<h1>Recognition of Company Secretaries as Key Managerial Persons strengthens corporate governance role and accountability under the new companies law.</h1> The Companies Bill, 2012 is expected to strengthen corporate governance through enhanced disclosure, transparency and accountability, protect investors, and facilitate corporate social responsibility. The law formally recognises Company Secretaries as Key Managerial Persons, positioning them as Chief Governance Officers with expanded roles in secretarial audit, restructuring, liquidation, valuation and other governance functions.