Rights and Duties of Partners in a Partnership Firm

May 29, 2025
Private Limited Company vs. Limited Liability Partnerships

A partnership firm is one of the most widely adopted business models in India, particularly among startups, family-run enterprises, and small to medium-sized businesses. It’s a simple, flexible structure that allows two or more individuals with a shared vision to run a business and earn profits collectively.

Unlike companies, partnership firms operate with fewer regulatory burdens, making them a preferred choice for those looking to collaborate with trusted associates. This business model is legally governed by the Indian Partnership Act, 1932, which lays down clear guidelines regarding the formation, functioning, rights, and obligations of partners within a firm.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the key rights, duties, and responsibilities of partners, explain how partnership property is treated, and examine how changes in firm structure affect partner roles.

Table of Contents

Rights of a Partner

Every partner in a firm has certain rights that are either explicitly stated in the partnership agreement or implied under the Indian Partnership Act, 1932. These rights ensure fairness and balance in the relationship among partners.

1. Right to Participate

Each partner has the right to take part in the daily operations and decision-making of the business unless otherwise agreed. This ensures collective control over the firm’s direction.

2. Right to Access Books

Partners can inspect and copy the books of account and other official records of the firm at any time. Transparency in record-keeping promotes mutual trust.

3. Right to Share Profits

Unless agreed otherwise, profits and losses are shared equally among the partners. The exact ratio can be decided in the partnership deed.

4. Right to Be Indemnified

Partners have the right to be reimbursed for any expenses or liabilities they personally incur while conducting business on behalf of the firm.

5. Right to Interest on Capital and Loans

If a partner contributes extra capital or gives a loan to the firm, they are entitled to interest as specified in the partnership agreement.

6. Right to stop the admission of a new partner

Every existing partner in a partnership firm has the right to oppose the admission of a new partner. A new partner cannot be added without the unanimous consent of all current partners.

7. Right to Dissolve the Firm

A partner may initiate the dissolution of the firm with the consent of other partners or as per the terms laid down in the agreement or the Act.

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Duties of a Partner

With rights come responsibilities. Each partner is expected to uphold the values of the firm and contribute to its smooth functioning.

1. General Duties of Partners

Partners are legally obligated to manage and operate the business of the partnership firm. Their core responsibilities include the following:

  • A partner must conduct the business in a manner that serves the greatest common benefit of the firm.
  • Every partner is expected to act with honesty and integrity toward the other partners.
  • A partner must provide accurate accounts and share all relevant information concerning the firm with fellow partners or their legal representatives.

2. Duty of Good Faith

Partners must act honestly and in good faith for the benefit of the firm and one another. Personal gains at the expense of the firm are strictly prohibited.

If a partner of a partnership firm earns any profit for personal gain, whether through a firm-related transaction, by using the firm’s property, business connections, or its name, they are obligated to disclose and return that profit to the firm.

3. Duty Not to Compete

A partner must not run a competing business or take actions that conflict with the interests of the firm.

4. Duty to Use Property Fairly

Partners should not use partnership property for personal benefit or unauthorised purposes.

A partner in a partnership firm is required to compensate the firm for any loss or damage caused by their willful negligence in conducting the firm’s business.

Related Read: Difference Between Company and Partnership

Partnership Property

Partnership property refers to all assets brought into the firm or acquired for its business. This includes:

  • Tangible assets like land, buildings, and equipment
  • Intangible assets like goodwill and intellectual property
  • Profits and savings generated through the business

Ownership of this property is jointly held by all partners and used solely for the firm’s operations unless the partnership agreement specifies otherwise.

Application of Property of the Firm

The assets of the partnership are first used to settle the firm’s obligations. Here’s the typical order of application:

  1. Payment of debts and liabilities of the firm
  2. Repayment of partner loans or advances
  3. Return of capital contributions to partners
  4. Distribution of remaining profits among the partners as per the agreed ratio

This structure ensures fairness and legal compliance during profit sharing or dissolution.

Duties and Rights of Partners After Partnership Structure Changes

When a partnership undergoes changes like admitting a new partner, retiring an old one, or reconstituting the firm, some rights and duties get modified:

  • New partners gain the same rights but are not liable for actions before their admission unless they agree.
  • Retiring partners must settle dues and may remain liable for prior obligations unless a public notice of retirement is issued.
  • Reconstituted firms require updates in the partnership deed, and all partners must consent to the new terms.

