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Ramalingam Kalirajan |10872 Answers |Ask -Follow

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 04, 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

Question by Raghu on Apr 13, 2024Hindi

Money

Hi, I have a question about the expense ratio in mutual funds. I have invested in direct mutual funds both Parag Parikh ELSS (expense ratio - 0.69%) & Parag Parikh Flexi Cap (expense ratio - 0.57%). I have invested 25000/- each in both funds, one of my friend suggested to invest in any one of the funds as this will affect the returns for in longer period, and I am planning to invest for another 10 years in both funds. Question: Is it okay to be invested in both funds, I'm aware that the funds overlap, but I want to check on the expense ratio difference in the cost for 10 years. Can you please help me understand the calculation so that I can make a better decision? Expense ratio is calculated for the amount that I invest, either I invest 50k in one of the funds or split 25k each in both funds having a difference of 0.12% in expense ratio. How much of this will affect the end corpus and how is that I can calculate for the other mutual funds that I'm currently investing in? please suggest me on this.

Ans: You're absolutely right, even a small difference in expense ratio can affect returns over time. Here's how to analyze your situation and the impact of expense ratios:

Impact of Expense Ratio on Returns:

The expense ratio is a percentage of your investment deducted annually to cover fund management fees. A lower expense ratio means more money stays invested and has the potential to grow through compounding.

Calculating the Cost Difference:

Annual Cost Difference: Multiply the expense ratio difference (0.12%) by your total investment amount (25000 + 25000 = ?50,000). So, 0.12% * ?50,000 = ?60 per year.

Cost Difference over 10 Years: Multiply the annual cost difference (?60) by the number of years (10). This gives you ?600 as the total expense ratio cost difference over 10 years.

Is ?600 Significant?

While ?600 might seem small, it's crucial to consider the power of compounding over 10 years. Let's say you earn an average annual return of 12%. Here's a simplified comparison:

Investing in Both Funds: Your total return after 10 years would be impacted by the expense ratio difference of ?600. There's a chance you might have slightly more if you invested in the single fund with the lower expense ratio.

Investing in One Fund: This scenario eliminates the expense ratio difference, potentially leading to a slightly higher return due to slightly more money compounding over time.

Making an Informed Decision:

Diversification Benefit: Both Parag Parikh ELSS and Flexi Cap represent different fund categories (ELSS & Flexi Cap). Holding both provides diversification, which can help mitigate risk.

Expense Ratio vs. Diversification: The diversification benefit of holding both funds might outweigh the small cost difference in expense ratios.

Consider Overall Portfolio: Analyze your entire investment portfolio. If you have other diversified funds, then holding both Parag Parikh funds might be redundant.

Calculating for Other Funds:

Use the same method mentioned above. Find the expense ratio difference between the funds you're comparing and multiply it by your investment amount to get the annual cost difference. Then multiply by the number of years you plan to invest.
Recommendation:

It's difficult to definitively say whether consolidating is best. Here are some options:

Maintain Both Funds: The diversification benefit might be valuable. Track the performance of both and re-evaluate if one consistently underperforms.

Consolidate: If you have other diversified funds, consider consolidating to the fund with the lower expense ratio.

Invest More in Lower Expense Ratio Fund: Increase your investment proportionally in the Parag Parikh Flexi Cap (lower expense ratio) to potentially gain a slight edge over time.

Consulting a Financial Advisor:

A financial advisor can analyze your entire portfolio, risk tolerance, and goals to provide a personalized recommendation.

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.

