The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, collaborated with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to organize a preparatory meeting on May 9, 2025, in Mumbai. The meeting focused on launching Niveshak Shivir, a nationwide initiative to help investors reclaim unclaimed dividends and shares.
What is Niveshak Shivir?
A Nationwide Investor Assistance Program
Niveshak Shivir is an initiative by IEPFA and SEBI to assist investors in reclaiming unclaimed dividends and shares. It aims to improve financial literacy, reduce reliance on intermediaries, and provide direct support through helpdesks staffed by company representatives and Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTAs).
Key Attendees of the Meeting
Prominent Stakeholders
The meeting at SEBI’s Mumbai office was attended by:
- Smt. Anita Shah Akella, CEO of IEPFA and Joint Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
- Shri Ananth Narayan G., Whole-Time Member, SEBI.
- Shri Shashi Kumar Valsakumar and Shri Jeevan Sonparote, Executive Directors, SEBI.
- Representatives from NSE, BSE, NSDL, CDSL, and RTAs like Link Intime and KFin Technologies.
Action Points for Shareholders
Steps to Reclaim Assets
The meeting outlined steps for shareholders:
- Dematerialized shares: Contact the company directly for clarification.
- Physical shares: Check status on the IEPFA website. If transferred, file Form IEPF-5 or contact the RTA for assistance.
- IEPFA Search Facility: Use https://iepfa.gov.in/login to verify if shares are with the IEPFA or the company.
Rollout of Niveshak Shivir
Starting in Key Cities
Niveshak Shivir will begin in Mumbai and Ahmedabad later in May 2025, with plans to expand to other cities with high volumes of unclaimed investor assets. The initiative will streamline the process of reclaiming dividends and shares, making it more investor-friendly.
About IEPFA
Protecting Investor Interests
The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, works to safeguard investor interests and promote financial literacy. Through initiatives like Niveshak Shivir, it fosters a transparent and investor-friendly financial ecosystem in India.
Why This Matters for Competitive Exams
Questions on financial policies, investor protection, and current affairs are common in exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and Railways. Understanding Niveshak Shivir, the role of IEPFA and SEBI, and the process for reclaiming unclaimed assets can help students excel in general awareness and essay sections.
Post Date: May 10, 2025