Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Moneywize

Moneywize   | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Mar 28, 2024

MoneyWize helps you make smart investment choices.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Mar 21, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

What is comprehensive auto insurance policy? What are its benefits? What are the inclusions and non-inclusions if I want to know before buying a comprehensive auto insurance policy?

Ans: A comprehensive auto insurance policy in India offers the most extensive coverage for your car and any third-parties involved in an accident. It's like a two-wheeler for your car's security, providing protection for both your vehicle and your wallet.

Benefits of a Comprehensive Policy:

1. Peace of mind: Covers a wide range of situations, so you'll be financially protected in case of many unforeseen events.

2. Own Damage Cover: Pays for repairs or replacement of your car if it's damaged in an accident, by fire, theft, natural calamities, riots, or even falls victim to vandalism.

3. Third-Party Liability Cover: Takes care of any legal or financial liabilities you incur if your car causes injury, disability or death to a third party, or damages their property.

4. Personal Accident Cover (Optional): Provides financial assistance to you or your family in case of injury or death due to a car accident (depending on the policy terms).

What to Consider Before Buying:

Inclusions:

a. Most accidents (collision, hit and run)

b. Theft (partial or complete)

c. Fire damage

d. Natural disasters (floods, earthquakes, etc.)

e. Riots, strikes, and other man-made calamities

g. Third-party property damage and bodily injury

h. Personal accident cover (if opted for)

Non-inclusions:

a. Damages due to wear and tear

b. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

c. Mechanical or electrical breakdown

d. Depreciation on parts replaced during repairs

e. Using the car for illegal purposes

Additional Tips:

1. Add-on Covers: Enhance your policy with optional extras like engine protection or zero depreciation cover for a more comprehensive safety net.

2. Compare Quotes: Get quotes from different insurance companies to find the best coverage and price for your needs.

Remember, a comprehensive policy offers superior protection compared to third-party only insurance, which is mandatory by law but only covers your liability towards third parties. For a secure ride on Indian roads, a comprehensive policy is the way to go.
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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Moneywize

Moneywize   | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Jan 11, 2024

Listen
Money
Sir, my question is regarding auto insurance. What is the difference between comprehensive cover and non comprehensive cover in auto insurance? Which insurance should I buy? Which insurance will take better care of my vehicle insurance needs?
Ans: To help you understand the difference between comprehensive and non-comprehensive (commonly known as third-party) auto insurance, and guide you which auto insurance might be more suitable for your needs, here are some points to consider.

Comprehensive Cover:

• Coverage: Comprehensive insurance provides coverage for a wide range of incidents, including damage to your own vehicle due to accidents, theft, natural disasters (like floods or earthquakes), fire, vandalism, and other non-collision events.

• Third-party Coverage: In addition to covering damages to your own vehicle, comprehensive insurance also includes third-party liability coverage. This means it provides protection against any damage or injury caused to third parties (other people or their property) by your vehicle.

Non-Comprehensive (Third-Party) Cover:

• Coverage: This type of insurance primarily covers damages and injuries caused by your vehicle to third parties. It does not cover damages to your own vehicle in the event of an accident or other non-collision incidents.

• Legal Requirement: In many places, having at least third-party insurance is a legal requirement. It ensures that if you cause harm to others or their property, there is coverage to compensate for those damages.

Choosing the Right Insurance:

• Comprehensive Cover: If you want more extensive protection for your own vehicle and want coverage for a broader range of events, comprehensive insurance is the better choice. It provides peace of mind knowing that you are covered not only for accidents but also for theft, natural disasters, and other unforeseen circumstances.

• Non-Comprehensive (Third-Party) Cover: If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option and are willing to bear the cost of repairing or replacing your own vehicle in case of an accident, third-party insurance might be suitable. However, it's important to note that this option doesn't provide coverage for damages to your own vehicle.

