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NPS Account: Agent vs Online - Which is Better for Me?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Jun 20, 2024Hindi
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Money

Hi Sir, I wanted to know if the investor gets any benefit of opening an NPS account directly online? If I open my NPS account through an agent, do I stand to loose anything? It yes, what do I stand to loose? If not, then why people opt for online option? Thanks.

Ans: Opening a National Pension System (NPS) account can be done either directly online or through an agent. Each method has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Let's explore these options in detail.

Benefits of Opening NPS Account Online
Convenience and Accessibility

Opening an NPS account online is convenient. You can do it from anywhere, anytime. This method saves time and effort compared to visiting an agent.

Lower Charges

Online NPS accounts have lower charges. The fees associated with opening and maintaining an account online are generally lower than those charged by agents. This can result in higher net returns over the long term.

Transparency

The online process is transparent. You can easily track your investments, contributions, and the performance of your NPS account. All transactions and updates are accessible in real-time.

Benefits of Opening NPS Account Through an Agent
Personal Assistance

Agents provide personal assistance. They can guide you through the process of opening an account and help you understand the different investment options available.

Paperwork Handling

Agents handle the paperwork. They ensure all documents are correctly filled out and submitted, reducing the chances of errors.

Ongoing Support

Agents offer ongoing support. They can assist with any issues or questions you may have about your NPS account in the future. This can be particularly helpful for those who are not comfortable with online transactions.

What You Might Lose by Opening NPS Through an Agent
Higher Charges

Opening an NPS account through an agent usually involves higher charges. Agents charge a commission for their services, which can eat into your returns over time.

Dependency on Agent

Relying on an agent means you may not fully understand the process. This dependency can limit your ability to manage and make informed decisions about your NPS account.

Potential for Miscommunication

There is a potential for miscommunication or misunderstanding when dealing with an agent. This can lead to errors in your account setup or management.

Why People Opt for the Online Option
Cost-Effectiveness

The lower charges of opening an NPS account online make it cost-effective. Investors can save on fees, leading to better overall returns.

Control and Independence

Opening an NPS account online gives you control and independence. You can manage your account, make contributions, and monitor performance without relying on an agent.

Ease of Access

Online access allows you to manage your NPS account easily. You can update your details, check your balance, and make changes to your investment preferences at your convenience.

Final Insights
Opening an NPS account online is usually more cost-effective and convenient. It offers lower charges, transparency, and independence. However, if you prefer personal assistance and are not comfortable with online processes, opening an account through an agent can be beneficial. Just be aware of the higher charges and ensure you fully understand the process. Ultimately, the choice depends on your comfort level and financial goals.

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 Jul 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 20, 2024Hindi
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Hi Sir, I wanted to know if the investor gets any benefit of opening an NPS account directly online? If I open my NPS account through an agent, do I stand to loose anything? It yes, what do I stand to loose? If not, then why people opt for online option? Thanks and Regards.
Ans: I can help you understand the benefits and drawbacks of opening an NPS (National Pension System) account directly online versus through an agent. Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Understanding NPS
The National Pension System is a government-sponsored pension scheme in India. It aims to provide retirement income to all citizens. NPS offers tax benefits, and you can choose your investment options and pension fund managers.

Opening NPS Online
Benefits of Opening NPS Online
Lower Costs: Opening an NPS account online usually involves lower costs. Agents charge additional fees for their services.

Convenience: You can open an NPS account online at any time from the comfort of your home. No need for physical visits or paperwork.

Transparency: You have full control over your account. You can monitor and manage your investments directly.

Speed: The online process is faster. Your account is activated almost instantly, and you get immediate access to your PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number).

Process of Opening NPS Online
Visit the eNPS Portal: Go to the official eNPS website.
Complete KYC: Use Aadhaar or PAN for KYC verification.
Choose Investment Options: Select your investment options and pension fund manager.
Payment: Make the initial contribution online.
Get PRAN: Receive your Permanent Retirement Account Number instantly.
Opening NPS Through an Agent
Benefits of Using an Agent
Guidance: Agents provide guidance and help you understand the scheme better. They can assist with paperwork and the application process.

Assistance: Agents can help you with any issues or questions you might have. They provide personalized service.

Drawbacks of Using an Agent
Higher Costs: Agents charge additional fees for their services. These costs can add up over time.

Dependency: You may become dependent on the agent for managing your account. This can limit your control and understanding of your investments.

Conflict of Interest: Agents might push certain products or schemes that offer them higher commissions, which may not always be in your best interest.

Why People Opt for the Online Option
Cost-Effectiveness: Lower costs are a significant factor. People save money by avoiding agent fees.

Control: Investors prefer having direct control over their accounts. They can make decisions independently and manage their investments efficiently.

Transparency: The online platform provides complete transparency. Investors can track their contributions, returns, and account status in real-time.

