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Shalini

Shalini Singh  |168 Answers  |Ask -

Dating Coach - Answered on Apr 11, 2023

Shalini Singh is the founder of andwemet, an online matchmaking service for urban Indians living in India and overseas. After graduating from college as a kindergarten teacher, Singh worked at various firms specialising in marketing strategy, digital marketing and public relations before finding her niche as an entrepreneur. In 2008, she founded Galvanise PR, an independent communications and public relations. In 2019, she launched andwemet.
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Ritu Question by Ritu on Apr 10, 2023Hindi
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Relationship

We broke up in January. In Feb he let me know that he wants some space and time to get healed. When I stop respond his calls in March he asked for a discussion over the issues we had. In those days I was a bit busy with official works so couldn’t meet for discussion. Then he was angry that I am not showing interest in discussion. Then we meet to talk but he become angry recalling the fight at the time of our break up. I want to reconcile the relationship. At some point from his messages I think he want but sometime I think he doesn’t. How should I proceed.

Ans: if the relationship is important to you - then both need to give it priority for now - which means focus on the relationship - even if it requires to take off from work. Do keep in mind, to keep your cool, atleast one has to be calm... Do also be prepared for angst too - having said this, if you decide to get back - then it is important that you will need to forget and forgive and look forward to building your life again. ps: just know you are not unique - 90% of best relationships face challenges as you are facing and overcome them because they wish to. All the best.

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1637 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Apr 06, 2022

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Relationship
Hi I am 23 years old and had a first relationship with 4 years younger boy. Everything between us was picture perfect. He was everything I ever dreamt of, but after 1 year our relationship turned toxic.He's acting like he wasn’t aware that ups and downs come but we should stick to each other. He asked to break up twice and we again came together but now it’s been months we aren’t together anymore. I’m emotionally attached to him but tired of bearing this pain and constantly fearing he will leave me when conditions aren’t favourable. But after break up he still wants to be friends. I even agreed that. Even in friendship he's talking and roaming as per only his convenience. Guide me how to come out of pain as I’m pursuing one of the renowned career course and also this also is affecting my mental health.
Ans:

Dear D,

Emotional maturity is what is in question here. He still is at an age where commitment is not something he is aware of.

It’s like try this relationship, if it doesn’t work, try another one and so on….

Give him time to settle his emotions till he is ready for a committed relationship; which does not mean, you wait around for ever.

Now that you are ‘friends’ or not, please surround yourself with people your age and if an interesting person comes along, see where that goes.

As far as being attached to him goes, do you really want to continue to inflict pain on yourself by basing your entire emotional world with him?

The world is huge and so are your sights…. Focus on yourself and what you love and be in that space to find yourself again.

Be kind to yourself, all the best! 

..Read more

Love Guru

Love Guru   | Answer  |Ask -

Relationships Expert - Answered on May 30, 2022

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Relationship
Hello Love Guru. I want to ask about my ex. We had relationship for past two years but kind of on and off. During initial stages we both acted immaturely and broke up but still one of us patch up. Last time, last year in September, my ex broke up saying he doesn't like my personality and our relationship is unmotivating. Even the previous breakup was by him saying he needs time and space. Although he had introduced me to his sister and friends, I think he is just been in relationship for TP. When he broke up last time, he got promoted at work maybe that’s why. Currently he said he has quit his job IDK reason and suddenly he realised he took wrong decisions. I was sure I don't want to give any more chance. So I told him that introduce me to your parents as your GF, not for marriage now. He said he will try but not sure. I have decided he is free and hence he wants relationship so not moving forward with him. Please tell me what you think. Although, after our patch-up, I do see small efforts from his side but I was always one who was on giving end.
Ans:

Your mail is quite confusing in the sense that I don’t know whether you’re currently with him or not; you refer to him as your ex and then say that after your patch-up you’re seeing that he’s making an effort.

Anyway, whether you’re on or off at present, this guy seems rather whimsical. And yes, I think your instinct is right in that he’s at loose ends right now without a job, etc, and wants some emotional support maybe, which is why he wants to get back with you.

