Compliance Calendar of a Public Limited Company

Introduction
A Public Limited Company in India is subject to a wide range of statutory and regulatory obligations under various laws, including the Companies Act, 2013, Income Tax Act, 1961, SEBI Regulations (for listed companies), and GST laws. Timely compliance is essential to ensure smooth functioning, avoid penalties, and maintain the company’s credibility with regulators and stakeholders. A structured compliance calendar helps the company stay on track and fulfill all legal responsibilities throughout the financial year. This article outlines the major compliance requirements and deadlines applicable to a Public Limited Company in India.

Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Public Limited Companies must hold an Annual General Meeting within six months from the end of the financial year, but not later than September 30 each year. For newly incorporated companies, the first AGM must be held within nine months from the end of the first financial year. The AGM involves approval of financial statements, declaration of dividends, appointment or reappointment of auditors, and presentation of the Board’s Report.

Board Meetings and Committee Meetings
As per the Companies Act, 2013, a Public Limited Company must hold a minimum of four Board meetings each year with a maximum gap of 120 days between two meetings. Listed companies must also conduct committee meetings such as the Audit Committee, Nomination and Remuneration Committee, and Stakeholders’ Relationship Committee in accordance with SEBI (LODR) Regulations.

Filing of Annual Returns (Form MGT-7)
Every Public Limited Company must file its Annual Return in Form MGT-7 within 60 days from the date of the AGM. This return includes information such as shareholding structure, details of directors, and other statutory disclosures for the financial year ending March 31.

Filing of Financial Statements (Form AOC-4)
The company must file its financial statements and Board’s Report in Form AOC-4 within 30 days of the AGM. This includes audited balance sheet, profit and loss statement, cash flow statement, and notes to accounts. Digital signatures and director certification are mandatory for submission.

Income Tax Return Filing (Form ITR-6)
The income tax return for Public Limited Companies must be filed by October 31 of the assessment year, following the end of the financial year. Companies required to undergo a tax audit under Section 44AB must complete the audit and file the tax audit report in Form 3CA and 3CD before this due date.

TDS Returns and Payment Due Dates
Public Limited Companies deducting tax at source must file quarterly TDS returns in the following timelines:

• Q1 (April–June): July 31
  
• Q2 (July–September): October 31
  
• Q3 (October–December): January 31
  
• Q4 (January–March): May 31
  TDS deducted must be deposited with the government by the 7th of the following month in which the deduction is made.
  

GST Returns (if applicable)
If a Public Limited Company is registered under GST, it must file:

• GSTR-1 (details of outward supplies) by the 11th of the next month
  
• GSTR-3B (summary return) by the 20th of the next month
  Annual return GSTR-9 and reconciliation statement GSTR-9C must be filed by December 31 of the following financial year.
  

Other Event-Based Compliances
Certain corporate actions such as allotment of shares, resignation or appointment of directors, increase in authorized capital, or change in registered office require event-based filings. Forms such as PAS-3, DIR-12, SH-7, and INC-22 must be filed with the Registrar of Companies within specified deadlines ranging from 15 to 30 days of the event.

Conclusion
The compliance calendar of a Public Limited Company is both extensive and time-sensitive, covering corporate governance, taxation, statutory filings, and regulatory disclosures. Failure to meet any of these obligations can result in penalties, legal proceedings, or reputational damage. A well-maintained compliance schedule supported by a dedicated legal or secretarial team helps ensure that the company adheres to all statutory timelines and operates smoothly within the legal framework. Timely compliance also enhances stakeholder confidence and promotes long-term sustainability.

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