The Hindu Business Line : Limited Liability Bill to be replaced

New Delhi, May 1 The Cabinet on Thursday gave its nod for introduction of a Limited Liability Partnership Bill, 2008 in Parliament by replacing the Limited Liability Partnership Bill, 2006. The proposed Bill would facilitate creation of another corporate structure which would further enable growth of the economy, the Finance Minister, Mr P Chidambaram, told newspersons after the Cabinet meeting.

The LLP structure is aimed at giving a boost to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and services sector firms. It would also help Indian professionals who are providing accountancy and legal services globally, encourage entrepreneurship and take advantage of emerging opportunities in science and technology.

The Corporate Affairs Ministry had obtained Cabinet nod in December 2006 for the LLP Bill of 2006 and introduced it in Rajya Sabha on December 15, 2006. It was later referred to the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance for examination and report. The committee submitted its report to both the Houses on November 27, 2006 recommending some changes along with some suggestions.

Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs: The Cabinet also gave its approval for establishment of Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs with an outlay of Rs 211 crore in the Eleventh Plan. The institute would provide a think-tank, capacity building and service delivery support in various initiatives being undertaken by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

Amendment to Employees’ State Insurance Act: The Cabinet gave its nod to amend the Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948. The Bill will be introduced in Parliament during the Budget session. The amendment to the Act will not only result in optimum utilisation of the existing infrastructure but will also augment funds of the ESI Corporation. This will also help in implementing other schemes for workforce in different sectors in addition to the beneficiaries covered under the present ESI scheme.

India’s membership of IOM: The Cabinet gave its approval to obtain full membership of International Organisation for Migration (IOM). India’s membership of IOM will enable it to engage more actively with this inter-governmental organisation dealing with the issue of migration in areas of interest, particularly those relating to improving conditions for Indian workers abroad.