Related Read: Addition and Removal of Partners in Partnership Firm

Conclusion

Partnerships thrive when every partner fully understands that their individual rights come with corresponding duties toward the firm and their fellow partners. This mutual respect and sense of responsibility help to reduce misunderstandings and conflicts that can disrupt business operations.

By embracing both their privileges and obligations, partners can create an environment of trust, cooperation, and transparency. This culture acts like fertile soil where business ideas can grow, adapt, and flourish.

Over time, such partnerships are better positioned to attract investments, scale operations, and build a strong brand presence in the market, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Limited Liability Partnership
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rights and duties of a nominal partner?

A Nominal Partner is someone who allows their name to be used in the partnership but does not have any real interest or liability in the firm’s business.

Rights:

  • Right to participate in the management or share profits (unless otherwise agreed).
  • Right to inspect books or take part in decision-making.

Duties:

  • Must act honestly and not mislead third parties by lending their name.
  • Can be held liable to third parties if the firm incurs debts or obligations using their name, even though they do not participate in management.

What are the four types of partnerships?

  1. General Partnership: All partners share equal responsibility and liability.
  2. Limited Partnership (LP): Includes both general partners (with unlimited liability) and limited partners (liability limited to their investment).
  3. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Partners have limited liability, and the firm has a separate legal identity.
  4. Joint Venture: A partnership for a specific project or period, usually temporary.

What are the rights of a new partner in a firm?

A new partner, once admitted, has the following rights:

  • Right to participate in the management of the firm.
  • Right to share in the profits and losses of the firm from the date of joining.
  • Right to access and inspect the firm’s books of account.
  • Right to be indemnified for any expenses or liabilities incurred on behalf of the firm before admission.
  • Right to seek dissolution or retirement based on partnership terms.

What are the 5 levels of partnership?

The concept of "levels" of partnership can vary, but commonly, these levels are considered in professional or business partnerships:

  • Junior Partner: Entry-level partner with limited responsibilities and profit share.
  • Senior Partner: Partner with significant decision-making authority and larger profit share.
  • Managing Partner: Responsible for day-to-day management of the firm.
  • Equity Partner: Partner with an ownership stake and rights to profit sharing.
  • Non-equity Partner: Partner who may have decision-making authority but does not share profits.

What is the difference between LLP and LP?

Feature Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Limited Partnership (LP)
Legal Status Separate legal entity from partners Not a separate legal entity
Liability Limited liability for all partners General partners have unlimited liability; limited partners have limited liability
Management All partners can manage Only general partners manage; limited partners are passive
Registration & Compliance Registered under the LLP Act Registered under the Partnership Act

What is the income tax rate for AOP?

AOP (Association of Persons) is taxed as a separate entity under Indian Income Tax law. The tax rate for an AOP (not being a co-operative society) is generally as follows:

Under the New Tax Regime:

Income Tax Slab Income Tax Rate Surcharge
Up to ₹ 3,00,000 Nil Nil
₹ 3,00,001 – ₹ 7,00,000 5% above ₹ 3,00,000 Nil
₹ 7,00,001 – ₹ 10,00,000 ₹ 20,000 + 10% above ₹ 7,00,000 Nil
₹ 10,00,001 – ₹ 12,00,000 ₹ 50,000 + 15% above ₹ 10,00,000 Nil
₹ 12,00,001 – ₹ 15,00,000 ₹ 80,000 + 20% above ₹ 12,00,000 Nil
₹ 15,00,001– ₹ 50,00,000 ₹ 1,40,000 + 30% above ₹ 15,00,000 Nil
₹ 50,00,001– ₹ 100,00,000 ₹ 1,40,000 + 30% above ₹ 15,00,000 10%
₹ 100,00,001– ₹ 200,00,000 ₹ 1,40,000 + 30% above ₹ 15,00,000 15%
Above ₹ ₹ 200,00,001 ₹ 1,40,000 + 30% above ₹ 15,00,000 25%

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Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) for Startups | Razorpay Rize

Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) for Startups | Razorpay Rize

The PMMY scheme launched in 2015 aims to provide MUDRA Loans to small and micro enterprises through various commercial banks, RRBs, SFBs, NBFCs, and Cooperative Banks.

