Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a catalyst for positive societal change in India. Education, a cornerstone of progress, has become a prime focus for CSR initiatives. Over the years, CSR contributions have significantly enhanced the educational landscape, fostering infrastructure development, providing scholarships, and promoting digital literacy, among other crucial interventions.

Introduction

A Permanent Account Number (PAN) card, issued by India's Income Tax Department, is vital for tax compliance and evasion prevention. Tracking your PAN application status ensures prompt issue resolution and smooth card receipt. This guide explores easy tracking methods for a seamless experience.

Understanding the PAN Card

Over the past decade, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in India has undergone a significant transformation, particularly in regional areas. The shift from voluntary philanthropy to a mandated, structured effort has revolutionized how companies contribute to social development. CSR has now become a crucial element of corporate strategy, with a focus on sustainability, impact, and long-term change.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in India has evolved, with companies now mandated to allocate profits to social causes. In 2014, India became the first country to legally mandate CSR spending under Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013.  This requires businesses exceeding specific financial criteria to allocate 2% of their average net profits to CSR initiatives.

In India, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) plays a crucial role in addressing various socio-economic challenges, from education and healthcare to environmental sustainability. Despite mandates for certain companies to allocate a portion of their profits to CSR, a significant portion of these funds often remains unspent. 

The 2024 Union Budget introduced NPS Vatsalya, a pension plan for minors, available nationwide. This article compares NPS Vatsalya with traditional savings options like Mutual Funds and the Public Provident Fund (PPF) to help parents choose the best plan for their child.

In today’s fast-paced world of financial planning, one of the most valuable gifts parents can give their children is the habit of saving early. As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman aptly said in her 2024 Union Budget speech, “Building the foundation of financial security begins in childhood.” With the introduction of NPS Vatsalya, a pension scheme specifically designed for minors, parents can establish a secure foundation even before their children reach adulthood.

1. What should I do if I have a complaint or grievance?

Lodge your grievance online via the Central Grievance Management System (CGMS) accessible through your NPS account.  Intermediaries must resolve complaints within 30 days.  If unsatisfied, escalate the grievance following the prescribed escalation matrix.  Contact the relevant entities based on your specific concern, starting with the primary service provider and progressing to PFRDA as needed.

1. When can I withdraw money from my NPS account?

• Partial Withdrawal: After 3 years, up to 25% of your contributions for specific reasons (illness, children's education/marriage, buying property, starting a business) up to 3 times.
• Premature Withdrawal: After 5 years (or 3 years if joined after 60), up to 20% lump sum, 80% annuity.