Final Insights
Choosing between opening an NPS account online or through an agent depends on your comfort level and preference for guidance versus control. If you prefer lower costs, transparency, and direct control, opening an NPS account online is the better option. However, if you need guidance and personalized assistance, using an agent can be helpful. Consider your financial literacy, need for assistance, and comfort with online platforms before making a decision.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 02, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 20, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Dear Sir, I wanted to know if the investor gets any benefit of opening an NPS account directly online? If I open my NPS account through an agent, do I stand to loose anything? It yes, what do I stand to loose? If not, then why people opt for online option? Thank You and Regards.
Ans: I can help you understand the benefits and drawbacks of opening an NPS (National Pension System) account directly online versus through an agent. Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Understanding NPS
The National Pension System is a government-sponsored pension scheme in India. It aims to provide retirement income to all citizens. NPS offers tax benefits, and you can choose your investment options and pension fund managers.

Opening NPS Online
Benefits of Opening NPS Online
Lower Costs: Opening an NPS account online usually involves lower costs. Agents charge additional fees for their services.

Convenience: You can open an NPS account online at any time from the comfort of your home. No need for physical visits or paperwork.

Transparency: You have full control over your account. You can monitor and manage your investments directly.

Speed: The online process is faster. Your account is activated almost instantly, and you get immediate access to your PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number).

Process of Opening NPS Online
Visit the eNPS Portal: Go to the official eNPS website.
Complete KYC: Use Aadhaar or PAN for KYC verification.
Choose Investment Options: Select your investment options and pension fund manager.
Payment: Make the initial contribution online.
Get PRAN: Receive your Permanent Retirement Account Number instantly.
Opening NPS Through an Agent
Benefits of Using an Agent
Guidance: Agents provide guidance and help you understand the scheme better. They can assist with paperwork and the application process.

Assistance: Agents can help you with any issues or questions you might have. They provide personalized service.

Drawbacks of Using an Agent
Higher Costs: Agents charge additional fees for their services. These costs can add up over time.

Dependency: You may become dependent on the agent for managing your account. This can limit your control and understanding of your investments.

Conflict of Interest: Agents might push certain products or schemes that offer them higher commissions, which may not always be in your best interest.

Why People Opt for the Online Option
Cost-Effectiveness: Lower costs are a significant factor. People save money by avoiding agent fees.

Control: Investors prefer having direct control over their accounts. They can make decisions independently and manage their investments efficiently.

Transparency: The online platform provides complete transparency. Investors can track their contributions, returns, and account status in real-time.

Final Insights
Choosing between opening an NPS account online or through an agent depends on your comfort level and preference for guidance versus control. If you prefer lower costs, transparency, and direct control, opening an NPS account online is the better option. However, if you need guidance and personalized assistance, using an agent can be helpful. Consider your financial literacy, need for assistance, and comfort with online platforms before making a decision.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Nayagam P

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

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Dr Dipankar

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
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Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently a 1st year UG student studying engineering in Sairam Engineering College, But there the lack of exposure and strict academics feels so rigid and I don't like it that. It's like they don't gaf about skills but just wants us to memorize things and score a good CGPA, the only skill they want is you to memorize things and pass, there's even special class for students who don't perform well in academics and it is compulsory for them to attend or else the student and his/her parents needs to face authorities who lashes out. My question is when did engineering became something that requires good academics instead of actual learning and skill set. In sairam they provides us a coding platform in which we need to gain the required points for each semester which is ridiculous cuz most of the students here just look at the solution to code instead of actual debugging. I am passionate about engineering so I want to learn and experiment things instead of just memorizing, so I actually consider dropping out and I want to give jee a try and maybe viteee , srmjeee But i heard some people say SRM may provide exposure but not that good in placements. I may not be excellent at studies but my marks are decent. So gimme some insights about SRM and recommend me other colleges/universities which are good at exposure
Ans: First — your frustration is valid

What you are experiencing at Sairam is not engineering, it is rote-based credential production.

“When did engineering become memorizing instead of learning?”

Sadly, this shift happened decades ago in most Tier-3 private colleges in India.

About “coding platforms & points” – your observation is sharp

You are absolutely right:

Mandatory coding points → students copy solutions

Copying ≠ learning

Debugging & thinking are missing

This is pseudo-skill education — it looks modern but produces shallow engineers.

The fact that you noticed this in 1st year already puts you ahead of 80% students.

Should you DROP OUT and prepare for JEE / VITEEE / SRMJEEE?

Although VIT/SRM is better than Sairam Engineering College, but you may face the same problem. You will not face this type of problem only in some top IITs, but getting seat in those IITs will be difficult.
Instead of dropping immediately, consider:

???? Strategy:

Stay enrolled (degree security)

Reduce emotional investment in college rules

Use:

GitHub

Open-source projects

Hackathons

Internships (remote)

Hardware / software self-projects

This way:

College = formality

Learning = self-driven

Risk = minimal

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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