reduce it later based on comfort.
But she should not stop it now.
This SIP adds inflation protection.
This SIP builds a small buffer.

A continuous SIP helps smooth markets.
It builds confidence.

» Income Stability for Her
Her pension covers needs.
Her FD interest adds comfort.
Her SIP invests for future needs.
Her home saves rent.

So she has stable income.
Her life standard is maintained.
Her risk level can stay low.

Her monthly cash flow is positive.
Her needs are covered.
So she need not worry about returns too much.
But a little growth is still healthy.

» Should She Shift Rs 10 Lakh From FD?
Yes, she can shift Rs 10 lakh.
This does not hurt her safety.
This does not shake her cash flow.
This supports inflation protection.

But the fund must be right.
The plan must match her age.
The risk must stay low.
The allocation must stay controlled.

A balanced strategy is better.
Smooth returns suit seniors.
Moderate risk suits her age.

Still, the fund must be in regular plan.
Direct plan may cause long-term risk.
Direct plans place the heavy load on the investor.
At her age, this stress is avoidable.
Regular plans give smoother support.

» Why Not Use the Specific Schemes Mentioned
The schemes you named are direct plans.
Direct plans give no support.
Direct plans leave all decisions to you.
Direct plans leave all risk checks on you.

Also, each fund has its own style.
Each adjusts differently.
You must check suitability.
You must review them yearly.
This needs time and skill.

For her age, this is not ideal.
A simple, guided, regular plan works better.

Also, some funds change risk levels fast.
Some increase equity without warning.
Some change style in market shifts.
This can disturb seniors.
She must stay with stable funds.
She must stay with guided models.

This protects her long-term peace.

» The Role of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds suit Indian markets.
India grows fast.
Sectors rise and fall fast.
Many companies grow fast.
Many also fall fast.

Active managers study these shifts.
They adjust quicker.
They avoid weak sectors.
They add strong businesses.
They protect downside.
They enhance upside.

Index funds cannot do this.
Index funds copy indices.
Indices carry weak companies also.
Indices carry overpriced stocks.
Indices do not avoid bad phases.
Indices cannot change weight fast.
So index funds give no defensive shield.

Actively managed funds work harder.
They try to reduce shocks.
They try to smooth volatility.
This suits seniors more.

So an active regular plan through an MFD with CFP credentials is better for her.

» Tax Angle on Mutual Fund Redemption
Capital gain rules matter.
For equity funds, long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh have 12.5% tax.
Short-term gains have 20% tax.
Debt fund gains follow your tax slab.

Senior investors must plan exits well.
They must avoid excess tax shock.
They must stagger withdrawals.
They must redeem only when needed.

A guided regular plan helps avoid tax mistakes.
Direct funds offer no such guidance.

» Her Emergency Preparedness
At her age, emergency readiness is key.
She must have quick cash.
She must have easy access.
Her FD base helps this.

She has Rs 60 lakh in FD.
This is strong.
She should keep most of this.
Maybe an emergency bucket of Rs 5 to 10 lakh must stay fully liquid.

This brings peace.
This prevents panic.
This avoids forced redemption.

» Family Support System
You are involved.
This protects her retirement.
You can offer emotional help.
You can offer decision help.
This support makes her financial life safe.

Family support keeps stress low for seniors.
She will feel secure.
She will stay calm during market changes.

» How Her Future Years Can Stay Stable
She needs comfort.
She needs safety.
She needs liquidity.
She needs some growth.
She needs health cover.
She needs emotional peace.

A control-based plan helps:
– Keep most money in FD
– Keep some in balanced mutual funds
– Keep SIP running
– Keep money easily accessible
– Keep risk low
– Keep asset mix simple
– Keep tax impact low
– Keep reviews yearly

This keeps her retirement smooth.

» Built-In Protection for Senior Life
Her plan must also protect future risk.
Medical cost may rise.
Home repairs may occur.
Occasional family support may be needed.

So she must:
– Keep cash bucket
– Keep healthy insurance
– Keep documents updated
– Keep financial papers organised
– Keep digital and physical files safe

This brings long-term safety.

» Withdrawal Strategy
She may not need withdrawals now.
Her income covers expenses.
But she may need money in later years.

She should follow a layered method:

Short-term needs from FD

Medium needs from balanced funds

Long-term needs from SIP corpus

Emergency money from liquid FD

This spreads risk.
This avoids sudden losses.
This protects her capital.

