The role of Company Secretaries in the realm of Goods and Services Tax (GST) is crucial in ensuring smooth and compliant business operations.
Company Secretaries are highly knowledgeable professionals who possess expertise in interpreting laws, acts, statutes, and various legislations in India.
Governed by the Code of Conduct provided in the Company Secretaries Act of 1980, these professionals undergo extensive training, coaching, examinations, and continuing education programs to excel in their field.
A Comprehensive Curriculum
The curriculum of the Company Secretary Course encompasses a wide range of subjects, providing in-depth knowledge and expertise in key areas. These include Direct Taxes, Indirect Taxes, Accountancy, Corporate Laws, Financial Treasury, Company Law, Forex Management, and more. This diverse range of topics equips Company Secretaries with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of the GST regime.
Diversified Role of Company Secretaries in GST
Company Secretaries hold a diverse and well-defined role in the new GST regime. They can act as advisors and facilitators for businesses, offering invaluable insights and ensuring compliance with GST regulations. Their extensive knowledge of laws and excellent communication skills make them well-suited for providing comprehensive guidance to business entities.
Let’s explore the different types of services Company Secretaries can offer to their clients in the context of GST:
(i) Advisory Services or Strategic Advisor
Company Secretaries possess the ability to comprehensively interpret the GST law and provide guidance and advisory services to businesses. Their expertise in the field, coupled with their understanding of laws and regulations, allows them to offer valuable insights and strategies.
(ii) Tax Planning
With their deep understanding of the impact of laws and various alternatives, Company Secretaries are competent in assisting businesses with proper tax planning under GST. Their insights can help optimize tax structures and minimize potential liabilities.
(iii) Procedural Compliances
Procedural compliance plays a crucial role in the GST framework, encompassing tasks such as registration, filing of returns, tax payments, and assessments. As Compliance Officers under various other laws, Company Secretaries can extend their expertise to ensure compliance with GST regulations as well.
(iv) Book/Record Keeping
The introduction of GST necessitates meticulous record-keeping, including the systematic maintenance of input and input service credits. Company Secretaries possess the skills and knowledge required to handle these tasks effectively, ensuring accurate records and proper utilization of credits.
(v) Representation
Company Secretaries can provide representation services with confidence, given their practical exposure and experience in appearing before various competent authorities. They can effectively advocate for businesses, ensuring their interests are protected.
(vi) Appellate Work
Leveraging their legal acumen, Company Secretaries are well-suited to excel in appellate work related to GST. They can provide valuable services in handling appeals, ensuring effective representation and favorable outcomes for businesses.
Acknowledgement of Company Secretaries’ Role
Company Secretaries play a pivotal role not only in corporate management but also in practice. Their importance has been recognized by various State Governments, which have authorized Practicing Company Secretaries to conduct VAT Audits and appear as Authorized Representatives before the Appellate Authority. Moreover, the Securities Exchange Board of India recognizes Company Secretaries as auditors/internal auditors, and the Companies Act of 2013 acknowledges their role in conducting Secretarial Audits for prescribed classes of companies.
Driving Compliance and Facilitating Growth
To ensure effective administration of the new tax regime in India, it is crucial to have competent and equipped professionals who can facilitate regulatory
