In a groundbreaking move, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has announced the establishment of a Central Processing Centre (CPC) in Manesar through Notification No. S.O. 446(E) dated 2nd February 2024. This strategic initiative aims to streamline and expedite the processing and disposal of e-forms filed under the Companies Act, 2013.
Central Processing Centre at Manesar:
The Central Government, exercising its powers under sub-sections (1) and (2) of section 396 of the Companies Act, 2013, has designated the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs in Manesar, District Gurgaon (Haryana), as the location for the Central Processing Centre. The Centre, with territorial jurisdiction across India, will come into operation from the 6th of February 2024.
Key Provisions of the Notification:
1. Responsibilities of the Central Processing Centre: The Central Processing Centre is mandated to process and dispose of e-forms that are filed along with the prescribed fee, as stipulated in the Companies (Registration of Offices and Fees) Rules, 2014.
2. Jurisdictional Division: While the Central Processing Centre takes charge of e-forms, the jurisdictional Registrars (excluding the Registrar of the Central Processing Centre) will continue to hold authority over companies concerning all other provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, and the rules therein.
3. Effective Date: The notification will be effective from the 6th of February 2024, signifying a paradigm shift in the processing of e-forms for companies across the country.
Implications of the Notification:
1. Enhanced Efficiency: The establishment of the Central Processing Centre is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency of processing e-forms, reducing the time required for approvals and registrations.
2. Uniform Processing Standards: With a centralized facility, there is an opportunity for standardization in the processing of e-forms, ensuring consistency in application and interpretation of the Companies Act.
3. Reduced Administrative Burden: Companies filing e-forms can now benefit from a more streamlined process, reducing administrative burdens and promoting a business-friendly environment.
4. Jurisdictional Clarity: The delineation of responsibilities between the Central Processing Centre and jurisdictional Registrars brings clarity to the regulatory landscape, ensuring a smoother compliance process for companies.
Conclusion: The establishment of the Central Processing Centre at Manesar marks a progressive step by the MCA to modernize and simplify the company registration process in India. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader agenda of fostering ease of doing business, promoting transparency, and leveraging technology for the benefit of businesses and stakeholders. Companies are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these changes and leverage the streamlined processes for a more efficient regulatory compliance experience.
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MINISTRY OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS
NOTIFICATION
New Delhi, the 2nd February, 2024
S.O. 446(E).—In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-sections (1) and (2) of section 396 of the Companies Act, 2013 (18 of 2013), the Central Government hereby establishes a Central Processing Centre at Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs, Plot No. 6,7,8, Sector 5, IMT Manesar, District Gurgaon (Haryana), Pin Code- 122050 having territorial jurisdiction all over India, for the purpose of the provisions of the said section.
2. The Central Processing Centre shall process and dispose off e-forms filed along with the fee as provided in the Companies (Registration of Offices and Fees) Rules, 2014.
3. The jurisdictional Registrar, other than Registrar of the Central Processing Centre, within whose jurisdiction the registered office of the company is situated shall continue to have jurisdiction over the companies whose e-forms are processed by the Registrar of the Central Processing Centre in respect of all other provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the rules made thereunder.
4. This notification shall come into force from the 6th February, 2024.
[F. No. A-42/46/2023-Ad.II-MCA]
ANURADHA THAKUR, Addl. Secy.
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