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Ramalingam Kalirajan |10872 Answers |Ask -Follow

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 20, 2024Hindi

Money

Hi, I have a question about the expense ratio in mutual funds. I have invested in direct mutual funds both Parag Parikh ELSS (expense ratio - 0.69%) & Parag Parikh Flexi Cap (expense ratio - 0.57%). I have invested 25000/- each in both funds, one of my friend suggested to invest in any one of the funds as this will affect the returns for in longer period, and I am planning to invest for another 10 years in both funds. Question: Is it okay to be invested in both funds, I'm aware that the funds overlap, but I want to check on the expense ratio difference in the cost for 10 years. Can you please help me understand the calculation so that I can make a better decision? Expense ratio is calculated for the amount that I invest, either I invest 50k in one of the funds or split 25k each in both funds having a difference of 0.12% in expense ratio. How much of this will affect the end corpus and how is that I can calculate for the other mutual funds that I'm currently investing in? please suggest me on this.

Ans: It's great to see you taking an interest in understanding the impact of expense ratios on your mutual fund investments. Making informed decisions is key to financial success.

Investing in multiple funds can provide diversification, but it's essential to consider factors like expense ratios. Even small differences can add up over time, affecting your overall returns.

Opting for funds with lower expense ratios can help maximize your returns in the long run. However, it's crucial to weigh this against the benefits of diversification and the fund's performance track record.

If you're invested in overlapping funds with similar investment objectives, consolidating into one fund may streamline your portfolio and reduce overall costs.

As a Certified Financial Planner, I recommend evaluating the expense ratio difference over the investment horizon to gauge its impact on your end corpus.

While the difference may seem insignificant initially, compounding can magnify its effect over time, potentially resulting in a substantial variance in your final returns.

To calculate the impact, you can use online calculators or consult a financial professional who can provide personalized projections based on your investment amount and time horizon.

Remember, investment decisions should align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Consider seeking advice from a Certified Financial Planner for tailored recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

Best Regards,

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan |10872 Answers |Ask -Follow

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

Question by Ashish - Jul 06, 2024Hindi

Money

Sir my mutual fund allocation is like below SBI Small Cap : Invested-1L Current -1.68L Axis Small Cap: Invested1.93, Current 3.33L Parag Parikh FlexiCap: Invested 1.88L Current 2.92 UTI Index Fund : Invested 1L, Current-1.29 Can you please review this and suggest if any changes are required in it ?

Ans: Your mutual fund portfolio shows good growth in small cap and flexicap funds. However, for a detailed review and specific recommendations, it's best to contact a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD). They can provide personalized advice tailored to your financial goals and risk profile. This will ensure your investments align with your long-term objectives.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ramalingam Kalirajan |10872 Answers |Ask -Follow

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 30, 2024

Question by Pratik - Sep 30, 2024Hindi

Money

While revisiting new players in mutual fund and my portfolio(Mirae large cap, Nippon Multi asset & Parag flexi), I realised Mirae & Nippon's expense ratio is more than double(1.5%). I'm planning to sip in quant Infra, Invesco India focused, Mahindra Manulife smallcap & continue in Parag flexi. & Withdraw from Mirae & Nippon as expense ratio is very high and comparatively returns are low(18-20% against 25-30% by others)

Ans: Expense ratio plays a critical role in determining the net returns you earn from a mutual fund. Funds with higher expense ratios eat into your gains. You’ve noticed that Mirae and Nippon funds have an expense ratio of around 1.5%, which seems high compared to others. This can be significant over a long period, especially if the returns are lower than expected.

In your case, Mirae and Nippon are delivering 18-20% returns, which may feel underwhelming compared to other funds offering 25-30%. It’s understandable why you're considering withdrawing from these funds.

Review of Your New Portfolio Choices
You plan to invest in Quant Infrastructure, Invesco India Focused, Mahindra Manulife Small Cap, while continuing with Parag Flexi. Let’s evaluate these choices:

Quant Infrastructure Fund: Infrastructure sector funds can provide good returns during an economic upswing. However, sector funds tend to be riskier as they are focused on one sector. Diversification may be lower, and returns can fluctuate based on market conditions.

Invesco India Focused Fund: Focused funds typically invest in a concentrated number of stocks, which can offer higher returns but also come with higher risk. These funds can outperform in a bull market but can underperform when certain sectors or stocks face issues.