Description Who is it for? Benefits
To loan funds in the form of MUDRA for promoting MSMEs For small-scale businesses & MSMEs Business loans ranging from Rs.50,000 to Rs.10 lakh can be applied under this scheme, which is divided into three categories: Sishu, Kishor, and Tarun.

The loan range may vary depending on growth, development, and funding needs. The MUDRA loan can be categorized into

  • Sishu - Up to Rs. 50,000
  • Kishore - Rs. 50,000 to 5 Lakh
  • Tarun - Rs. 5 Lakh to 10 Lakh
The essentials of US Incorporations - documents, eligibility and process.

Table of Contents

Eligibility

  • Must have business plans for service sector activities or trading or manufacturing activities.
  • In the case of an individual applicant, the age range must be between 18 and 65 years.
  • Must be a non-corporate and non-farm small and micro-enterprise.

Documents Required for the PMMY Scheme

  • Proof of identity
    Self-attested copy of Voter's ID card/Driving Licence/PAN Card/AadhaarCard/Passport/Photo IDs issued by Govt. authority etc.
  • Proof of Residence
    Recent telephone bill/electricity bill/property tax receipt (not older than 2 months) / Voter's ID card / Aadhaar Card / Passport of Individual / Proprietor/Partners/Bank passbook or latest account statement duly attested by Bank officials/Domicile certificate/certificate issued by Govt. authority/Local panchayat/Municipality etc.
  • Applicant's Recent Photograph (2 copies) 6 months or older.
  • Proof of Identity/Address of the Business
    Copies of relevant licenses/registration certificates/other documents pertaining to the ownership, identity, and address of the business unit, if any

Other relevant documents, like proof of category, quotation, etc., are also required during the application process.

Application procedure

If you are eligible, applying for a MUDRA loan is relatively easy and can be done both online & offline.

Online

  • Visit the official website of the PMMY-authorized financial institution from which you wish to avail of the Mudra loan.
  • Download the relevant form depending on the type of loan (Sishu, Kishore, and Tarun).
  • Fill out all the personal and business details and then “Submit” the form.
  • Once received, the application form is verified and processed accordingly. Following the verification, the loan amount is approved and disbursed.
  • The loan amount can be withdrawn with the help of a MUDRA card issued after the loan approval.
Application procedure

Offline

  • Visit a PMMY-authorized bank or NBFC of your choice.
  • Fill out the MUDRA loan application form with the required details.
  • Submit the application form with a self-written business plan and other documents to substantiate those details.
  • After successful document verification, the loan will get approved, and the desired amount will be credited.
  • Must have the required infrastructure and targeted acceleration programs.

Benefits of the PMMY Scheme

  • MUDRA loans can be taken for small amounts at affordable interest rates; also, the credit guarantee is borne by the Government.
  • This scheme could be availed without any collateral or security.
  • The Mudra loan scheme in collaboration with the “Make In India” campaign, helps in fostering innovation, facilitating investment, and improving skill development.
  • Women Borrowers can avail this scheme with discounted interest rates.
  • Relief of up to 1500 Crore will be provided to the Borrowers as Interest Subsidy under the Mudra Shishu Category.

Achievements Under PMMY Scheme

Here’s a table to highlight the achievements under the PMMY scheme in the last 3 years.

No. of PMMY loans sanctioned Amount sanctioned
FY 23–24 66777013 INR 541012.86 Crores
FY 22–23 62310598 INR 456537.98 Crores
FY 21–22 53795526 INR 339110.35 Crores

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for the PMMY Scheme?

Individuals, including entrepreneurs, micro-enterprises, and small businesses in the non-corporate, non-farm sector, are eligible to apply for loans under the PMMY Scheme.

Is there any collateral required for loans under the PMMY Scheme?

Loans under the PMMY Scheme are collateral-free, meaning borrowers do not need to provide any security or collateral to avail of the loans, making them accessible to a wider segment of the population.

Can existing businesses apply for loans under the PMMY Scheme, or is it only for new startups?

The PMMY Scheme is open to both existing businesses and new startups. As long as the business falls under the micro-enterprise or small business category and meets the eligibility criteria, it can apply for a loan under the scheme.

