To enhance investor outreach, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), in collaboration with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has launched the “Niveshak Shivir” initiative. This program makes it easier for investors to reclaim their unclaimed dividends and shares.
What is “Niveshak Shivir”?
The Niveshak Shivir is a nationwide initiative aimed at simplifying the process of recovering unclaimed assets. IEPFA and SEBI have set up helpdesks across India to assist investors directly, ensuring a more straightforward experience without relying on intermediaries. “Niveshak Shivir” is a nationwide investor assistance program designed to:
- Promote financial awareness and responsible investing.
- Help investors reclaim unclaimed dividends and shares.
- Provide dedicated helpdesks in key cities for in-person support.
- Encourage direct communication between investors, companies, and RTAs.
- Reduce reliance on third-party intermediaries.
Key Features of the Niveshak Shivir Initiative
- Investor Assistance Helpdesks:
- In various cities, dedicated helpdesks will assist investors. These desks allow investors to interact directly with company representatives and Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTAs), streamlining the recovery process.
- Empowering Investors with Knowledge:
- The initiative focuses on educating investors. By understanding how to reclaim their unclaimed dividends and shares, investors will be better equipped to navigate the process.
- Reducing Reliance on Intermediaries:
- One of the key goals of this program is to reduce the role of intermediaries. Investors can now directly contact companies and RTAs, leading to a faster and more transparent process.
- Nationwide Rollout:
- The program will first launch in Mumbai and Ahmedabad later this month. It will gradually expand to other cities, where unclaimed assets are more common.
Key Takeaways for Investors
If you’re an investor who suspects that your dividends or shares have gone unclaimed, here’s what you should do:
For Shares in Demat Form:
- Contact the respective company directly if your shares are due for transfer to IEPFA.
For Shares in Physical Form:
- Use the IEPFA search facility: https://iepfa.gov.in/login
- If shares are already transferred to IEPFA:
- File Form IEPF-5 to initiate your claim.
- You may also contact the company’s Registrar and Transfer Agent (RTA) for assistance.
How to Reclaim Unclaimed Assets: A Step-by-Step Guide
Reclaiming unclaimed assets is now easier than ever. Follow these simple steps:
- For Dematerialized Shares:
- If you hold shares in dematerialized form, contact your company for support if the shares are due for transfer to IEPFA.
- For Physical Shares:
- For physical shares, visit the IEPFA website to check their status. If transferred to IEPFA, you can file a claim using Form IEPF-5. If you need assistance, contact the company’s Registrar and Transfer Agent (RTA).
- IEPFA Search Facility:
- IEPFA offers a search facility that allows you to check if your assets have been transferred. This tool helps you act quickly and avoid delays in reclaiming your assets.
Where Is Niveshak Shivir Happening?
The first “Niveshak Shivir” camps will be held in:
- Mumbai
- Ahmedabad
More cities will be added in the coming weeks based on the volume of unclaimed investor assets.
The Role of IEPFA in Promoting Investor Protection
The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, works to protect investor interests. Through programs like Niveshak Shivir, IEPFA educates investors and raises awareness about their rights. By fostering a transparent, investor-friendly ecosystem, the initiative helps ensure investors are equipped to safeguard their assets.
Why Is This Initiative Important?
Millions of investors in India have unclaimed shares and dividends. These assets often remain with companies or are transferred to IEPFA due to factors such as unclaimed dividends, address changes, or incomplete documentation. The Niveshak Shivir initiative aims to simplify the recovery process, helping investors reclaim their rightful assets.
The Niveshak Shivir initiative presents a practical solution to reclaim unclaimed dividends and shares. It minimizes intermediaries, enhances financial literacy, and improves transparency. Whether you hold shares in dematerialized or physical form, the helpdesks and online tools will guide you through the process efficiently.
Stay tuned for updates on the launch in your city and take advantage of this valuable opportunity to reclaim your unclaimed assets.
📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It is an initiative by IEPFA and SEBI to help investors reclaim unclaimed dividends and shares through local helpdesks and support centers.
Any investor with unclaimed shares or dividends—whether in physical or demat form—can benefit from Niveshak Shivir.
You can search your name or folio details on the IEPFA website: iepfa.gov.in/login
Contact the company’s RTA or investor support to take corrective action before the shares are transferred to IEPFA.
You must file Form IEPF-5 and submit documents to the company’s RTA to reclaim your shares.
Form IEPF-5 is available on the IEPFA official site: iepf.gov.in
The first sessions are in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, with more cities to be added soon.
You need Form IEPF-5, PAN, Aadhaar, cancelled cheque, indemnity bond, and other supporting documents depending on your case.
No. The entire process is free of cost. Beware of intermediaries charging illegal fees.
Visit the IEPFA portal at www.iepf.gov.in for support and instructions.