If you truly want to protect your family's interests after you pass on, you need to consider succession planning to ensure your loved ones inherit your assets smoothly. 

Among the multiple options available, the following tools stand out and needs to be considered by every Indian family:

1. Gift or Settlement Deed: Transfer assets to your spouse or children while you're still alive, avoiding future disputes. However, be cautious not to transfer everything, as it can have unintended consequences. Also, the assets are irrevocably transferred, and the transferor loses their right on those assets. The transferer runs the risk of the transferee not taking care of their interest and welfare after the transfer is completed. If possible, retain some control or oversight over the gifted assets, such as through a trust or conditional gift. Regularly review and update the Gift Deed as needed to reflect changes in your circumstances or intentions.

2. Registered Will: Specify how your assets will be divided after your passing. But be aware that unregistered wills, while being legally valid in India, can lead to disputes and challenges.

3. Family Trust: Suitable for high-net-worth individuals with complex assets and business interests. Trusts provide a safe and controlled way to manage your wealth.

4. Hindu Undivided Family (HUF): Ideal for ancestral properties, HUFs allow you to pass on assets to the family as a whole, while also providing tax benefits.

5. Liquidation and distribution: Ideal for families with properties where physically splitting or apportioning the asset if not feasible and may lead to disputes later. It is best in such circumstances to sell the property and distribute the cash amongst the intended beneficiaries. However, this may not be tax efficient and capital gains tax may be applicable on the liquidated assets.

Each tool serves a unique purpose and caters to different family dynamics. By understanding and utilizing these tools effectively, you can ensure your family's financial security and avoid potential conflicts.