What is the role of the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) in implementing the PMMY Scheme?

The Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) acts as the nodal agency for the implementation of the PMMY Scheme. It works in collaboration with various financial institutions to ensure the effective disbursal of loans and monitoring of the scheme's progress.

Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs): Business Model

Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs): Business Model

India’s banking sector often grapples with the challenge of rising non-performing assets (NPAs). These stressed loans lock up capital, reduce profitability, and weaken the overall financial system. To address this, Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) were introduced as a mechanism to manage and recover bad loans.

ARCs essentially act as financial intermediaries. They acquire NPAs from banks and financial institutions, clean up their balance sheets, and work towards reviving the distressed assets. In doing so, ARCs reduce the burden on banks and create room for fresh credit flow into the economy.

But how do ARCs actually function? What’s their business model? And what challenges do they face in India’s evolving financial landscape? Let’s break it down.

Table of Contents

What is an Asset Reconstruction Company?

An Asset Reconstruction Company (ARC) is a specialised financial institution that buys NPAs or stressed assets from banks and other lenders. By transferring these assets to ARCs, banks can focus on fresh lending and growth, while ARCs work to recover value from distressed accounts.

The importance of ARCs lies in their ability to:

  • Clean up bank balance sheets.
  • Strengthen financial stability.
  • Contribute to economic growth by reviving stressed businesses.

In simple terms, ARCs buy bad loans from banks and try to recover as much as possible, either by reviving the business or liquidating its assets.

Background of Asset Reconstruction Companies in India

The Narasimham Committee first recommended ARCs in India in 1998, recognising the growing problem of NPAs in the banking system. This led to the enactment of the SARFAESI Act, 2002 (Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act), which provided the legal foundation for ARCs.

Key points about ARCs in India:

  • ARCs must register with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under Section 3 of the SARFAESI Act.
  • They primarily acquire secured NPAs from banks and financial institutions.
  • Their role includes asset reconstruction and securitisation, simplifying lender balance sheets.

The Evolution of ARCs

Over the years, ARCs have evolved as a vital solution to the rising NPAs that hamper the profitability and liquidity of banks. By purchasing and managing these stressed assets, ARCs not only reduce risk exposure for banks but also:

  • Create investment opportunities in the distressed debt market.
  • Provide a structured framework for debt recovery.
  • Support economic stability by reviving potentially viable businesses.

How Does ARC Work?

The ARC business model typically involves the following steps:

  1. Acquisition of Assets: ARCs purchase NPAs from banks, usually at a discount, either in cash or through the issuance of Security Receipts (SRs) to the banks.

  2. Management of Assets: Once acquired, ARCs restructure, reschedule, or attempt to revive the borrower’s operations.

  3. Recovery Mechanisms: Recovery can happen via settlement with borrowers, enforcing collateral, selling assets, or bringing in new investors.

  4. Return on Investment: ARCs earn returns by successfully recovering dues and distributing proceeds to banks or SR holders.

Note: ARCs must maintain a minimum Net Owned Fund (NOF) of ₹100 crore to operate legally.

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The Core of the ARC Business Model

The ARC business model is built on three core pillars:

  1. Acquisition: Buying NPAs at a discounted value from banks and financial institutions.
  2. Restructuring: Developing strategies to revive stressed businesses, including debt restructuring or converting debt into equity.
  3. Recovery: Enforcing security interests, liquidating assets, or monetising businesses to recover maximum value.

These pillars determine the sustainability and profitability of ARCs.

Process of Asset Reconstruction by ARCs

The process of asset reconstruction typically involves:

  • Management takeover of the borrower’s business.
  • Sale or lease of part or entire business.
  • Debt rescheduling to provide repayment flexibility.
  • Enforcing security by selling collateral.
  • Possession of secured assets for liquidation.
  • Conversion of debt into equity, enabling ARCs to hold a stake in the borrower company.

This multi-step process maximises recovery and ensures balance sheet clean-up for lenders.

What are the Services Provided by Asset Reconstruction Companies?

ARCs provide a wide range of services, including:

  • Acquisition and management of distressed assets.
  • Debt restructuring and settlement.
  • Recovery and asset monetisation.
  • Investor management through security receipts.
  • Advisory services for stressed asset management.

