Government of Maharashtra on March 24th 2025 has introduced the Maharashtra Private Placement Agencies (Regulation) Bill, 2025. The bill aims to streamline the operations of private placement agencies in the state, ensuring transparency and accountability in recruitment practices.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The newly introduced bill mandates that no private placement agency can operate within Maharashtra—or place candidates outside the state—without a valid registration certificate. This registration will be issued and regulated by a designated Registering Authority appointed by the state government.
However, an important exemption is provided for educational institutions conducting campus placements. These institutions are required to report their placement activities within 60 days of completion, ensuring that even campus recruitment remains transparent.
Registration and Compliance
The bill outlines that the registration certificates issued to private placement agencies will be valid for five years, with the option for renewal. These certificates will be non-transferable and subject to specific terms and conditions set by the authorities.
The legislation also clearly defines the responsibilities and duties of private placement agencies, ensuring that they adhere to ethical recruitment practices and maintain proper documentation.
Strict Penalties for Violations
To ensure strict compliance, the bill outlines stringent penalties for violations:
- For serious breaches of the Act, violators could face up to three years of imprisonment along with a fine of up to ₹1 lakh.
- Other violations may attract fines ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹23 lakh, depending on the severity of the breach.
Why This Matters
The introduction of this bill comes at a time when the private placement industry in Maharashtra is rapidly growing. With the increasing demand for recruitment services, the government aims to regulate the sector effectively, protect job seekers, and ensure that agencies operate with integrity and professionalism.