Ultimately, the choice between comprehensive and non-comprehensive insurance depends on your individual needs, budget, and the level of coverage you desire. If you can afford it, comprehensive coverage is generally recommended for more comprehensive protection. Always review the policy terms, conditions, and coverage limits before making a decision. Additionally, consider consulting with insurance professionals or agents to get personalised advice based on your specific situation.

..Read more

Moneywize

Moneywize   | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Jan 12, 2024

Listen
Money
Thank you for the reply. What is the ideal coverage amount for life and health insurance policies? And what are the exclusions in insurance policies that I should be aware of?
Ans: Determining the ideal coverage amount for health insurance depends on various factors, including your financial situation, lifestyle, and specific needs. Here are some general guidelines:

• Medical Costs: Consider the potential medical expenses you might incur, including hospitalisation, surgeries, and treatments. The coverage amount should be sufficient to cover these costs.

• Family Size: If you are purchasing a family health insurance plan, ensure that the coverage amount is adequate for all family members.

• Preventive Care: Look for policies that cover preventive care, vaccinations, and health check-ups.

• Network Hospitals: Consider the availability and quality of network hospitals covered by the insurance policy.

• Deductibles and Co-payments: Be aware of any deductibles and co-payments that may apply and assess how they impact your out-of-pocket expenses.

• Renewal Age: Opt for policies with a higher renewal age to ensure coverage into your senior years.

Exclusions:
Insurance policies typically have exclusions, which are specific situations or conditions not covered by the policy. While the exclusions can vary between insurers and policies, here are some common exclusions you must know:

• Pre-existing Conditions: Many health insurance policies have a waiting period for pre-existing conditions. Treatment for these conditions may not be covered during the waiting period.

• Specific Treatments: Some policies may exclude coverage for certain treatments or procedures, such as cosmetic surgery or alternative therapies.

• Hazardous Activities: Life insurance policies may exclude coverage for deaths resulting from hazardous activities, like extreme sports or certain occupations.

• Suicide Clause: Life insurance policies often have a suicide clause, typically excluding coverage for suicides within the first two years of the policy.

• Misrepresentation: If you provide inaccurate information during the application process, it could lead to policy cancellation or denial of claims.

• War or Acts of Terrorism: Some policies may exclude coverage for deaths or injuries resulting from war or acts of terrorism.

It's crucial to carefully read the policy documents, including the terms and conditions, to understand the specific exclusions that apply to your insurance coverage. If you have any doubts or concerns, consider consulting with an insurance professional or agent for clarification.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Dr Upneet

Dr Upneet Kaur  |44 Answers  |Ask -

Marriage counsellor - Answered on Jun 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 05, 2025
Relationship
Hello gurus.. I have a friend who has been married for 10 years and with 2 kids one 8 yr old daughter and a two year old son. His wife whom he loved and trusted so much had cheated on him with one of her friends for almost 3 years which he came to know about last year. Though he could not digest that and thought of divorcing her but thinking about his children's future he changed his mind and told her to end all communication with him in order to save this marriage .She too had agreed . He hadn't told about this to anyone except me including her parents whom he respected a lot and hence didn't want to hurt them ... But after 3 months he came to know that she was still in contact with her friend using another phone without his knowledge and her affair also had not stopped . This time he couldn't tolerate and told this to her parents and told them that he would be filing for divorce. Her parents literally begged with him not to do so and requested him to give one last chance as they would mend her this time . He told them that even after giving her a chance to mend herself she has cheated again and broken his trust and that he couldn't live with her without trust . So he had decided to move on but his wife and her mother threatened him that they will have no other choice but to commit suicide if he doesnt forgive his wife. He was also worried about his children's future without their mother .. Based on some elders and friends (including mine )advice he gave her one last chance but on condition that there should not be any communication with her affair partner in future and if he comes to know about them being in any kind of contact he would be filing for divorce . His wife and her parents agreed to this and he took her back though not wholeheartedly but due to circumstances. Though they lived under one roof they did not live a harmonious life and lived like strangers and there used to be quarrels very frequently between them . This sometimes had gone physical and on many occasions his wife had threatened him with suicide... And in March this year he came to know that she was in contact with her affair partner secretly using another phone. When confronted she told they were just talking and nothing else...Though there may not be any physical contact this time my friend is very upset and adamant that he wouldn't live with her and want a mutual divorce ...His wife is not agreeing for it and threatening that she would write his name and end her life if he goes for a contested divorce. My friend is too worried about the legal complications if such a thing happens . He is also concerned about his kids especially his daughters future if he goes for a contested divorce based on adultery , the impact it would have on his daughter s future ..He doesn't want to spoil his daughters future ..At the same time he says he cannot imagine living with his wife again after being cheated on twice... Kindly advice what should I advise him ...
Ans: Hello sir. I understand the situation. The prime thing in this is that your friend should go directly to police station and should file a report that if anything of this sort happens, including harm to his in laws or wife then he will not be responsible and that they are regularly threatening him. This will make your friend legally safe and then he can take a mutual divorce if he wants telling his wife and in laws that he has already filed a complaint.
This is the primary step. Once done you can message again.
Regards