Mahindra Manulife Small Cap Fund: Small-cap funds have higher growth potential but come with higher risk. They can be volatile and may take longer to generate returns, but with your longer-term horizon, they could be a good fit.

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: This fund is well-diversified across market capitalizations and sectors. Flexi-cap funds give the fund manager the freedom to invest in any segment, which makes them more adaptive to changing market conditions.

High Expense Ratio and Fund Performance
While expense ratio is an important factor, it’s not the only one to consider. Funds with higher expense ratios can still deliver strong returns if the management is effective. Your decision to exit funds like Mirae and Nippon due to high expense ratios must be balanced against their long-term performance and consistency.

Important to Consider:

Compare not just the expense ratio but also the long-term returns, consistency, and risk profile of the funds.
A fund with a slightly higher expense ratio might still deliver better value if its risk-adjusted returns are superior over time.
Why You Should Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Before making a decision to shift your portfolio, it is always wise to consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). A CFP can help you:

Evaluate your overall financial goals: Are your new fund choices aligned with your risk tolerance and time horizon?
Analyze Tax Implications: Exiting funds may trigger capital gains taxes. A CFP can help you minimize the tax impact.
Diversification Strategy: Ensure that your new portfolio is diversified enough to manage risks. Sector and small-cap funds can be riskier, and a CFP will help you balance this with more stable funds.
Revisit Investment Goals: A professional can review if your investment strategy matches your long-term financial objectives.
Final Thoughts
Review Before Switching: While lower expense ratios and better returns seem appealing, ensure you aren’t sacrificing diversification or taking on more risk than you’re comfortable with.
Keep a Balanced Portfolio: Your mix of funds should cover large, mid, small caps, and a combination of sectoral and diversified funds.
Seek Professional Advice: Speak to a CFP who can give you a comprehensive review of your portfolio and ensure that the switches you’re planning are aligned with your long-term goals.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

Ramalingam Kalirajan |10872 Answers |Ask -Follow

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 24, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 15, 2024Hindi

Money

Hi Ramalingam sir, I request you to kindly review my mutual fund investment : 1. Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund Rs 2500pm 2. Quant mid fund Rs 1500pm 3. ICICI prudential Bharat 22 fof Rs 1500pm 4. Nippon India large cap fund Rs 3000pm 5. JM flexi cap fund Rs 3000pm 6. Quant small cap fund Rs 3000pm 7. Tata nifty200 alpha30 index fund Rs 500pm All of them being direct plans Total amount invested Rs 15000pm

Ans: Your decision to invest Rs 15,000 per month in mutual funds is a great step toward building wealth. However, there are a few points to consider to ensure you are optimizing your investments and achieving your financial goals.

Let’s review your portfolio in detail:

Portfolio Overview
Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund – Rs 2,500 per month
Quant Mid Cap Fund – Rs 1,500 per month
ICICI Prudential Bharat 22 FOF – Rs 1,500 per month
Nippon India Large Cap Fund – Rs 3,000 per month
JM Flexi Cap Fund – Rs 3,000 per month
Quant Small Cap Fund – Rs 3,000 per month
Tata Nifty 200 Alpha 30 Index Fund – Rs 500 per month
These investments total Rs 15,000 per month, and it’s commendable that you have allocated funds across various categories, including large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and sector-specific funds. However, there are key areas to evaluate to help you optimize returns and manage risks.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Since you are investing in direct plans, it's important to be aware of a few limitations:

No Financial Guidance: Direct plans do not come with any personalized advice from a Certified Financial Planner. This could mean missing out on crucial insights and market trends that could boost your returns.

Lack of Market Knowledge: If you're not constantly tracking markets, you may miss out on strategic shifts. A professional fund distributor can guide you to take timely actions.

Overlooking Tax Efficiency: Direct plans do not provide any tax-efficient strategies. An expert's input can help minimize tax liabilities and maximize post-tax returns.