While they operate under the SARFAESI Act, 2002 and RBI guidelines, ARCs must adapt to challenges like economic downturns, legal delays, and shifting regulations. Technology adoption is also becoming critical in driving recovery efficiency and risk management.

Recent Changes in ARC Regulations by RBI

The RBI has introduced significant regulatory reforms to strengthen governance in the ARC sector. Recent updates include:

  • Stronger corporate governance with mandatory independent directors.
  • Enhanced transparency through periodic performance disclosures.
  • Revised investment norms for security receipts (SRs), encouraging higher skin-in-the-game from ARCs.

Challenges Faced by ARCs

While ARCs play a vital role, they face multiple hurdles:

  • Legal and Judicial Delays: Court proceedings and enforcement under SARFAESI or IBC can be time-consuming.
  • Regulatory Changes: Frequent shifts in RBI and government policies impact operations.
  • Capital Requirements: ARCs often struggle with limited capital for large NPA acquisitions.
  • Economic Uncertainty: Market downturns can reduce asset valuation and recovery potential.

Best Practices for Aspiring ARCs

For ARCs to thrive, the following best practices are essential:

  • Build a robust risk management framework.
  • Continuously innovate restructuring strategies.
  • Leverage technology and analytics for recovery.
  • Develop strong relationships with regulators and stakeholders.
  • Invest in training and upskilling teams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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  • Service-based businesses
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1,499 + Govt. Fee
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  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
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Limited Liability Partnership
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1,499 + Govt. Fee
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  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum fund for ARC?

To set up an Asset Reconstruction Company in India, the minimum Net Owned Fund (NOF) requirement is ₹300 crore (as per RBI guidelines, updated in 2022).

What is the difference between a bad bank and an asset reconstruction company?

While both focus on resolving stressed assets, they are not the same:

  • Bad Bank: A government-backed entity that consolidates bad loans from various banks. It doesn’t necessarily focus on recovery, but rather on holding and restructuring them to reduce immediate pressure on banks.
  • ARC: A specialised financial institution that buys bad loans from banks at a discount and actively works on recovering the dues through restructuring, settlements, or asset sales.

In short, bad banks act as repositories, while ARCs focus on active resolution and recovery.

Who can fund an ARC?

Funding for ARCs typically comes from:

  • Banks and financial institutions (may also hold stakes in ARCs)
  • Private equity firms and investors looking to enter the distressed assets market
  • Foreign investors, subject to RBI and FDI guidelines

Sponsors, who must hold at least 51% ownership as per regulations

What strategies do ARCs use to recover debts?

ARCs deploy multiple recovery strategies, such as:

  • Restructuring loans to make repayment more manageable for borrowers
  • Taking over the management of stressed companies to revive operations
  • One-time settlements (OTS) with borrowers at negotiated terms
  • Asset sales (selling collateral like property, land, or machinery)
  • Legal proceedings under the SARFAESI Act to enforce security interests

How does the SARFAESI Act support asset reconstruction?

The SARFAESI Act, 2002, is the backbone of ARC operations. It gives ARCs the power to:

  • Enforce security interests without going through lengthy court processes
  • Take possession of secured assets of defaulting borrowers
  • Sell, lease, or manage those assets to recover dues
  • Empower banks and ARCs to speed up the resolution of bad loans

Sarthak Goyal

Sarthak Goyal is a Chartered Accountant with 10+ years of experience in business process consulting, internal audits, risk management, and Virtual CFO services. He cleared his CA at 21, began his career in a PSU, and went on to establish a successful ₹8 Cr+ e-commerce venture.

He has since advised ₹200–1000 Cr+ companies on streamlining operations, setting up audit frameworks, and financial monitoring. A community builder for finance professionals and an amateur writer, Sarthak blends deep finance expertise with an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for continuous learning.

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Minimum Paid-Up Capital for Private Limited Company

Minimum Paid-Up Capital for Private Limited Company

The concept of "Minimum Paid Up Capital" is key to understanding how a private limited company is financially structured. In simple terms, paid-up capital is the money that a company receives from its shareholders in exchange for ownership (shares). 

In most cases, in India, there’s no fixed minimum paid-up capital for private limited companies. Even though it’s not a legal requirement to have a high paid-up capital, having a reasonable amount can make the company appear more financially sound, which could be crucial for attracting investors or lenders down the road.