I’m not saying don’t give him a chance; you can, if you think he’s genuinely realised that he wants to be with you. But, yes, he should make it official.

And if I were you, I’d be sure of things before getting too involved too fast this time around.

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1637 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jan 19, 2022

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Relationship
Ma'am, I'm in a relationship for three years now. Everything was normal in the beginning. But the past year has been extremely tumultuous for us as I've been expressing unnecessary anger towards my significant other.I never used to yell at him or push him to the point where he'd get annoyed of me and stops talking to me. While I'm the kind of person who likes to talk things out after a few hours of the argument but he's the opposite. He takes his own sweet time which is not wrong. I realise I treat him differently from my friends as I know subconsciously he won't break up with me. The last fight we had over something trivial made me feel like I pulled the last straw and I'm very guilty about it. Even I've started to realise now that somewhere along the way I took him for granted and kept hurting him as he gave me a lot of chances to improve. He is a very sweet person but I feel like I've turned him into an egoistic monster who doesn't want to see or talk to me anymore. I don't know how to save this relationship. I don't know if I should kill my hopes of continuing this relationship. We haven't spoken to each other for more than 2 weeks now and I am using this time to change myself and learn to control my anger and to speak with everyone with respect and understand them better. I want to tell him that I'm genuinely improving this time but he doesn't seem interested in listening to me as I've misused the prior chances so obviously he feels like he's being deceived this time to. So I made my mind to speak to him after a month until I feel like I've changed at least a little so I'm worthy of his love. Also I don't let my short temper and rudeness affect our relationship. But I'm afraid he might hate me even more for not trying to talk to him. I'm confused wondering if he'll move on and not realise in trying to change. What should I do?AM
Ans:

Dear AM,

Oh my dear, why are you being so unkind to yourself? It takes two to tango!

Maybe, you realize that you have been taking him for granted, but hey, there’s an expiry date to punishing yourself over it.

Once you know, it’s time to work on your relationship and that certainly doesn’t mean being harsh.

This could also lead you to feel victimised and not be a very favourable mindset. Instead, what if you get to the root of the challenge at hand?

Here’s a few reality check questions. It might give you a chance to go back to the drawing board and reevaluate your relationship with a fresh pair of eyes.

What is causing me to have that temper?

What usually triggers the arguments?

What did I see in my partner when I chose him to be my significant half?

Do I still see the same in him even now or has it changed? If yes, what has changed? Am I willing to adapt to the change?

What causes me to be afraid of him moving on? Am I in a co-dependent relationship?

What will happen to me if he moves on?

Why is important for me to put so much energy into changing myself? Is it for myself or to keep him from moving on?

You get the drift?

You can add to these questions and give your mind an alternate way of processing things into a solution space.

Having said this; it’s time to give yourself some love too, no matter what, prioritize yourself and create some mind space to reevaluate where you are to where you want to be.

Happy 2022 and best wishes!

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1637 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Feb 27, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 15, 2025Hindi
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Dear Anu, I am a highly introvert girl with no friends and is preparing for a tough competitive exam. I love a guy and was dating him for 5 years. Due to our diametrically opposite career choices, uncertain future, and for 2 years long distance, he broke up with me. We talked about reconciliation in future if things turned out in our favour. But I feel he is indifferent regarding the breakup as he went to Goa just after that. In frustration I texted a guy from my inbox who wanted to meet me. So I met him. He is good, intellectual and highly principled. We never formally asked each other to date but he was helping me out for my exams and we achieved many milestones together. But after some time I got introduced to his short temper and dominating behaviour which bothers me a lot and I talked about it many times with him. I cry every single day (it's been 5 months now) since I broke up. Met a new guy I don't really love but he has done a lot for me so I don't want to hurt him. I am facing this mental turmoil whether to stay in this new relationship or should I wait for my ex to reconcile with me as I still love him a lot.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
What you need is a good break away from relationships. Till you learn to appreciate yourself, no one else is going to!
You have just on a rebound gotten into another relationship and obviously when you are in a weak place, his dominant nature is going to be prominent.
Heart breaks are very difficult BUT before you process it, you have jumped into the arms of another. When I say, 'process', it means evaluating what went wrong and what was right in the previous relationship. This will help you in understanding what you want in a relationship and how to spot red flags in one.
That is why I keep stressing on: Heal from a relationship fully before jumping into another one.
So, at this point, you need a break from it all...you will be doing yourself a huge favor...

