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T S Khurana

T S Khurana   |536 Answers  |Ask -

Tax Expert - Answered on Jan 23, 2025

A certified management accountant since 1993, T S Khurana is a fellow member of The Institute of Cost Accountants of India. His areas of expertise are income tax, specifically litigation cases, and GST.

Since the last 21 years, he has also been providing expert advice on financial matters, including investments and diversification of funds, and wealth building in the long term to his clients.
He believes that investment in real estate is the safest way for better returns and wealth generation over a period of time.

A former chairman of the Chandigarh Chapter of Institute of Cost Accountants of India, T S Khurana has also served as member of its technical committee.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Jan 03, 2025Hindi
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I am physically disabled. Kya mujhe new tax regime Mai pwd ka 75000 Jo 80 U k tehat Jo rule hai vo apply hoga agar haan to iska koi proof milega yaa mai khan se yai document collect kru

Ans: No. you won't be getting any benefit u/s 80-U, if you adopt the new tax regime.
Most welcome for any further clarifications. Thanks.
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  |10871 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Mene 2.5 lakh hdfc balance advantage fund me nivesh Kiya he to agle 10 salo me kitna return mil sakta he aur tax kitna lagega
Ans: Investment Analysis
Fund Type

HDFC Balance Advantage Fund is a hybrid fund.
It invests in both equity and debt.
Its risk is lower than pure equity funds.

Possible Returns

Predicting 10-year returns is tricky.
Such funds might give 10-12% yearly returns.
This depends on market conditions.

Tax Considerations

Long-term capital gains are taxed at 12.5%.
This applies only to gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh.
Gains up to Rs. 1.25 lakh per year are tax-free.

Risk Assessment

Hybrid funds have moderate risk.
They're less risky than pure equity funds.
But they may give lower returns than equity funds.

Investment Horizon

Your 10-year plan is good for this fund.
Long-term investing helps manage market ups and downs.
It gives your money time to grow.

Regular vs Direct Plan

Check if you've invested in regular or direct plan.
Regular plans give expert guidance but cost more.
Direct plans are cheaper but need more self-management.

Monitoring Your Investment

Check your fund's performance every 6 months.
Compare it with similar funds.
Consider changes if it underperforms for long periods.

Rebalancing

As you get closer to your goal, reduce risk.
Think about moving some money to safer options.
This protects your gains as you near your goal.

Finally

Your investment choice is good for moderate growth.
Keep an eye on its performance and make changes if needed.
Consider talking to a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice.

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

..Read more

Yogendra

Yogendra Arora  |37 Answers  |Ask -

Tax Expert - Answered on Mar 27, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10871 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Sir mere pass loans hai 25 lakh ka aur agar m usko kisi s udhar maang k complete kr du to kya mujhe tax padega m tax bhi pay krti hu agar padega to kitna plss jankari dijiye
Ans: Appreciate your honest query. You are thinking practically. That shows financial awareness. Managing loan closure from borrowed funds is a big decision. Let us assess the tax angle from all sides.

? Loan Repayment with Borrowed Funds – No Direct Tax

Loan repayment is not considered income.

So, if you take money from someone and repay your own loan, there is no tax.

Income Tax Act does not tax money used for loan repayment.

No tax arises from repaying a personal, car, home, or business loan.

But certain other angles must be considered carefully.

? Borrowed Funds Must Be Properly Documented

If you borrow from a friend or relative, keep it documented.

Use a written loan agreement even for personal loans.

Mention amount, date, and repayment terms clearly.

If it is interest-free, mention that in writing too.

Without documentation, tax officers may treat it as income.

? Income Tax Rules on Gifts and Personal Loans

If someone gives you money without repayment clause, it becomes a gift.

Gifts from non-relatives above Rs 50,000 in a year are taxable.

But if it is a repayable loan, then no tax.

So never accept a large amount without a written loan agreement.

Avoid cash transactions above Rs 20,000. Prefer bank transfer.

? Maintain Clarity During ITR Filing

While filing income tax returns, disclose loan borrowed if asked.

Keep bank proof of both incoming and outgoing funds.

Any big cash deposits will raise red flags.

If you borrow and repay via account transfer, it is clean.

But large unexplained transactions attract tax scrutiny.

? If It’s a Business Loan, Consider GST/Accounting Rules

If your loan is linked to business, record it properly in books.