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8913 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 13, 2025
Money
Hi Ramalingam, I'm 33 and married, expecting a baby due in couple of months. I have a homeloan of 60L with EMI of 55k and tenure of 18 year to go. I have started investing in MF recently. Index fund(nifty 50 and nifty defense): 3.9L Large: 1L Large and midcap: 4.6L Flexi:3.2L Multicap: 1L Midcap: 85k Small: 1.75L Tech sector: 50k Equity infra sector: 1.7L SBI psu: 1.4 EPF Balance: 8L Savings: 10L Please advise how should I allocate my SIP moving forward if I have saving of around 5L per month. I want to invest in MF for better returns instead of clearing off the homeloan which has a lower interest rate. I'm looking to have funds for retirement. Please advise.
Ans: You are 33, expecting a baby soon, and wisely planning both your loan and future funds. You already have strong savings and investments. This outlook gives us a great base to build a 360-degree plan for retirement, goal purposes, and balanced wealth growth. Let’s go step by step.

1. Financial Snapshot Summary
Age 33, married, expecting a baby

Home loan: Rs.?60?lakh, EMI Rs.?55k monthly, 18 years remaining

Monthly savings ability: about Rs.?5?lakh

Existing investments:

Index funds (Nifty 50 and Nifty Defence): Rs.?3.9?lakh

Large cap: Rs.?1?lakh

Large & mid cap: Rs.?4.6?lakh

Flexi cap: Rs.?3.2?lakh

Multi cap: Rs.?1?lakh

Mid cap: Rs.?85k

Small cap: Rs.?1.75?lakh

Tech sector: Rs.?50k

Infra sector: Rs.?1.7?lakh

PSU fund: Rs.?1.4?lakh

EPF balance: Rs.?8?lakh

Savings account: Rs.?10?lakh

You are already diversified across equity categories and hold good liquidity. Excellent discipline.

2. Understanding Your Priorities
Baby’s arrival and early family needs

Retirement corpus building

Managing home loan without rushing to pre-pay

Growing assets wisely rather than clearing low-interest debt

Your home loan interest is low compared to market returns possible via equity investments. Therefore, shifting focus to wealth creation is sensible.

3. Risk & Liquidity Assessment
Your savings of Rs.?10?lakh plus existing liquidity provide good emergency buffer

EPF of Rs.?8?lakh ensures retirement base

Continue to maintain liquidity of 6 months’ expense in safe instruments

Keep updating emergency cushion as family expands

This ensures you avoid disrupting your investment in case of unforeseen needs.

4. Why Not Clear Home Loan Early
Home loan interest is relatively low (~8–9%)

Equity returns over long term can outperform that

Paying loan early sacrifices the benefit of compounding growth

Instead of clearing, channel money into goal-based investments

Continue standard EMI payment to maintain discipline

You can review part-prepayment later if you receive a bonus or surplus income.