» Assessing the Rs 10 Lakh Transfer
This transfer is fine.
But it must not go to direct plans.
It must go to regular plans.
Guided plans reduce mistakes.
Guided plans suit seniors.

Split into two funds is fine.
But avoid too much complexity.
Simple structure reduces stress.
Easy structure improves clarity.

So two regular plans through an MFD with CFP credentials is ideal.

» Final Insights
Your mother has a strong base.
Her pension is stable.
Her FD pool is healthy.
Her home reduces cost.
Her SIP adds growth.

Adding Rs 10 lakh into balanced mutual funds is a good idea.
But shift to regular plans with expert guidance.
Direct plans are not suitable for seniors.
They bring more risk.
They bring more complexity.
They bring more stress.

Regular plans bring reviews.
Regular plans match risk.
Regular plans reduce mistakes.
Regular plans suit her age.

Her future looks stable with this mix.
Her life can stay comfortable.
She can enjoy her senior years with peace.

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 Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi, I am 53 years with a wife and two children. My total savings comprising of MF, Shares, PDF,EPF, NPS & FD are approx. 3Cr. Our current monthly outgoing including SIPs is approximately 100000. Will the above savings amount be sufficient to sustain for the next 20 years?
Ans: You have managed to build Rs 3 Cr by age 53.
This shows steady discipline.
Your savings mix also looks balanced.
Your family seems stable.
Your cost control also looks fair.
This gives a good base for the next stage of life.

» Your Current Position
Your savings stand near Rs 3 Cr.
Your monthly outflow is near Rs 100000.
This includes your SIP amount also.
Your family has four members.
You have two children.
Your wife is with you.
You have a mixed pool across MF, shares, PF, EPF, NPS, and FD.
This mix brings both growth and stability.
This gives you a good base.

Your age is 53.
You have around 7 to 12 working years left.
This period is crucial.
Your decisions now shape the next 20 years.
Your savings rate also matters.
Your cost control also shapes the future.

Today’s numbers show you have a good foundation.
But sustainability depends on many factors.
We must study inflation, spending pattern, growth pattern, tax, risk level, health cost, and cash flow flexibility.

» Understanding the Cash Flow Stress
Your family spends around Rs 100000 today.
This includes SIP.
After retirement, SIP will stop.
But living costs will continue.
Costs increase each year.
Inflation can eat cash fast.
So we must ensure growth in wealth.
Slow growth can stress the corpus.
Fast growth brings more shocks.
So balance is key.

Rs 3 Cr looks large today.
But 20 years is long.
Inflation reduces buying power.
Medical costs also rise.
Family needs also shift.

Your money can last 20 years.
But it needs correct planning.
Blind use of the corpus will not help.
Proper flow matters.
Proper asset selection also matters.
You need steady growth.
You need low shocks.
You need stable income.

» Role of Growth Assets
Many families fear growth assets.
But growth assets are needed today.
Inflation is strong in India.
If money stays in FD only, it suffers.
FD return stays low.
Post-tax return stays even lower.
FD return does not beat inflation.
FD cannot support long-term plans.

Mutual funds bring better growth.
Actively managed funds bring better research.
They allow expert judgement.
They can handle market swings better.
They study sectors and businesses.
They adjust the portfolio.
They aim for more consistent returns.
This helps protect wealth.

Some people choose direct plans.
But direct plans need full time study.
They need skill.
They need discipline.
Most investors do not have the time.
Wrong choices can reduce returns.
Direct plans give no guidance.
Direct plans can reduce long-term peace.

Regular plans through an MFD with CFP credential give better support.
They help with reviews.
They help with corrections.
They help with rebalancing.
They help manage behaviour.
They save time and stress.

You already have MF exposure.
This is good.
You should keep this path.
Active fund management will help long-term stability.

» Role of Safety Assets
You have EPF, PPF, NPS, FD.
These give safety.
They give peace.
But they give lower return.
Too much safety reduces future income.
A mix of both is needed.

Safety assets give steady income.
But they do not grow fast.
They cannot support 20 years alone.
So balance must be kept.

» Assessing the Sustainability for 20 Years
Rs 3 Cr can support 20 years.
But it depends on:

Your retirement age

Your spending pattern

Your ability to reduce costs

Your asset mix

Your growth rate

Your inflation level

Your health cost

Your emergency needs

If your core expenses stay in control, your corpus can last.
If you invest well, your corpus can support you.
If you avoid panic, your wealth will grow.
Your children may also get settled.
Your own needs may reduce.

