The Ministry of Corporate Affairs through notification dated 19th August, 2021 has issued the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Amendment Rules, 2021. The Amendment provides that an individual shall not be required to pass the online proficiency self-assessment test to be included in independent directors databank when he has served for a total period of not less than three years as on the date of inclusion of his name in the data bank in the pay scale of Director or equivalent or above in any Ministry or Department, of the Central Government or any State Government, and having experience in handling,—
(i) the matters relating to commerce, corporate affairs, finance, industry or public enterprises; or
(ii) the affairs related to Government companies or statutory corporations set up under an Act of Parliament or any State Act and carrying on commercial activities.”.
It is further provided that the following individuals, who are or have been, for at least ten years :—
(A) an advocate of a court; or
(B) in practice as a chartered accountant; or
(C) in practice as a cost accountant; or
(D) in practice as a company secretary,
shall not be required to pass the online proficiency self-assessment test.”.