Mention interest if applicable.

Ensure it’s reflected in your profit and loss or balance sheet.

For salaried individuals, this may not apply.

? If You Use Borrowed Funds to Prepay Home Loan

If you repay a home loan from borrowed money, there is no tax.

But home loan interest benefit under Section 24(b) continues only for genuine interest.

You may lose the tax benefit if the original loan closes early.

Weigh tax deduction vs. mental relief carefully.

? Future Loan Eligibility May Get Impacted

If you repay loan using borrowed money, it lowers actual debt.

But credit report shows closure without income growth.

Lenders may question such repayment patterns in future loans.

So keep documentation strong and purpose clear.

? Don’t Take Loan from Unknown or Unofficial Lenders

Borrowing from informal or local moneylenders brings legal risks.

Their loans are not tax-linked but may have harsh repayment rules.

Also, they don’t issue receipts or agreements.

This creates audit and compliance issues in future.

? Large Personal Loans Must Follow These Guidelines

Prefer bank-to-bank transfer.

Mention purpose clearly in memo line.

Take PAN details of the person giving loan.

Keep a signed declaration that it is a loan, not a gift.

If interest is involved, keep it documented.

? Repaying Your Own Loan is Always Good

Loan burden creates mental and financial stress.

If you find a way to clear it, do it responsibly.

But tax rules must not be ignored in the process.

Loan-free status improves credit score and future cash flow.

? Avoid Loan Settlement with Banks if Possible

Loan settlement affects credit history.

Bank may write off part of loan, which becomes income.

That written-off part is taxable.

Always try to repay full loan, not settle it with bank’s compromise.

? If You are Paying Tax Already

The loan closure with borrowed money does not change your taxable income.

Your salary or business income will still be taxed normally.

There is no extra tax just because you took help to repay loans.

But the source of borrowed amount should be genuine.

? Future Tax Filing Needs Clear Trail

Income tax department watches large transactions.

So, keep written proof of loan borrowed and loan repaid.

Always repay through bank transfer, not cash.

Any big unexplained entry may invite notice.

Keep lender's PAN handy if needed in future queries.

? Personal Loan from Relative is Acceptable

Loan from spouse, parents, siblings is fully legal.

No tax if repaid properly.

But again, documentation is the key.

An affidavit or notarised paper can be used.

? Loan Forgiveness by Lender Has Tax Implication

If your lender later says you don’t need to repay, that amount becomes income.

In that case, you need to show it in your ITR.

Tax will be applicable as per your slab.

So always return the amount to avoid income classification.

? Loan Repayment from Business Account

If you use business account to repay personal loan, avoid mixing.

This may raise GST or audit concerns.

Keep personal and business banking separate.

Tax audit triggers get activated with unclear transactions.

? Don’t Use Undisclosed Sources

If money borrowed is not traceable to a person or bank, it becomes risky.

Tax officer may treat it as black income.

Avoid cash hand loans. Prefer digital methods.

Keep paper trail clean and updated.

? Financially, Loan Closure is a Positive Move

Interest saved improves long-term wealth.

Stress reduction is an invisible benefit.

Use this chance to start fresh with budgeting.

Build an emergency fund next.

Then start investing step-by-step.

? If the Rs 25 Lakh Loan is on Home

Check if you're claiming housing loan tax benefit.

After closure, tax benefit under Section 24 and 80C will stop.

But if stress is high, loan closure is still better.

Consult a CFP-backed MFD before stopping long-term tax-saving options.

? Tax on Loan Transaction Only Comes in Special Cases

Gift from non-relative above Rs 50,000 is taxed.

Loan waiver is taxed.

Undocumented cash loan attracts penalty.

Otherwise, regular loan repayment has no tax.

? Debt-Free Living Opens New Possibilities

You can start SIPs and insurance planning.

Health and term plans become affordable.

You can start investing toward goals.

Use this reset to improve cash discipline.

A CFP can help you structure this change wisely.

? Finally

Repaying your loan with borrowed funds has no tax impact if documented well.

Avoid cash, maintain proofs, and take written loan confirmation.

After loan is cleared, begin fresh with savings and investment planning.

Take guidance from a CFP-backed MFD for right product choices.

Financial freedom begins when loan burden ends. Start building wealth peacefully.

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10871 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
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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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