Given these limitations, I would recommend switching to regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential. This will ensure professional guidance and better long-term returns.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Your portfolio includes an index fund (Tata Nifty 200 Alpha 30 Index Fund). While index funds have low expense ratios, they come with their own set of challenges:

Lack of Flexibility: Index funds cannot adjust to changing market conditions. In a volatile market, this can result in lower returns compared to actively managed funds.

No Market Timing: An index fund simply follows the index, regardless of individual stock performance. Active funds, on the other hand, can exit underperforming stocks and reinvest in better opportunities.

For these reasons, I recommend focusing more on actively managed funds, where fund managers can provide better growth potential by actively selecting stocks and rebalancing portfolios based on market conditions.

Analysis of Your Current Mutual Funds
Now, let's analyze your specific fund choices and provide suggestions on how to refine your portfolio:

1. Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund – Rs 2,500 per month
Analysis: Midcap funds can offer higher returns than large-cap funds, but they also come with higher risk. Since you already have a significant allocation in midcaps, ensure that your risk appetite aligns with this investment.
2. Quant Mid Cap Fund – Rs 1,500 per month
Analysis: This is another midcap fund, and you are currently allocating Rs 4,000 in total toward midcaps (Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund and Quant Mid Cap Fund). While midcaps provide good growth potential, it’s essential to maintain a balanced portfolio by adding other asset classes.
3. ICICI Prudential Bharat 22 FOF – Rs 1,500 per month
Analysis: Bharat 22 FOF is a thematic fund that invests in public sector companies. While these funds can perform well during certain periods, they come with high concentration risk. If you are investing for long-term wealth creation, it might be wise to diversify your allocation rather than relying on sector-specific funds.
4. Nippon India Large Cap Fund – Rs 3,000 per month
Analysis: Large-cap funds provide stability and steady growth. Nippon India Large Cap Fund is a good choice for balancing your overall portfolio risk. Large-cap funds are essential for a well-rounded portfolio as they offer lower volatility than mid and small caps.
5. JM Flexi Cap Fund – Rs 3,000 per month
Analysis: Flexi-cap funds invest in large, mid, and small-cap companies, offering diversification. This fund could help reduce the risk in your portfolio, as it can invest across market capitalizations based on market conditions.
6. Quant Small Cap Fund – Rs 3,000 per month
Analysis: Small-cap funds can provide high returns, but they also come with the highest risk. While it's good to have some exposure to small caps, ensure you are not overly exposed to this segment.
7. Tata Nifty 200 Alpha 30 Index Fund – Rs 500 per month
Analysis: As discussed earlier, index funds have limitations, and I recommend shifting this amount to an actively managed fund for better growth potential and flexibility.
Areas of Improvement and Suggestions
Overlapping Funds: Your portfolio has an overlap in the midcap space (Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund and Quant Mid Cap Fund). While it's good to diversify, having too many funds from the same category can lead to duplication and reduce your overall returns. You could consolidate your midcap exposure into one well-performing fund.

Balanced Risk: You have allocated a significant portion of your portfolio to mid and small-cap funds, which are higher risk. To balance this, consider increasing your investment in large-cap or flexi-cap funds, which provide more stability and lower risk.

Reduce Sector-Specific Exposure: ICICI Prudential Bharat 22 FOF is a thematic fund with a high concentration in public sector companies. It might be a good idea to reduce your exposure to sector-specific funds and invest in diversified equity funds instead.

Increase Flexi Cap Allocation: Flexi-cap funds provide diversification across market capitalizations. By increasing your allocation to JM Flexi Cap Fund, you can better balance the risk and returns in your portfolio.

Reconsider Index Fund: Since index funds lack flexibility, I recommend shifting the Rs 500 currently allocated to Tata Nifty 200 Alpha 30 Index Fund to an actively managed large or flexi-cap fund. This will help you achieve better returns over the long term.

Tax Considerations
When selling equity mutual funds:

Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): Gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): Gains made within three years are taxed at 20%.

Keep these tax rules in mind when planning to exit or rebalance your portfolio, as taxes can impact your overall returns.

