The Companies Act, 2013 which replaces Companies Act, 1956 incorporates various provisions aimed at strengthening of corporate governance in companies in India, many of which are based on recommendations of various committees. Twenty four sets of rules under the Companies Act 2013, finalized after extensive consultations with stakeholders have also been notified. These provisions include, inter-alia, enhanced responsibilities for Board and its committees like the Audit Committee and Nomination and Remuneration Committee, enhanced disclosures to stakeholders, appointment of Independent Directors, stricter norms for ensuring independence and accountability of auditors, greater level of investor protection.

 The first year of implementation of the commenced provisions has been completed on 31.3.2015. Statutory annual filings which will substantially report on the requirements laid down in the new provisions are not yet due. The Registrar of Companies, within their respective jurisdictions, are the authorities entrusted under the Act to initiate action in case of violation of any provision of the Act.

 This information was given by Shri Arun Jaitley, Minister of Corporate Affairs in written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha today.

Strengthening corporate governance increases board, director and auditor duties, boosts disclosures and investor protection with registrar enforcement. The Companies Act, 2013 strengthens corporate governance by enhancing Board and committee responsibilities, mandating broader stakeholder disclosures, introducing Independent Directors with stricter independence norms, and tightening auditor independence and accountability; notified rules operationalise these reforms and Registrar of Companies offices are empowered to initiate action for violations.