5. Reconsider Index Fund Exposure
You hold index funds tracking Nifty 50 and a sector index. But:

Index funds lack active intervention during downturns

No flexibility—mirror entire index performance

Sectoral index funds are highly volatile and cyclical

You already hold sector funds (Tech and Infra) separately

Actively managed funds offer better downside management

They can allocate, exit, and adjust as economic conditions change

Recommend gradually transitioning index allocations to active large-cap or balanced funds with guidance from CFP-led distributor.

6. Asset Allocation & SIP Repositioning
You aim to invest Rs.?5?lakh monthly and build a long-term wealth engine. Here's a refined strategy:

Equity Allocation (60–65%)

Large / Flexi Cap Active Equity: Rs.?1.25?lakh

Mid Cap Active Equity: Rs.?50,000

Small Cap Active Equity: Rs.?25,000

Multi / Hybrid Equity (Balanced Advantage): Rs.?50,000

ELSS Tax Saver: Rs.?25,000

Debt Allocation (25–30%)

Short-to-Intermediate Debt Funds: Rs.?50,000

Children’s Hybrid Fund (short horizon bucket): Rs.?25,000

Other

Allocation to overseas or thematic equity capped at 5–10% through active funds

This structure offers growth and risk balance while keeping liquidity.

7. Children’s Goal Fund Planning
Your baby arrives soon. Early-stage costs include delivery, essentials, childcare. For 1–2 year need:

Create a “Baby Care Fund” of Rs.?3–4?lakh

Use short-term debt or hybrid mutual funds

Systematically invest Rs.?50k monthly or use part of savings

This ensures funds ready around the time needs arise

Post that, start “Education & Future Security” goal fund via mid/large-cap SIPs.

8. Maintaining SIP Priorities
Your current investment portfolio includes various equity exposures. To make it cohesive:

Reassess index fund exposure and reduce gradually

Continue and increase active equity SIPs as outlined

Use CFP advice to choose 3–4 high-conviction active funds

Avoid direct plans—use CFP-backed distributor for discipline

Balanced funds help cushion during volatile periods

As you invest Rs.?5?lakh monthly, implement the above allocation gradually, not abruptly.

9. Why Avoid Direct and Index Funds
Direct Funds: No expert support, fund monitoring, exit guidance.
Index Funds: No flexibility, follow blind script, no crisis management.
Agile Active Funds via CFP: Strategic stock moves, timely shifts, tailored for your risk.

Your goals need proactive fund management, not auto-pilot passive tools.

10. Retirement Corpus Plan
You are 33, planning retirement maybe at age 60. You have about 27 years of horizon.

Using structured SIPs and portfolio growth, you can:

Build a strong corpus via equity

Maintain a stable allocation of 60–70% equity + 30–40% debt

Gradually tilt towards debt as you near retirement

Regularly review portfolio health fall under CFP supervision

Keep monitoring inflation-adjusted goal progress

This method ensures a secure retirement plan.

11. Insurance & Protection
You didn’t mention insurance. With a baby on the way:

Health insurance – at least Rs.?10–15?lakh family floater

Term life insurance – Minimum Rs.?1–2?crore to cover loan and dependents

Avoid ULIPs or endowment plans—go for pure term and health

Take these via CFP recommended provider and cover soon

Insurance protects your financial plan against sudden events.

12. Debt Management after EMI
Your EMI of Rs.?55k runs for 18 years.

After baby and higher expenses:

Continue EMI as is

Avoid prepayment unless you receive a sizable bonus

When EMI ends, recalculate funds available for SIPs and goals

Use that opportunity to increase SIP amounts further

Use part of EMI funds towards retirement or asset-building

This planned shift after EMI end creates space for accelerated growth.

13. Liquidity, Reserves, and Top-Ups
Your current savings and surge capacity of Rs.?5?lakh enable flexibility:

Continue keeping liquidity of 4–6 months’ expenses

Keep separate corner for baby fund and emergency

Use surplus income for goal-linked investments

Avoid unnecessary lifestyle inflation despite high income

Top-up SIPs when salary or bonus increases

Discipline in surplus use will compound your wealth efficiently.