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8323 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8323 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

Career
Gaurav Asked on - Jul 07, 2025 Hello Sir, My son has secured CSE in Manipal Jaipur & also CSE in Chandigarh University. Your suggestion/ recommendation on the pros & corns.
Ans: Gaurav Sir, Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ), located on the Jaipur–Ajmer Road, offers a four-year B.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering with a credit-based curriculum allowing specializations in AI-ML, cybersecurity, IoT and data science from the third semester. Its 120-strong PhD faculty maintain a 1:20 student-teacher ratio, guiding hands-on projects in twelve advanced computing labs and smart classrooms. MUJ achieved 93% overall placements and 88% CSE placements in 2023–25 through recruiters like Amazon, Google and Cisco, backed by an active incubation centre and industry-aligned workshops. Chandigarh University (CU), in Mohali near Chandigarh, delivers an ABET- and NBA-accredited B.Tech CSE programme with a globally benchmarked curriculum spanning software engineering, data analytics and cloud computing, supported by centres of excellence with IBM, Cisco and Oracle. Its dedicated placement cell recorded 90%+ CSE/IT placements and a median package of ?8 LPA in 2023–24, with 900+ recruiters including Microsoft, Amazon and Deloitte. Campus life at MUJ thrives on cultural fests and a 122-acre green campus, while CU’s 250-acre modern campus offers international exchange programmes and 100% paid internships.

MUJ’s robust coding culture, entrepreneurial incubation, industry?tied labs and high placement momentum foster innovation, though its higher tuition fees can strain budgets—scholarships and work-study roles alleviate this. Occasional faculty–student ratio spikes in popular electives may limit personalized mentorship—addressed via peer study groups. CU’s global accreditation, extensive recruiter network and international research tie-ups enhance employability, yet large batch sizes can dilute hands-on opportunities—mitigated by lab quotas and hackathons. Campus residential fees at CU are substantial but offset by paid internships. Both institutions face geographic distance from major tech hubs—virtual internships and industry webinars bridge this gap.

Recommendation: Choose Chandigarh University CSE for its international accreditation, expansive industry partnerships, and paid internship model, or opt for Manipal University Jaipur CSE for its specialized lab infrastructure, incubation support, and personalized mentorship, based on your preference for global exposure versus entrepreneurial ecosystem. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9506 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 01, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 43 and have a single child of 5 yrs of age. I have no loans, and approx 5 cr invested in couple of properties (which I don't use to live ) which are in upcoming areas and would not generate any returns on rent as such, but I expect it to be appreciated by 12-13% an year for another decade , I expect them to go by ex in another decade. Apart from it , my monthly salary is 1.2L and I have approx 45-50L present in PPF and stocks. I can see myself working for another 3-4 years with not much increase in salary and then it's uncertain. I don't wish to sell the properties now as there is a definate growth in these upcoming areas though the black money would be more when I will convert them to something rental. I want to ask that would that be enough to retire like after 5 years or so and what other things I can take into account before I plan to quit. Thank you.
Ans: Income & Assets Overview
You are 43 years old.

You plan to retire by age 48.

You have one dependent child aged 5.

Your current income is Rs. 1.2 lakhs per month.

No loans or EMIs. That is great.

Your investments include:

Properties worth around Rs. 5 crores (non-income-generating).

Rs. 45–50 lakhs in PPF and equity shares.

This is a strong financial base. But for early retirement, you need stable cashflows, not just assets.

Property Investment Assessment
Your real estate assets are non-liquid and non-income generating.

You are expecting 12–13% per annum appreciation for 10 years.

Please note:

This return is not guaranteed.

Property sales also involve taxes, black-white mix, and delays.

Real estate becomes illiquid during market slowdowns or policy changes.

If no rent is expected, it won’t help your cashflow in retirement.