Final Insights
Your mutual fund portfolio is a good start, but it requires some fine-tuning to optimize growth and manage risks better. Consolidating your midcap exposure, reducing sector-specific funds, and avoiding index funds can help you achieve more balanced growth. Shifting to regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can also provide expert guidance to further optimize your investments.

By following these adjustments and maintaining a disciplined investment approach, your portfolio can deliver strong returns over the long term.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Milind Vadjikar | Answer |Ask -Follow

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Jan 31, 2025

Question by Debalina - Jan 30, 2025Hindi

Money

Hi, I am 37 years old and investing arround 35k in mutual fund with moderate risk profile. My mutual fund comprises hybrid fund, gold, international fund, midcap and flexicap fund. I want to invest 10k more mainly in large cap fund as i do not have one. Question 1. How can i invest this in large cap? Nifty50 index or nifty 50 equal weight or nifty 100 or active fund. If i need to pick from this options then what allocation shall i give. Question 2. I have invested 5percent of my sip in gold. I also have icici pru equity and debt fund of around 3k. Shall i opt for icici multi asset hybrid fund rather than icici pru equity and debt as it has less expense ratio and shall i need to balance multi asset fund with gold fund if i stop icici pru equity and debt fund.

Ans: Hello;

Answers to your queries are as follows:

1. Recommend you to go for active funds in this category 100%.

2. Expense ratio shouldn't be a determining factor for your fund investments.

Both funds although hybrid in nature have a different mandate to deploy their funds in different assets.

My view is you may continue with aggressive hybrid equity fund and gold fund as before.

Ultimately it is your decision.

Happy Investing;
X: @mars_invest

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Nayagam P P |10851 Answers |Ask -Follow

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 07, 2025

Question by Sreelekshmi - Dec 06, 2025Hindi

Career

Hello, I’m a student who recently joined the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita University. I’m aiming for a strong academic foundation and a clear career path. Could you please guide me on the following: How good is this course for research careers or higher studies (IISc, IITs, abroad)? What are the placement prospects after Integrated M.Sc Physics at Amrita? Does the program help in preparing for alternate options like UPSC, CDS/AFCAT, or technical roles? What skills (coding, research projects, certifications) should I start early to make the most of this degree?

