Compliance is a critical aspect of running a business in India, ensuring that companies adhere to various laws and regulations. This guide covers some of the key compliance requirements for businesses in India, along with the necessary legal documents.

Key Compliance Requirements

1. Tax Compliance
   • Goods and Services Tax (GST): Businesses must register for GST and file monthly, quarterly, and annual returns. They must also maintain proper records of sales, purchases, and input tax credits.
   • Income Tax: Companies must file annual income tax returns and pay advance tax as per the Income Tax Act, 1961. They must also comply with Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) requirements.
2. Labor Law Compliance
   • Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF): Companies with 20 or more employees must register for EPF and contribute to the fund. They must also file monthly returns and maintain records of contributions.
   • Employees’ State Insurance (ESI): Applicable to companies with 10 or more employees earning less than ₹21,000 per month. Employers must register for ESI, contribute to the fund, and file periodic returns.
   • Minimum Wages Act: Employers must pay at least the minimum wage as prescribed by the state government and maintain records of wage payments.
3. Corporate Compliance
   • Companies Act, 2013: Companies must comply with various provisions, including holding board meetings, filing annual returns, maintaining statutory registers, and appointing auditors.
   • Secretarial Compliance: Companies must maintain minutes of board meetings, general meetings, and other statutory records. They must also file necessary forms with the Registrar of Companies (RoC).
4. Environmental Compliance
   • Pollution Control: Businesses must obtain necessary permits from the Pollution Control Board and comply with environmental regulations related to air, water, and waste management.
5. Industry-Specific Compliance
   • Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): Food businesses must obtain FSSAI registration and comply with food safety standards.
   • Drug Control: Pharmaceutical companies must comply with regulations set by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).

Legal Requirements and Documents

For Tax Compliance:

• GST Registration Certificate
• PAN Card of the company
• Income Tax Returns
• TDS Certificates
• GST Returns

For Labor Law Compliance:

• EPF Registration Certificate
• ESI Registration Certificate
• Wage Register
• Attendance Register
• Muster Roll

For Corporate Compliance:

• Certificate of Incorporation
• Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Articles of Association (AOA)
• Minutes of Meetings
• Statutory Registers

For Environmental Compliance:

• Pollution Control Board Permits
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Reports
• Waste Management Records

For Industry-Specific Compliance:

• FSSAI License
• Drug Manufacturing License
• Quality Control Records

By adhering to these compliance requirements and maintaining the necessary legal documents, businesses can ensure smooth operations and avoid legal penalties in India