So, properties can be a back-end wealth builder, not a front-end cashflow enabler.

PPF and Stock Investments
Rs. 45–50 lakhs is split between PPF and stocks.

PPF is stable and tax-free, but not liquid before maturity.

Equity is volatile and carries market timing risk.

This amount is not enough to sustain a 30+ year retirement, unless supplemented with consistent income.

Family & Retirement Duration
Your daughter is 5 now.

Her college education and marriage are future major expenses.

You will need to support her for at least 20 more years.

So, you must plan for:

Child’s school, college, post-graduation.

Her marriage, health and emergency needs.

A retirement corpus should cover all this without burdening your daughter.

Investment Diversification & Liquidity Planning
Your portfolio is property heavy, and that adds risk.

A well-diversified plan should include:

Mutual Funds (SIPs in diversified active funds)

Liquid funds for emergencies

Balanced allocation in low-volatility instruments

What can be done:

Build Rs. 1 crore liquid corpus in next 4–5 years.

Increase allocation to active mutual funds via SIPs.

Invest through a Certified Financial Planner or MFD, not directly.

Direct funds lack guidance and lead to poor discipline.

Regular plans through experts offer custom advice.

Avoid index funds.

They don’t beat markets.

Active funds with human expertise perform better in volatile markets.

Retirement Cashflow Planning
If you retire at 48, you need to plan for:

At least 35–40 years of post-retirement life.

Monthly expenses for you and your daughter.

Inflation-adjusted cost of living.

Let’s assume:

You need Rs. 1 lakh/month post-retirement.

This increases by 6% every year.

Without passive monthly income, this will be difficult.

You should plan to:

Create a Rs. 3–4 crore liquid retirement corpus by 48.

Ensure monthly income streams start from that corpus.

Invest in:

Equity mutual funds for growth.

Hybrid funds for stability.

Conservative funds for monthly income.

Insurance Preparedness
Do you have sufficient term life cover?

Minimum Rs. 1 crore cover needed.

Should last till your daughter turns 25.

Do you have medical insurance?

Rs. 20–30 lakhs cover for self and child is essential.

These two covers will protect your goal planning in case of uncertainty.

Taxation Planning
PPF is tax-free, but limited in liquidity.

Stock gains are taxed:

Equity LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakhs is taxed at 12.5%.

STCG is taxed at 20%.

Mutual fund gains will be taxed similarly.

Rental income from future properties will be taxable.

Plan asset allocation and withdrawal keeping these in mind.

Emergency Fund & Buffer
Keep Rs. 5–6 lakhs in a liquid fund or bank for:

Health issues

Job break before retirement

Major repairs, travel or crisis

Emergency fund is not for investing. It’s for protecting investments.

Goals Checklist Before Quitting Job
Here is what you need to assess before you retire in 5 years:

Corpus Readiness:

Target Rs. 3–4 crore liquid corpus in mutual funds and stocks.

Cashflow Readiness:

Identify how monthly income will come after retirement.

Don’t depend only on property sales.

Child’s Future:

Education fund and marriage fund to be earmarked separately.

At least Rs. 25–30 lakhs needed for education in 12 years.

Insurance Readiness:

Life cover (Rs. 1 crore minimum).

Medical cover (Rs. 20–30 lakhs floater).

Goal Discipline:

Don’t sell stocks or PPF in panic.

Maintain SIPs through market ups and downs.

Avoid risky instruments promising high returns.

Tax Planning:

Plan withdrawals tax-efficiently.

Spread redemptions across years if needed.

Lifestyle Budgeting:

Prepare a budget for post-retirement lifestyle.

Include medical, travel, household, daughter’s needs.

Retirement Stress Test:

Run simulations with a Certified Financial Planner.

Factor inflation, market crash, medical event, delayed property sale.

Actionable To-Do List
Start SIP of Rs. 50,000/month into active diversified mutual funds.

Avoid direct plans. Invest through MFD with CFP guidance.

Build liquid emergency fund now.

Create child’s education fund separately.

Take medical insurance before retirement.

Keep property, but don’t depend fully on sale value.

