With more than 1000 schemes in the market, theer is a scheme to cater to ur needs. U can invest in MF on monthly, quarterly and annually basis. Equity sector is giving since like three years now an annual return of 30 to 35%. Debt - 6 to 7%. If you are thinking of investing Rs. 2 lac lump sum then invest in liquid fund and then do systematic transfer to an equity fund so as to average ur cost as well as take advantage of the market.