MCA Extends Timeline for Holding AGMs and EGMs Through Video Conferencing Until September 2025

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has issued a significant update regarding the conduct of Annual General Meetings (AGMs) and Extraordinary General Meetings (EGMs) via Video Conferencing (VC) or Other Audio Visual Means (OAVM). 

Extension of Timeline for holding AGM through VC or OAVM 

Vide General Circular no. 09/2024 dated September 19, 2024, the MCA has extended the timeline for companies to conduct AGMs due in the years 2024 and 2025 via VC or OAVM, allowing such meetings to be held virtually until 30th September 2025. This decision follows earlier notifications including Circular No. 20/2020, No. 02/2022, No. 10/2022, and No. 09/2023, wherein similar provisions were granted due to the global shift toward digital means of communication during the pandemic.

No Extension of Statutory Deadline for holding AGM

However, the MCA has clarified that this extension for virtual meetings should not be interpreted as an extension of the statutory timeline for holding AGMs under the Companies Act, 2013. Companies that fail to meet the legal deadlines for AGMs will still face penalties and legal consequences under the relevant provisions of the Act.

Conduct of EGMs Through VC/OAVM 

In addition to AGMs, the MCA has also extended the provision for conducting EGMs through VC or OAVM or passing resolutions via postal ballots, in line with General Circular No. 11/2020, No. 03/2022, No. 11/2022, and No. 09/2023. This provision has also been extended until 30th September 2025, allowing companies flexibility in conducting business remotely. All other requirements as outlined in these circulars remain unchanged.

Conclusion

This extension is to allow Companies to use the digital platforms to hold the AGM / EGM until September 30, 2025. However, companies must remain mindful of statutory deadlines to avoid legal repercussions. This update brings relief to many corporations by continuing to offer a digital option for meetings, supporting smoother compliance and operational efficiency.