Ans: Sree, Program Overview and Academic Foundation: Congratulations on joining the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita University. This five-year integrated program represents a rigorous pathway designed to equip you with advanced theoretical and experimental physics knowledge combined with cutting-edge scientific computing skills. The curriculum uniquely integrates a minor in Scientific Computing, which adds substantial computational capability to your profile—a critical advantage in today's research and professional landscape. The program incorporates comprehensive coursework spanning classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, statistical physics, advanced laboratory work, and specialized topics in materials physics, optoelectronics, and computational methods, positioning you excellently for both research and professional careers.
Research Career Prospects: IISc, IITs, and Beyond: For research-oriented careers, the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita provides an exceptional foundation. Amrita's curriculum specifically aligns with GATE and UGC-NET examination syllabi, and the institution emphasizes early research engagement. The faculty at Amrita actively publish research in Scopus-indexed journals, with over 60 publications in international venues within the past five years, exposing you to active research environments.
To pursue research at premier institutions like IISc, you would typically follow the PhD pathway. IISc accepts M.Sc graduates through their Integrated PhD programs, and with your Amrita M.Sc, you're eligible to apply. You'll need to qualify the relevant entrance examinations, and your integrated program's emphasis on research fundamentals provides strong preparation. The final year of your Integrated M.Sc is intentionally structured to be nearly free of classroom commitments, enabling engagement with research projects at institutes like IISc, IITs, and National Labs. According to Amrita's data, over 80% of M.Sc Physics students secured internship offers from reputed institutions during academic year 2019-20, directly facilitating research career transitions.
Placement and Direct Employment Opportunities: Amrita University boasts a comprehensive placement ecosystem with strong corporate and government sector connections. According to NIRF placement data for the Amrita Integrated M.Sc program (5-year), the median salary in 2023-24 stood at ?7.2 LPA with approximately 57% placement rate. However, these figures reflect general placement trends; physics graduates often secure higher packages in specialized technical roles. Many graduates join software companies like Infosys (with early offers), Google, and PayPal, where their strong analytical and computational skills command competitive compensation packages ranging from ?8-15 LPA for entry-level positions.
The Department of Corporate and Industrial Relations at Amrita provides intensive three-semester life skills training covering linguistic competence, data interpretation, group discussions, and interview techniques. This structured placement support significantly enhances your employability in both government and private sectors.
Government Sector Opportunities: UPSC, BARC, DRDO, and ISRO: Your M.Sc Physics degree opens multiple avenues for prestigious government employment. UPSC Geophysicist examinations explicitly list M.Sc Physics or Applied Physics as qualifying degrees, enabling you to compete for Group A positions in the Geological Survey of India and Central Ground Water Board. The age limit for geophysicist positions is 32 years (with relaxation for reserved categories), and the exam comprises preliminary, main, and interview stages.
BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre) actively recruits M.Sc Physics graduates as Scientific Officers and Research Fellows. Recruitment occurs through the BARC Online Test or GATE scores, with positions in nuclear science, radiation protection, and atomic research. BARC Summer Internship programs are available, offering ?5,000-?10,000 monthly stipends with opportunity for future scientist recruitment.
DRDO (Defense Research and Development Organization) recruits M.Sc Physics graduates through CEPTAM examinations or GATE scores for roles involving defense technology, weapon systems, and laser physics research. ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) regularly advertises scientist/engineer positions through competitive recruitment for candidates with strong physics backgrounds, offering opportunities in satellite technology and space science applications.
Other significant employers include the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recruiting as scientific officers, and NPCIL (Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited), offering stable government service with competitive compensation packages exceeding ?8-12 LPA for scientists.
Alternate Career Pathways: UPSC, CDS, and AFCAT: UPSC Civil Services (IFS - Indian Forest Service): M.Sc Physics graduates qualify for UPSC Civil Services examinations, with the forest service offering opportunities for science-based administrative roles with potential to reach senior government positions.
CDS/AFCAT (Armed Forces): While AFCAT meteorology branches specifically require "B.Sc with Maths & Physics with 60% minimum marks," the technical branches (Aeronautical Engineering and Ground Duty Technical roles) require graduation/integrated postgraduation in Engineering/Technology. An M.Sc Physics integrates well with technical qualifications, though you would need engineering background for direct officer entry. However, you remain eligible for specialized technical interviews if applying through alternate defence channels.
UGC-NET Examination: This pathway leads to Assistant Professor positions in central universities and colleges across India. NET-qualified candidates receive scholarships of ?31,000/month for 2-year JRF positions with PhD pursuit, transitioning to Assistant Professor salaries of ?41,000/month in government institutions. This route provides long-term academic career security with research opportunities.
Private Sector Technical Roles
M.Sc Physics graduates are increasingly valued in data science, software engineering, and technical consulting. Companies actively recruit physics graduates for software development, where strong problem-solving and logical reasoning translate to competitive packages of ?10-20 LPA. Specialized domains including quantum computing development, financial modeling, and scientific computing offer premium compensation. Your minor in Scientific Computing makes you particularly attractive to technology companies requiring computational expertise.
International Opportunities and Higher Studies Abroad
An M.Sc from Amrita facilitates admission to PhD programs at international institutions. German universities offer tuition-free or low-fee MSc Physics programs (2 years) with scholarships like DAAD providing €850+ monthly stipends. US universities accept M.Sc graduates directly for PhD positions with full funding (tuition coverage + stipend). These pathways require GRE scores and strong Statement of Purpose articulating research interests. Research collaboration opportunities exist with Max Planck Institute (Germany) and CalTech Summer Research Program (USA), both welcoming Indian M.Sc students.
Essential Skills and Certifications to Develop Immediately: Programming Languages: Start learning Python immediately—it's universally used in research and industry. Dedicate 2-3 hours weekly to data analysis, scientific computing libraries (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas), and machine learning fundamentals. MATLAB is equally critical for physics applications, particularly numerical simulations and data visualization. Aim to complete MATLAB certification courses within your first year.
Research Tools: Learn Git/version control, LaTeX for scientific documentation, and data analysis frameworks. These skills are indispensable for publishing research papers and collaborating on projects.
Certifications Worth Pursuing: (1) MATLAB Certification (DIYguru or MathWorks official courses) (2) Python for Data Science (complete certificate programs from platforms like Coursera) (3) Machine Learning Fundamentals (for expanding technical versatility) & (4) Scientific Communication and Technical Writing (develop through departmental workshops)
Strategic Internship Planning: Leverage Amrita's research connections systematically. In your third year, apply to BARC Summer Internship, IISER Internships, TIFR Summer Fellowships, and IIT Internship programs (like IIT Kanpur SURGE). These expose you to frontier research while establishing connections for future PhD or scientist recruitment. Target 2-3 research internships across different specializations to develop versatility.