Convert part of corpus into income-generating assets later.

Review portfolio every year with expert help.

Finally
You are in a strong position, but not yet fully retirement-ready.

The properties are good on paper, but won’t feed you monthly.

To retire in 5 years, create an income bridge from mutual funds and stocks.

Add insurance, emergency reserves, and child education funds.

Don’t chase high returns. Focus on stability, liquidity, tax efficiency.

With disciplined action and professional help, your early retirement goal can become real.

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9506 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 01, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi Sir, I am 41year old IT professional, I earn 2.7lacs per month. My wife recently started working and earns 25k per month.. Have a flat worth 65lacs from which I get rent of abt 18k. Hv purchased another property 3yrs back, whr I am currently staying (1cr loan - current outstanding 91lacs), for which I pay an emi of about 1.05lacs. (This includes insurance for the homeloan principle). I invest 40k on MFs (inv 16lacs - current mkt value 24lacs - for my kids education). Monthly 30k on RD ( for cashflow/year end expenses if any and school fees for kids - 7th grade & 5th grade). Monthly expenses comes to 65K. Keep a misc buffer of 30k for unknown expenses. My current PF balance is around 30lacs, which I plan to keep for my retirement. I hv a term plan for 25Lacs. Would like to take early retirement like in another 10 to 15yrs of horizon. So I would like to close my loan at the earliest and would like to build asset for retirement and save 25lacs for my daughter's marriage. Could you please advise.
Ans: You are 41-year?old, salaried months 2.7?lakhs, spouse earns 25?k. You earn rental of 18?k. You carry a high home?loan EMI of 1.05?lakhs. You invest 40?k monthly in mutual funds and 30?k in RD for kids and expenses. You have PF?30?lakhs, term cover of 25?lakhs, and want early retirement in 10–15?years. You also want to close home loans early and save 25?lakhs for your daughter’s marriage.

Let us analyse step by step across your multiple goals.

Clarity on Your Goals and Timeframes
You want loan repayment early (10–15?years).

Save 25?lakhs for daughter’s marriage (likely in 5–7?years).

Build retirement corpus after loan is closed or along.

Keep stability in monthly cash flow.

You have multiple goals with overlapping timelines. Each must get clear strategy and funding.

Understanding Your Monthly Cash Flow
Income sources:

You: Rs?2.7?lakhs

Wife: Rs?25?k

Rent: Rs?18?k

Total: Rs?3.13?lakhs

Monthly cash outflows:

Loan EMI: Rs?1.05?lakhs

MF SIP: Rs?40?k

RD: Rs?30?k

Expenses: Rs?65?k

Misc buffer: Rs?30?k

This leaves Rs?83?k approx each month. Good.

But loan EMI remains high. And you’ve invested consistently in MFs and RD. You have good cash leftover for additional goals.

Step 1 – Loan Analysis and Prepayment Strategy
Your home loan outstanding: Rs?91?lakhs. EMI: Rs?1.05?lakhs. You want to close loan early.

Questions:

Is rate fixed or floating?

Can you refinance to lower EMI or prepay?

Is part?prepayment penalty applicable?

Proposed steps:

Refinance if possible for a lower interest rate. That saves monthly outflow.

Use surplus cash to part?prepay during low?rate or bonus months.

Build a structured prepayment plan, not ad hoc. Clear targets each year.

Do not stop your MF investments; maintain growth.

This slowly reduces interest burden while preserving investments.

Step 2 – Funding Daughter’s Marriage Goal
Your daughter is in 5th?grade. Likely marriage in 10–15?years.

You want Rs?25?lakhs then. You already invest 40?k monthly in MFs (rising corpus of 24 lakhs). Good foundation.

Suggested approach:

Keep current SIP of Rs?40?k focused on a goal?based portfolio.

Consider adding small monthly top?up of Rs?10–20?k, if surplus allows.

Use conservative hybrid funds or child?funds to keep risk moderate.

Review progress every year to ensure 25?lakhs target is on track.

This keeps funding on track without stressing cash flow.

