Unclaimed dividends: SEBI launches special initiative to empower investors

The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), operating under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, in partnership with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), kicked off the inaugural session of the Niveshak Shivir pilot program in Pune on Sunday. 

This initiative reinforces IEPFA’s commitment to enhancing financial awareness and empowering individuals with essential investment knowledge. The event represented a key milestone in fostering direct interaction with investors while also focusing on resolving pending financial claims.

A special investor guide brochure developed by NSDL titled “Investor Guide to Claiming Unclaimed Shares and Dividends” was also launched.

The brochure outlines, in simple language, the step-by-step process for reclaiming unclaimed dividends and shares through the IEPF portal, key documents required (such as PAN, Aadhaar, and Entitlement Letter), and tips for avoiding common reasons for claim rejections. This initiative is expected to further empower investors with the knowledge needed to effectively navigate the claim process.

Highlights

Niveshak Shivir was conceptualised to assist investors in resolving pending issues related to unclaimed dividends and shares, updating KYC and nomination details, and facilitating faster settlements of claims – all under one roof.

Over 450 claimants participated enthusiastically in the event, which attracted investors and stakeholders from Pune and nearby regions. 

Dedicated service desks were established to assist attendees effectively with:

Claiming dividends and shares that have remained unclaimed for over six to seven years;
On-the-spot updating of KYC and nomination details;
Prompt resolution of claim-related issues.

By bringing together representatives from MIIs (Market Infrastructure Institutions),Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTAs), Depositories and Depository participants, the event successfully created awareness of the processes, thereby  ensuring a transparent and seamless awareness towards demat of physical shares, updating KYC and nomination and the processes of IEPF claim were demystified.