INSTITUTE OF COMPANY SECRETARIES OF INDIA

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) is a national professional body in India functioning under the ownership of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India. Its objective is to promote, regulate and develop the profession of company secretaries in India. The institute is headquartered in New Delhi and maintains four regional offices located in New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai, in addition to 73 chapters spread across the country. To become a member, a person must pass all three levels of examinations prescribed by ICSI—CSEET (earlier known as Foundation), Executive and Professional—and complete both short-term and long-term practical training. Members of ICSI are recognized as highly qualified professionals who play a key role in ensuring compliance with laws and promoting sound corporate governance practices within Indian corporates. As per Section 2(51) of the Companies Act 2013, Company Secretaries are classified as Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) of a company, alongside roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Managing Director, Whole-time Director and Chief Financial Officer. Company Secretaries often serve as compliance officers, playing a crucial role in the efficient administration of the company and ensuring adherence to secretarial standards.