Step 3 – Early Retirement Corpus Planning
After loan is fully repaid, you want to build retirement corpus.

You have PF 30?lakhs. Aside from that, MF 24?lakhs, RD a future fund.

To retire in 10–15?years, you need a corpus of Rs?5–8?crores (approx).

Building path:

Keep current MF investments focused on growth equity & hybrids.

Post?loan repayment, redirect EMI surplus into high?growth funds.

Use spouse income for additional SIPs or lump sum once comfortable.

Maintain PF account and optionally top?up NPS or PPF every year.

Reinvest part of dividend or capital gains for compounding.

This blends aggressive growth with diversification over next 10–15 years.

Step 4 – Ensuring Liquidity and Buffers
You maintain an RD for cash flow/future school fees. Good.

Enhancements:

Create a 6?month emergency corpus in liquid or overnight funds.

Avoid using RDs for emergencies; they are rigid.

Your misc buffer of 30?k can be reduced once true corpus exists.

Align your buffer to hit goals but not overfund.

This gives you stability and flexibility.

Step 5 – Portfolio Allocation Review
Your current MF corpus: invested for kids. Good.

But allocation is not stated.

Ideal allocation across all investments:

PF – retirement

MF equity – growth & retirement

MF hybrid – stability

RD – short?term expenses

Liquidity fund – emergency buffer

Once you repay loan, rebalance to focus more on retirement portfolio.

Step 6 – Regular Plans through CFP?MFD
If you are using direct plans, reconsider.

Disadvantages of direct funds:

No expert rebalancing

May pick wrong funds

No behaviour support during downturns

You handle tax and allocation alone

Advantages of regular plans with CFP?MFD:

Professional fund selection

Periodic review and rebalancing

Behavioural guidance during volatility

Ongoing goal tracking

Small commission proves valuable over years.

Step 7 – Avoid Index Funds at This Stage
You may consider index funds for cost and simplicity.

But:

They follow market blindly

No strategy in downturns

No exit from poorly performing stocks

Actively managed equity and hybrid MFs offer better downside control and inflation protection. They suit your goals and risk profile more.

Step 8 – Tax Planning During Disinvestment
Once you start repaying loan and reallocating money:

Equity MF gains above Rs?1.25?lakhs taxed at 12.5% LTCG

STCG taxed at 20%

Debt hybrid fund gains taxed as per slab

Plan withdrawals and redemptions to stay within your tax brackets. CFP can help create tax?efficient strategies.

Step 9 – Insurance and Risk Cover
You have term cover of Rs?25?lakhs. Consider if this is enough.

Your EMI is high. Your liabilities are significant.

Review:

Increase term cover as loan reduces but overall liabilities grow?

Ensure health cover includes family and is adequate.

Avoid ULIPs or insurance?cum?investment products. They underperform.

Once term cover is set right, focus on growing your portfolio and reducing debt.

Step 10 – Annual Review and Rebalancing
Your journey requires annual check?ins:

Track loan outstanding and interest saved

Monitor fund returns and adjust allocation

Review goal progress for marriage, retirement

Adjust spending or buffer as needed

Plan bonus or appraisal money into goal portfolios

This keeps your plan relevant and on track.

Final Insights
You have disciplined savings and diversified investments.

Your high EMI is offset by surplus cash flow.

Priorities now should be:

Reduce interest burden via part?prepayment and refinance

Fund your daughter’s marriage goal using current SIP

Maintain buffer for emergencies and school fees

Build retirement corpus through PF, equity, hybrids post loan

Review insurance, tax plans, and portfolio annually

Use regular fund plans with MFD?CFP support

Avoid index funds, direct plans, real estate, ULIPs

This structured, multi?goal plan ensures you meet all financial obligations while still building future wealth and flexibility.

Your early retirement goal is absolutely possible with continued discipline and professional guidance.