14. Tax Planning & Gains
Use ELSS SIPs for 80C benefits

Equity fund LTCG taxed 12.5% above Rs.?1.25?lakh per annum

Debt / hybrids taxed as per income slab

Use balanced and debt funds to optimise taxable interest

File ITR, claim deductions, and plan redemptions to control tax incidence

This keeps tax bite minimal and saves more for your goals.

15. Monitoring & Rebalancing
Review portfolio performance and fund objectives every six months

Rebalance asset mix when any category drifts >5%

Stop or shift under-performing funds after review

Avoid knee-jerk reactions—stay thought-through

CFP guidance ensures structured portfolio management

Consistent monitoring protects you from drift and decay.

16. Asset Creation vs Real Estate
You didn’t mention owning other real estate. But goal stated flat purchase may fit as goals.

However, central financial focus is investing in financial assets:

Equity, hybrid, and debt instruments remain central

Property can be considered separately once you hold large financial corpus

Keeping financial assets liquid allows better flexibility

Avoid overloading liquidity for real estate purchases

Enhancing financial assets comes first—it empowers freedom and choice.

17. Lifestyle & Support
Your surplus income supports lifestyle well.

Avoid big-ticket impulsive spending

Use value-based spending for travel, family events

Invest in skills or certification to grow income

Create additional income streams (freelance, side projects)

This increases your saving ability further

Lifestyle and income both support your wealth journey.

18. Succession & Estate Planning
With a baby on the way, important to secure your legacy:

Ensure you have proper nomination for all investments

Create a will or simplified estate plan

Appoint guardians, trustees as needed

This ensures smooth wealth transfer and peace of mind

These administrative steps protect your family and planning.

19. Roadmap Execution Timeline
Prioritize and allocate baby fund in short-term debt

Shift index and sectoral funds gradually to active funds

Structure SIP allocation for retirement and hybrid safety

Purchase insurance soon for protection

Continue EMI; use part payment only if surplus

Post-EMI, increase SIP allocation with added liquidity

Review portfolio semi-annually for performance and rebalance

Plan for education/long-term goals via systematic planning

Keep emergency reserve intact and live beneath means

Write a will and estate file once baby arrives

Stay consistent with your 5-lakh monthly allocation. The structure supports multiple goals.

Final Insights
Your income and savings are robust—very encouraging

Shift towards active, goal-based funds guided by CFP

Maintain discipline in EMI, insurance, and liquidity

Create dedicated buckets for family and retirement

Monitor and rebalance regularly, not reactively

Invest in yourself and grow income to amplify wealth

Be flexible—adjust plans as baby's arrival and life shifts

This structured 360-degree approach balances family, future, and financial freedom.

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

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |6244 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 10, 2025
Career
Integrated M Tech in Software Engineering or B Tech Electrical and CSE with Minor AI & ML (Both from VIT Chennai) - Which one to choose for better career options?
Ans: Both the Integrated M.Tech in Software Engineering and B.Tech Electrical and CSE with Minor in AI & ML at VIT Chennai offer strong academic and placement prospects, but they serve different career goals. The Integrated M.Tech in Software Engineering is a five-year program with about 70% placement rate, focusing on deep software engineering skills and providing a direct pathway to advanced roles in the IT sector, but it limits flexibility if you wish to switch fields later. The B.Tech Electrical and CSE with Minor in AI & ML is a four-year program, nearly 90% of students are placed, and it offers broader exposure to both core engineering and software, with the added advantage of specialization in high-demand AI/ML domains. Both programs benefit from VIT Chennai’s strong placement ecosystem, with top recruiters like Microsoft, Amazon, and Qualcomm, and average placement rates above 80% in recent years. The B.Tech with CSE and AI/ML minor provides more flexibility, industry relevance, and better prospects for diverse roles in both software and technology sectors, making it the preferable choice for most students seeking strong career options in a rapidly evolving job market. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x