How is the IEPFA Committee Simplifying Documentation for Low-Value Claims?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Proposal to simplify documentation for low-value claims.
- Expected to enhance ease of living for investors.
- Involves multiple stakeholders from various financial institutions.
- Claims up to Rs 5 lakh for physical securities and Rs 15 lakh for demat securities.
- Focus on transparency and improving investor services.
New Delhi, Sep 6 (NationPress) A committee established by the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) has put forth a proposal aimed at streamlining documentation for low-value claims, enhancing the ease of living, as announced by the government on Saturday.
This initiative is anticipated to significantly shorten processing times, enhance transparency, and provide smoother services to investors, according to an official statement.
The IEPFA, functioning under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, formed this committee to evaluate current procedures and propose reforms to simplify documentation in cases involving low-value claims.
The committee included members from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), IEPFA, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
Additionally, representatives from the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI), the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI), the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), and the Registrar Association of India (RAIN) were also included in the committee's composition.
The recommendations, upon approval by IEPFA, will pertain to claims valued up to Rs 5 lakh (physical securities), Rs 15 lakh (demat securities), and dividends up to Rs 10,000, as proposed by the committee.
Since its inception in 2016, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) has been responsible for managing the Investor Education and Protection Fund, which aims to protect investor interests by facilitating the return of shares, unclaimed dividends, and matured deposits or debentures.
Through its initiatives, the IEPFA strives to ensure transparency, uphold investors' rights, and promote financial literacy nationwide. Recently, the IEPFA launched a national campaign to empower shareholders by raising awareness about unclaimed dividends held by companies and providing guidance on updating their KYC and nomination details to reclaim their rightful dividends.