Section 178 of the Companies Act, 2013

Section 178 of the Companies Act, 2013Nomination and Remuneration Committee and Stakeholders Relationship Committee

🔹 Purpose of Section 178:

To ensure transparency and accountability in the appointment and remuneration of directors and senior management, and to protect the interests of stakeholders.

Key Provisions:

1. Constitution of Nomination and Remuneration Committee (NRC) – [Sub-section (1)]:

Certain classes of companies (mainly listed companies and those prescribed) must constitute an NRC comprising:

≥ 3 non-executive directors,

Out of which at least 50% shall be independent directors.

2. Functions of NRC – [Sub-section (2)]:

The NRC shall:

Identify qualified persons for appointment as:

Directors,

Senior management.

Recommend their appointment/removal.

Formulate criteria for:

Performance evaluation of directors.

Recommend remuneration policy for directors and key managerial personnel (KMPs).

3. Remuneration Policy – [Sub-section (3)]:

NRC shall ensure the policy:

Is reasonable and sufficient to attract talent.

Is performance-linked.

Balances fixed and variable pay.

The policy must be disclosed in the Board’s report.

4. Stakeholders Relationship Committee – [Sub-section (5)]:

Companies with >1,000 shareholders, debenture-holders, or security-holders must form a Stakeholders Relationship Committee.

Chaired by a non-executive director.

Looks into grievances of stakeholders (e.g., share transfers, dividend issues, etc.).

5. Board Evaluation – [Sub-section (4)]:

The Board shall carry out evaluation of its own performance and that of:

Committees,

Individual directors,

Based on a formal evaluation process.

6. Disclosure Requirements – [Sub-section (4) & (3)]:

The company's Board report must disclose:

NRC policy,

Manner of formal evaluation.

🧾 Applicability:

Mainly applies to listed companies and public companies meeting prescribed thresholds of paid-up capital or turnover.

📌 Summary Table:

CommitteeRequirementRole
NRCMandatory for listed companiesAppointment, remuneration, evaluation
Stakeholders Committee>1,000 security holdersResolves grievances

 

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