The key is proper planning.
Without planning, the corpus can shrink fast.
With planning, it will last long.

» Inflation Impact
Inflation is silent.
It eats buying power.
Costs double every few years.
Food rises.
Health rises.
Daily life rises.
School fees rise.
Lifestyle rises.

If your money grows slower than inflation, you lose power.
So growth assets must be part of the plan.
They help beat inflation.
They help protect lifestyle.
They help support long-term needs.

This is why active mutual funds stay useful.
They bring research-driven decisions.
They help fight inflation better.
They stay flexible.
They move with the economy.

» Evaluating Your Retirement Readiness
You stand near retirement zone.
You still have some working life.
You still earn.
You still save.
Your income supports your SIP.
This is good.
This is the right stage to improve planning.

Your SIP amount builds future cash.
Your insurance must be proper.
Your emergency fund must be strong.
Your health cover must be strong.

You have PF and NPS.
These give safety.
They bring stability.
They give steady return.
But they do not give high return.
Growth will come from MF and equity.

Your retirement readiness depends on:

Cash flow plan

Growth plan

Insurance plan

Medical cover plan

Long-term income plan

Withdrawal plan

When all parts align, you will stay secure.

» Withdrawal Strategy for the Future
When you retire, cash flow must stay smooth.
You cannot depend on FD alone.
You cannot depend only on EPF.
You cannot depend on one asset class.
You need a mix.

Your withdrawal should come from:

Some from safety assets

Some from growth assets

Some from periodic rebalancing

This helps you avoid panic selling.
This helps you maintain stability.
This protects your lifestyle.

Tax must also be managed.
Tax on equity MF has new rules.
Long-term gain above Rs 1.25 lakh has 12.5% tax.
Short-term gain has 20% tax.
Debt MF gain follows your tax slab.
These rules shape your withdrawal plan.
You must plan redemptions wisely.

» Health and Family Factors
Health cost is rising in India.
Hospital bills rise fast.
Health shocks drain savings.
So good health cover is needed.
Family needs must be studied.

Your children may still need some support.
Their education or marriage may need funds.
These costs must be planned early.
You should not dip into retirement money.
Clear planning avoids stress.

Your wife also needs future support.
Joint planning is better.
Shared decisions help discipline.

» Need for a Structured Review
A structured review every year is needed.
Your income may change.
Your savings may rise.
Your spending may shift.
Your goals may change.
Your risk level may shift.
Your family needs may change.

Review helps you stay on track.
Review helps catch issues early.
Review helps you correct mistakes.
Review brings peace.

A Certified Financial Planner can guide reviews.
This support builds confidence.
This reduces stress.
This brings clarity.

» How to Strengthen Your Position
You already stand strong.
But you can still improve.
Here are some steps to make your 20 years safer.

Keep your growth-safety mix balanced

Increase your SIP when income allows

Avoid direct plans if guidance needed

Use regular plans for proper support

Avoid real estate due to low returns

Increase your emergency fund

Improve your health cover

Avoid ULIP and mixed plans if you ever have them

Review your EPF and NPS allocation

Track your spending carefully

Plan for yearly rebalancing

Keep enough liquidity for short needs

Keep boredom decisions away

Stay invested even in tough times

Trust long-term compounding

Each step adds stability.
Your family will feel safe.

» Building a Strong Future Income Flow
Income must not come from one basket.
Income should come from:

MF SWP

PF interest

FD ladder

NPS withdrawal in a slow way

Equity redemption in a planned way

This spreads risk.
This spreads tax.
This spreads stress.

Staggered withdrawal helps peace.
Your money grows even while you spend.
Your corpus stays healthy.

» Maintaining Low Stress in Retirement
Retirement should be peaceful.
Money stress should be low.
Good planning ensures this.

Keep clear communication with your family.
Keep your files organised.
Keep your goals updated.
Keep calm during market swings.

Your corpus can support you.
Your strategy will shape your peace.

» Final Insights
Your Rs 3 Cr corpus is a strong base.
Your age gives you time to improve more.
Your monthly spending is manageable.
Your asset mix supports your future.

But planning is needed.
Cash flow must be aligned with inflation.
Growth assets must stay active.
Safety assets must be balanced.
Withdrawal must be planned wisely.
Health cost must be covered.
Risk must be contained.

With proper planning, your wealth can support the next 20 years.
Your family can live with comfort.
Your lifestyle can stay stable.
Your future can stay safe.

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

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

...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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