Table of Contents

Eligibility Criteria for Private Limited Company Registration in India

  1. Number of Directors

A private limited company must have at least two directors. The directors can be Indian citizens, and one of them must be a resident of India.

  1. Shareholders

A minimum of two shareholders is required to register a private limited company. Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities, with a maximum of 200 shareholders allowed.

  1. Citizenship Requirements

While directors must be Indian citizens, shareholders can be from any nationality. The company must have at least one Indian director to ensure it meets the statutory requirements.

  1. No Minimum Capital Requirement

Unlike earlier regulations that prescribed a minimum paid-up capital, the current rules under the Companies Act of 2013 do not mandate a minimum paid-up capital for private limited companies. Companies are free to decide on a capital structure according to their requirements.

Purpose of an Authorised Capital

Authorised capital is the financial ceiling within which a company can issue shares to its investors. It is the maximum amount of capital a company is permitted to raise by issuing shares, as stated in its Memorandum of Association (MOA)

The private limited company;s authorised capital provides clarity on the company's financial structure, preventing any future confusion over the number of shares it can issue and the value it represents.

Salient Features of an Authorised Capital 

The defining features of authorised capital include:

  • Fixed Limit: The company cannot issue shares beyond this limit without altering the MOA.
  • Inflexibility: Authorised capital is typically set at the time of company registration and can only be changed by passing a special resolution and amending the MOA.
  • Not Necessarily Paid: Authorised capital is not the actual amount received by the company; it’s simply the potential limit for share issuance.

Understanding authorised capital is essential because it affects how companies structure their finances and plan for future growth.

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Significance of Minimum Paid-Up Capital for Private Limited Company

The minimum paid-up capital plays a critical role in ensuring that the company has sufficient funds to carry out its initial operations and that it has a solid financial standing. While India no longer imposes a minimum requirement, the paid-up capital has important practical implications for a business.

  • Debt Reliance vs. Equity Investment: A company’s paid-up capital affects how much debt it can take on and the level of equity investment it can seek from external investors.
  • Growth Potential: A higher paid-up capital might signal stronger financial health, enabling better growth prospects, as it indicates the company has substantial backing.
  • Market Health Indicator: Paid-up capital can serve as a reflection of market confidence and can influence the company’s ability to attract investments.
  • Equity vs. Debt: While equity involves selling shares to raise capital, which gives shareholders ownership stakes and voting rights, debt involves borrowing funds which must be repaid with interest but does not dilute ownership.

Different Types of Capitals for Private Limited Companies

A private limited company can have different types of capital, including:

  • Issued Capital: The total value of the shares issued to shareholders.
  • Subscribed Capital: The portion of issued capital that shareholders agree to purchase.
  • Called Up Capital: The portion of subscribed capital that the company demands from shareholders at a given time.
  • Paid-up Capital: The amount shareholders have actually paid for their shares.
  • Uncalled Capital: The part of subscribed capital that the company has not yet demanded.
  • Reserve Capital: A portion of the company’s capital that is reserved for specific uses and cannot be called upon unless approved.
  • Authorised Capital: The maximum capital a company is authorised to raise through the issuance of shares. It sets the upper limit for the company’s equity base.

Each of these capital categories plays a significant role in structuring a company's equity and determining its financial health.

Authorised Capital Differs from Paid-Up Capital

There is often confusion between authorised capital and paid-up capital. Here’s a detailed comparison of authorised capital vs. paid-up capital:

Aspect Authorised Capital Paid-up Capital
Definition The maximum amount of share capital a company is legally allowed to issue. The actual amount of share capital that shareholders have paid to the company.
Requirement for Business Not necessarily issued in full; acts as a cap. For operational expenses and compliance; must be reflected in company accounts.
Modification Can be increased by altering the MOA and passing a special resolution. Can only increase if the company issues additional shares and shareholders pay for them.
Example If authorised capital is ₹10,00,000, the company cannot issue shares beyond this amount. If out of ₹10,00,000 authorised, ₹5,00,000 is issued and paid by shareholders, the paid-up capital is ₹5,00,000.

While authorised capital sets the upper limit, paid-up capital reflects the actual funds available for business use.