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9506 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

Money
I am 42. Will retire by 2043. My expenses are around 70K/month .I earn 1.5 Lacs/month & am able to save 50 K every month (20k PF, 10K NPS & 20K MF). I live in my own house(loan free.) I want a retirement corpus of 5 crores. Will it be enough?
Ans: Snapshot of Your Current Situation

Age: 42 years

Retirement planned in 2043 (around age 60)

Current monthly expenses: Rs 70,000

Monthly income: Rs 1,50,000

Monthly savings: Rs 50,000

Rs 20,000 into PF

Rs 10,000 into NPS

Rs 20,000 into mutual funds

You own your house outright (loan-free)

Well done — being mortgage-free is a great strength. You’ve also established a solid savings habit. That foundation is a strong start toward retirement planning.

Your Retirement Goal: Rs 5 Crore by 2043

You plan to retire in about 18–19 years.

Your current savings amount to Rs 50,000 monthly.

You want to accumulate Rs 5 crore in that timeframe.

Let’s assess if the path is clear and sufficient.

Evaluating Savings & Investment Mix

Your monthly investments:

PF and NPS contributions: Rs 30,000

Mutual fund SIP: Rs 20,000

PF and NPS are fixed-income instruments with moderate returns and tax advantages.
Your current MF allocation is small but essential for growth due to equity exposure.

To reach Rs 5 crore, you need a thoughtful allocation between equity and debt.

Why Active Funds Over Index or Direct Plans

You allow equity exposure for higher long-term growth.

Index funds track the market, offering only market-average returns.

In volatile markets, active funds can mitigate downside through selective stock picking.

Direct fund plans lack advisor oversight. They risk poor timing and emotional decisions.

Actively managed regular plans via CFP-guided MFDs help rebalance and capture market opportunity.

Projected Corpus Growth: Feasibility Check

With monthly SIP of Rs 20,000 only, reaching Rs 5 crore in 18 years is unlikely.
You’ll need to increase investments gradually and rebalance with income growth.

Assuming:

Equity returns average 12–14% annually

Debt returns average 6–8%

A disciplined increasing investment pattern will help you reach the target.

To boost your corpus, you must increase monthly investments in equity and hybrid funds over time.

Strategies to Close the Gap

Increase Mutual Fund SIP Gradually

Raise monthly equity SIP by Rs 5,000–10,000 every 2 years

Align increases with salary hikes or bonuses

Allocate More to Equity

Maintain a majority equity allocation (60–70%)

Add hybrid funds for balance and volatility management

Invest Lump Sum Wisely

Use bonuses or extra income to top up equity SIP or hybrid funds

Avoid large lumps in peaks—stagger over quarters

Build an Emergency Fund in Debt Funds

Maintain 6–9 months of living expenses

Use liquid or ultra-short duration debt funds

This prevents you from reducing equity SIP in emergencies

Tax & Retirement Benefits from NPS & PF

They offer tax deductions and forced savings

Use PF/NPS selectively; excess funds can move to equity later

Restructuring Your Monthly Savings

From current ?50,000 monthly:

Keep Rs 20,000 in PF (you can’t change employer’s contribution)

Keep Rs 10,000 in NPS for tax benefit

Increase equity monthly SIP from Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000 over time

For example:

Stage 1: Rs 20k equity SIP

Stage 2: After salary rise, raise to Rs 30k

Stage 3: Continue until equity SIP is Rs 40k

Rebalance annually to maintain allocation

This path ensures growth focus while keeping retirement tax deductions in place.

Balancing Debt and Equity Over Time

PF and NPS (debt or mixed instruments): Rs 30,000 monthly

Equity/hybrid funds: progressively increase to Rs 30,000–40,000

By retirement, your investment mix could be:

60–70% equity (via funds)

30–40% debt (PF, NPS, bond/hybrid funds)

This diversified mix balances growth and stability through life stages.

Periodic Portfolio Reviews & Rebalancing

Review portfolio with CFP every 6–12 months

Rebalance based on market performance

Sell excess equity gains into debt if equity crosses allocation limit

Use dips to increase equity SIP

Ensure you do not shift to direct plans which lack review mechanisms

Retirement Corpus Utilisation Strategy

At retirement, you’ll have a mix of equity, hybrid, and debt assets

To generate monthly income post-retirement:

Use SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) from debt or hybrid funds

Equity gives growth; buffers inflation

With Rs 5 crore corpus, withdrawals at 4–5% annually can meet your Rs 70,000/month expense

Regular review during retirement helps to avoid outliving your corpus

Protection and Insurance Review

You may already have PF and NPS.