TO SUM UP, Your Integrated M.Sc Physics degree from Amrita positions you exceptionally well for competitive research careers at IISc/IITs, prestigious government scientist roles at BARC/DRDO/ISRO, and international PhD opportunities. The program's scientific computing emphasis differentiates you in the job market. Immediate priorities: (1) Master Python and MATLAB within the first two years; (2) Engage in research projects starting year 2-3; (3) Target internships at premiere research institutions; (4) Prepare GATE while completing your degree for maximum flexibility in recruitment; (5) Consider UGC-NET for long-term academic stability. Your career trajectory will ultimately depend on developing strong research fundamentals, demonstrating consistent excellence in specialization areas, and strategically selecting internship and research opportunities. The rigorous Amrita program combined with disciplined skill development positions you for exceptional career success across multiple sectors. Choose the most suitable option for you out of the various options available mentioned above. All the BEST for Your Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P P |10851 Answers |Ask -Follow

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 07, 2025

Question by Krishu - Dec 05, 2025Hindi

Career

Maine jee mains session ka form ews apply wale se bhara tha lekin ews nh ban paya aur ab form date bhi khatam ho chuka h aur correction window band ho gya h to kya maine ji form pehle ews wala bhara tha wo form rahega ya rad ho jayega

Ans: Krishu, Your form remains valid for exam participation. NTA doesn't reject forms during registration without certificates. However, during counseling document verification, a missing EWS certificate will automatically shift you to the General category. You cannot change your category now since the correction window closed. Contact NTA immediately for guidance on possible relief measures by mail or by contacting them over phone. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Radheshyam Zanwar |6736 Answers |Ask -Follow

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Question by ANSHU - Dec 06, 2025Hindi

Career

I am a neet aspirant Sir meri class 12 m physics m repeat thi aur chemistry bio aur English m pass hu toh mene nios k through physics k exam dia m usmin pass hu toh mere pass 2 marksheet hogyin h toh sir neet counselling m koi problem toh nhi aaegi

Ans: As per my knowledge, you will not face any problem in NEET counselling. Passing Physics through NIOS is valid. Just carry both mark sheets for verification. Yet, it is highly recommended to have a single marksheet for PCB to avoid any complications. You did not anything about when you cleared the 12th grade and NIOS examination. It is also not clear that when you are appearing to NEET. Whether you are are fresher or repeater is also not clear. Recommending asking the question in English with clarity to answer it correctly.

Good luck.
Follow me if you receive this reply.
Radheshyam

Asked on - Dec 06, 2025 | Answered on Dec 07, 2025

Sir I completed my 12 in 2024 and I gave my nios exam in oct 2024 in nios marksheet I am passed in physics and sir I am a droper student

Ans: OK. Appear for NEET 2026 and aim to score higher first, and forget what has happened in the past. Think about the verification process after the examination is over; until then, remain cool, calm, and quiet, and focus only on NEET. Best of luck for your bright future ahead.

