CSR Updates (Circulars/Notifications)
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CSR Updates (Circulars/Notifications)
CSR Updates (Circulars/Notifications)
The regulatory landscape for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in India continues to evolve, reflecting the government’s intent to enhance transparency, accountability, and social impact through corporate contributions. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) regularly issues circulars, notifications, and amendments under Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, to guide companies in aligning their CSR activities with national development priorities.
This section provides the latest updates, official notifications, and regulatory changes related to CSR compliance, implementation frameworks, impact assessment guidelines, and reporting obligations (including CSR-1 and CSR-2 filings). Staying informed of these developments is essential for companies to ensure legal compliance, avoid penalties, and achieve meaningful social outcomes through their CSR initiatives.
Key CSR Updates & Notifications
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New entity categories are included: Section 8 companies, societies/trusts exempt under specified clauses of Section 10(23C) and approved under Section 80G.
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Mandatory submission of PAN, OTP‑verified emails, DSC, and professional certification by CA/CS/CMA.
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False declarations may attract penalties under Sections 448/449.
CSR Rules Amendment, 2022 – G.S.R. 715(E) (20 Sept 2022)
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Rule 3 now mandates that any company with unspent CSR amounts must form a CSR Committee and comply with Sections 135(2)–(6).
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The exemption under Rule 3(2) (which previously allowed CSR provisions to lapse after three years) has been removed.
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Companies can appoint Section 8 companies, exempted trusts or societies (with 80G/12A exemptions) as implementing agencies without CSR‑1 registration.
Compliance Checklist (Based on Latest Circulars)
| Area | Requirement |
|---|---|
| CSR Committee | Required if any unspent CSR balance exists |
| Implementing Agency | Section 8/80G‑exempted entities now eligible |
| Impact Assessment | Eligible for 2% or ₹50 lakh (whichever higher) |
| Board Report | Aggregated disclosures; executive summary; unspent fund analytics |