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Overview

Preparation of Minutes

Minutes are an official and legal record of the proceedings of meetings conducted by a company, including Board Meetings, General Meetings, and Committee Meetings. The preparation of minutes is governed by the Companies Act, 2013, and ensures transparency and proper documentation of decisions taken by the company’s management.

Minutes capture the essence of discussions, decisions, and resolutions passed during company meetings. They are vital for maintaining a legal record of company operations and provide clarity for stakeholders. As per Section 118 of the Companies Act, 2013, every company is required to prepare, maintain, and sign minutes of meetings within a specified time frame.

Important

1. Statutory Compliance : Ensures adherence to the Companies Act, 2013.

2. Legal Record : Serves as a legal document for decisions made during meetings.

3. Transparency : Provides stakeholders with insights into the company’s decision-making process.

4. Dispute Resolution : Acts as evidence in case of disputes or legal challenges.

5. Corporate Governance : Strengthens accountability and enhances governance practices.

Applicability

The preparation of minutes is required for

1. Board Meetings : Meetings of the Board of Directors.

2. General Meetings : Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM).

3. Committee Meetings : Meetings of Audit Committees, Nomination and Remuneration Committees, etc.



Documents Required




Features

Features & Benefits of Preparation of Minutes

Mandatory for All Companies
Applicable to all types of companies, including private, public, and listed entities.
Format and Content
Minutes must include the meeting's date, time, participants, agenda items, and resolutions.
Record Maintenance
Minutes are stored in bound minute books or in electronic format (for companies opting for digital records).
Chairman’s Signature
Must be signed by the Chairman or authorized signatory.
Inspection Rights
Shareholders, auditors, and regulatory authorities can inspect minutes.

Preparation of Minutes

Filing with ROC
Certain resolutions (e.g., special resolutions) must be filed with the ROC using prescribed forms like MGT-7 or MGT-14.
Legally Binding
Minutes are considered as evidence in legal proceedings.
Penalty for Non-Compliance
Non-maintenance of minutes can attract penalties under the Companies Act.
Audit Ready
Minutes are critical for statutory audits and due diligence processes.
Focus on Confidentiality
Sensitive details are recorded carefully to maintain confidentiality.



Comparison with Related Services

Feature Preparation of Minutes Board Resolutions Annual Return Filing
Objective Record meeting proceedings Document specific decisions Report corporate structure
Applicability Board/General/Committee Meetings Specific agenda items Annual Compliance
Timeline 15-30 days Same day or within 7 days Within 60 days of AGM
Regulatory Body MCA MCA MCA
Penalty for Non-Compliance High Moderate High
Inspection Rights Yes (by stakeholders) Limited Limited



Frequently Asked Questions

Who is responsible for preparing minutes of a meeting?

The Company Secretary or an authorized official is responsible for preparing minutes.

What is the timeline for preparing minutes?

Minutes of Board Meetings must be prepared within 15 days, and minutes of General Meetings within 30 days of the meeting.

Can minutes be maintained in electronic format?

Yes, companies can maintain minutes in electronic format, provided they meet the conditions prescribed under the Companies Act, 2013.

What is the penalty for not maintaining minutes?

Non-compliance can result in penalties up to ₹25,000 for the company and ₹5,000 for each officer in default.

Are minutes accessible to shareholders?

Yes, shareholders have the right to inspect minutes of General Meetings, but not Board Meetings unless authorized.

Do all resolutions need to be filed with the ROC?

Only certain resolutions, like special resolutions, need to be filed with the ROC using Form MGT-14.