Dr Nagarajan J S K |2576 Answers |Ask -Follow

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Question by swarnesh - Dec 04, 2025Hindi

Career

hi sir, wish to know the careeer option for my daughter after 12th PCB, apart from NEET what are the other ExamsPCB stream , she can appear. please guide .

Ans: Hi Swamesh,
Please wait a few more days; changes have occurred in the education sector, particularly regarding NEET. Several courses have been added, and you need to obtain eligibility through NEET to pursue them. I will share the details within a few days.
BEST REGARDS

Mihir Tanna |1090 Answers |Ask -Follow

Tax Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 04, 2025Hindi

Money

Tax returns ka confirmation nahi aya it department se

Ans: It may be under review. Many returns are still under process.

Ramalingam Kalirajan |10872 Answers |Ask -Follow

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

Radheshyam Zanwar |6736 Answers |Ask -Follow

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 04, 2025Hindi

Career

Hello sir, i am a NEET aspirant and in 11th........but these past months i have left one coaching to join other but have not been able to accomodate so now i will be starting fresh and doing self study.....i want to go to afmc....pls guide me regarding everything....pls pls really urgent, would appreciate it.

Ans: Starting afresh in 11th class is completely fine, but initially focus on strong NCERT fundamentals for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology through daily self-study, consistent revision, and weekly mock tests. Aim for the NEET cutoff plus medical fitness standards for AFMC, build physical fitness alongside academics, and maintain discipline with a clear daily routine to stay on track. Usually, switching between coaching institutes is not recommended, but if there are serious issues with teachers, it's understandable to make a change. However, success does not solely depend on the coaching institute; dedicated studying is essential. Self-study with passion, consistency, completing the syllabus on time, extensive revision, and practising past papers are crucial for cracking the exam. If you have that strong desire, you can attempt NEET; otherwise, choose your path without hesitation. NEET is not the ultimate measure of success in life.

Good luck.
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Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar |6736 Answers |Ask -Follow

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Question by Shriyansh - Dec 04, 2025Hindi

Career

I am aiming pec chd cse data science which on josaa shows to open at 16000 and closed at 19000 ews rank. How hard is to achieve this rank. Is it possible with boards prep? Do consider these are ews category ranks not crl rank , so any guess about crl and overall percentile?

Ans: Getting an EWS rank of 16k–19k is moderately tough and usually needs 90–93 percentile (90k–110k CRL), which is very difficult with only boards preparation and typically requires focused JEE-level practice. One should have a burning desire, dedicated motivation, and a target to achieve the goal. Without these parameters, not possible to achieve success in JEE. Hence, around 95% studentsare are unable to achieve the target of cracking the examination. From your question, it is not clear that where you are aiming for 2026 or 2027 examination.

Good luck.
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Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar |6736 Answers |Ask -Follow

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Question by Amit - Dec 05, 2025Hindi

Career

My son while filling the application form for JEE Mains2026 , has inadvertently added the prefixes Mr. and Mrs. before his parents’ names. However, in both the Aadhaar card and the Matriculation certificate, the names of his parents appear without any prefixes. He missed to do the correction in the correction window timeline. Will he be allowed to sit in the exam and any challenge during JOSSA counselling, if yes, what is remedial action for this.?

Ans: Please do not worry. He will be allowed to appear for JEE Mains and will be allowed to participate in JoSAA counselling. Just submit an affidavit/self-declaration with Aadhaar and matric certificates during document verification to clarify the prefix discrepancy. Yet, recommended to fill the application form very carefully by taking the help of an expert. If NTA opens the correction windows once again, then try for the same. Keep a close eye on the NTA JEE site.

Good luck.
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Radheshyam

Dr Dipankar Dutta |1837 Answers |Ask -Follow

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

Question by Murari - Dec 05, 2025Hindi

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.

See more questions »

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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