Various Sources of Paid-Up Capital for a Private Limited Company

Paid-up capital can be sourced from various methods:

  • Par Value of the Shares: The nominal value assigned to each share, typically very low.
  • Premium/Discount Value of the Stock: Shares may be issued at a premium (above the par value) or at a discount (below the par value).
  • Premium Shares: Shares issued at a price higher than their par value, with the difference considered as premium capital.
  • Discounted Shares: Shares issued below their par value, which may be used as an incentive for investment.

Each of these methods impacts the financial structure of the company and can influence investor interest and company growth.

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What is the Requirement of Minimum Paid Up Capital for a Private Limited Company?

Currently, the Companies Act of 2013 does not specify a minimum paid-up capital requirement for private limited companies. This change has provided greater flexibility for entrepreneurs to start businesses without the need to meet strict capital requirements. 

However, it remains crucial to set the minimum paid-up capital for private limited companies that reflects the company’s business model and operational needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there is no mandatory minimum paid-up capital requirement for a private limited company in India, it remains a critical element of the company’s financial structure.

For entrepreneurs and startups, having a well-thought-out capital structure sends a strong signal to stakeholders, such as investors, banks, and potential business partners, about your financial stability and commitment. It demonstrates that your business has the resources to meet its obligations, handle unexpected challenges, and seize new opportunities. 

This is particularly important in building market credibility, attracting investors, and maintaining trust with suppliers and customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum turnover for a Pvt Ltd company?

There is no minimum turnover requirement for a private limited company in India. A company can operate with zero turnover as long as it complies with regulatory requirements, such as filing annual returns, paying applicable taxes, and maintaining statutory records.

What is the cost of running a Private Limited Company?

The cost of running a private limited company in India varies depending on factors such as compliance, taxation, and operational expenses. On average, the annual costs include:

  • Compliance Costs
  • Professional Fees
  • Other Costs

Can a single person own a Pvt Ltd?

No, a private limited company requires a minimum of two members (shareholders) and two directors. However, one individual can fulfil both roles, while the second shareholder can own a single share, such as a family member or close associate. For businesses looking for sole ownership, One Person Company (OPC) might be a better alternative.

Which is better, an LLP or a company?

The choice between an LLP (Limited Liability Partnership) and a private limited company depends on your business needs:

Private Limited Company LLP
Ownership Shareholders own the company. Partners own the LLP.
Compliance Higher compliance requirements and costs. Lesser compliance and cost-efficient.
Liability Limited to the extent of shares held. Limited to the partner’s agreed contribution.
Fundraising Potential Better suited for raising funds through equity. Not ideal for external investments.

Choose a private limited company for startups seeking funding or scalability and LLP for smaller businesses or professional services.

Can I buy a property in a Pvt Ltd company?

Yes, a private limited company can purchase property in its name. This includes commercial, residential, or industrial properties, which can be used for business operations or as investments. However, the purchase should align with the company’s objectives as stated in its Memorandum of Association (MOA).

What is the minimum paid-up capital of a private Ltd company?

As per the Company Act, there is no mandatory minimum paid-up capital requirement for a private limited company in India. Companies can start with any nominal amount of paid-up capital, depending on their operational needs.

What is paid-up capital for a private company?

Paid-up capital refers to the amount of money that shareholders have invested in the company by purchasing its shares. It is the actual capital received by the company from its shareholders. For example, if a company issues shares worth ₹10 each and 1,000 shares are subscribed and fully paid, the paid-up capital is ₹10,000. 

What is Authorised capital in a private limited company?

Authorised capital is the maximum amount of share capital that a company is authorised to issue to its shareholders, as stated in its Memorandum of Association (MOA). For example, if the authorised capital is ₹1 lakh, the company cannot issue shares beyond this limit without amending the MOA. 

Nipun Jain

Nipun Jain is a seasoned startup leader with 13+ years of experience across zero-to-one journeys, leading enterprise sales, partnerships, and strategy at high-growth startups. He currently heads Razorpay Rize, where he's building India's most loved startup enablement program and launched Rize Incorporation to simplify company registration for founders.

Previously, he founded Natty Niños and scaled it before exiting in 2021, then led enterprise growth at Pickrr Technologies, contributing to its $200M acquisition by Shiprocket. A builder at heart, Nipun loves numbers, stories and simplifying complex processes.

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