Ensure you also have adequate term insurance.

Health insurance must cover long medical treatment.

Review insurance policies every 2–3 years.

Surrender any ULIP or LIC endowment policies if you have them.

Use pure term and health insurance instead for clarity and cost?benefit.

Pension & Other Sources

On retirement, PF and NPS may offer annuity options.

Explore partial annuity or phased retirement withdrawals.

You can withdraw under NPS partially at retirement.

Consider equity SWP over 10–15 years to defer withdrawal and taxes

Expense Control & Inflation Planning

Your current expenses are Rs 70,000/month

Account for inflation, at average 6–7% annually

By retirement, monthly needs may double to Rs 1.4 lakh

Your corpus must support this inflation-adjusted requirement

Tax Planning

PF, NPS, and equity funds have different tax impacts:

PF/NPS withdrawals have some tax liability post-60

Equity gains by mutual funds face LTCG of 12.5% on gains above Rs 1.25 lakh/year

Debt withdrawals taxed per slab

Use EPF/NPS to maximise Section 80C and 80CCD benefits

Post-retirement, SWPs should be structured for tax efficiency

Tracking Your Retirement Goal

Current age: 42

Retirement age: 60

Time horizon: ~18 years

Target corpus: Rs 5 crore

Current savings: Rs 50,000/month

Additional equity monthly savings: increased to Rs 40,000

Balanced asset allocation with regular rebalancing

Review progress annually with CFP and MFD

Adjust investments based on pay hikes and performance

What If You Lag Behind?

A Rs 5 crore goal may need around a 14–15% equity return

If returns are weaker, you may need higher monthly SIP

You can also adjust retirement age if necessary

Extending by 2–3 years adds buffer and compounding time

Major Lifestyle & Risk Insights

Avoid real estate investment for return generation

Keep lifestyle aligned with savings capacity

Prevent impulse big-ticket purchases

Maintain emergency fund intact

Insurance safeguards financial plan

Estate planning will protect your loved ones

Finally

Your retirement plan is on sound footing.

Continue PF and NPS for large part of debt allocation.

Increase equity SIP gradually to Rs 30–40k monthly.

Rebalance with CFP-guided oversight.

Maintain emergency fund and proper insurance.

Tax-efficient withdrawal planning at retirement.

Regular reviews ensure adjustments with life changes.

By following this disciplined 360° strategy, waiting for your targeted retirement date with confidence, Rs 5 crore is achievable—and likely sufficient to sustain your lifestyle needs post-retirement.

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

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8323 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 09, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir i have got cse in iiit naya raipur and also cse in rgipt.. further will be getting prodcution engineeringin Ranchi.. which one to chose, can u help?
Ans: International Institute of Information Technology, Naya Raipur (Chhattisgarh) offers a four-year B.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering with a modern, project-based curriculum in algorithms, AI and data science, guided by predominantly PhD-qualified faculty and supported by specialized computing and research labs, achieving a 76.7% placement rate in 2024 with a median CSE package of ?14 LPA and top offers up to ?82 LPA. Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology, Amethi (Uttar Pradesh) delivers a CSE programme under UGC recognition, featuring industry-aligned courses in software engineering and cybersecurity, with dedicated internship pipelines and an 82% average placement rate and ?8.15 LPA average CSE package in 2024. Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra (Ranchi, Jharkhand) provides B.Tech in Production Engineering, blending manufacturing theory, automation and supply-chain electives, taught by experienced faculty in state-of-the-art workshops, securing 61% placements in 2024 with an average package of ?11.57 LPA.

Recommendation: Opt for IIIT Naya Raipur CSE for its superior placement consistency, cutting-edge labs and strong research orientation; choose BIT Mesra Production Engineering for focused manufacturing expertise and robust infrastructure; consider RGIPT Amethi CSE if you value petroleum-sector internships and a balanced computing curriculum. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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

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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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