KNOW YOUR MEMBER – CS ABHINAYA

  1.       Please tell us about your student days – in CS

 

I decided to take CS after completing B.Com. It was a challenging decision for me as I was playing professional cricket at that time and CS demanded diligent work, it was like trying to ride two horses at a time. I joined Blue Dot Academy, T.Nagar for my CS inter preparation. I was one of the first batch of students of Mr.Srikanth’s CS inter classes there. He was an excellent guru and motivated us throughout. I later joined CS final classes with Late Mr. Desigan Balaji at Bharatwaj Institute, Nungambakkam. Dedicating time for studies was hard as I was juggling with both cricket and CS. One was physically exhausting and other was mentally demanding. Luckily I had very supportive teachers and my parents always stood with me. I played professional cricket for 6 years. It helped that I had practiced a mental partition of sorts which allowed to switch over from the cricket ground to classroom, switch off one while concentrating on the other. It was tiring but still enjoyable. Without the encouragement and support of my gurus I wouldn’t have completed my CS successfully.  

 

2.       We understand you are a sports person. Tell us about your journey in sports

 

The interest in sports started much earlier during my childhood. Participating in sports and game gave me opportunity to skip classes in school and so it started. I would participate in all games and sports which our school offered. My professional journey in sports started when I was at 18 years of age.  I started playing professional cricket from my 11^th std. I studied in Shri Ahobilam Math Oriental School, West Mambalam where they had a women’s cricket team. I was selected to captain my school team by Mr. Muralikrishnan our Physical training instructor and he was one who spotted my talent and wanted me to captain the team. I am indebted to him for his help. We participated in a inter-school cricket tournament with 7 other schools. Our school did not win the tournament but I was appreciated by cricket coaches from other schools.  This cricket tournament was organized Mr. Prakash Bangara and Mr. Iqbal ex-cricketers. They noticed my talent and wanted me to join their Cricket club for further coaching. First I did not believe myself to become a cricket player but it was my father and my uncle who supported and pushed me to take up the coaching classes. I was hesitant as I was thinking how to manage my studies if I started taking the classes, especially with the 12^th Std. Board exams coming up. With the support of my parents, I attended cricket coaching classes.

 

After a month, I went to the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) selection process for the Under 19 State Team. To my surprise I was selected in the State Team as a bowler. I started my cricket career as a medium pace bowler. After the selection, the coaching for the state team started which lasted for 15 days. After 15 days of practice, we headed to Anantapur for my debut in professional cricket at Ranji Tournament kick starting my cricket career.

 

I also represented my college cricket team – “Ethiraj College for women” and was well supported by Mr. Ramesh, the Cricket team coach.

 

I represented the Tamil Nadu in both Junior and Senior level for 6 years. I have travelled many places across India and had an excellent experience and a great learning from the game which I apply in my CS career and in my life till today.

 

3.       Are you in anyway connected to Cricket now? Are you just following it in TV?

 

I just follow the game in TV. But, in future I have plans to become a BCCI and ICC approved coach.

 

4.       Are you following the fitness mindset and procedure you learnt .

I am following the fitness mindset and procedure till today. I always want to be fit. There have been times where I was not able to follow my complete fitness regime but I definitely hope to do better.

 

5.       Please tell us about your CS – corporate experience

 

I completed my CS training in Cooper Bussmann India Private Limited, Pondicherry. I worked in CS firm for 2 years. I was also into practice but due to COVID, I was forced to leave practice and join a company as CS. Currently, I am working as a Company Secretary in Andhra Pradesh Power Finance Corporation Limited (APPFCL), Vijayawada. APPFCL is a Government Non-Banking Finance Company registered with the Reserve Bank of India with a paid up capital of Rs. 348 Crores. This is my first independent stint as CS and has given me an exposure to the workings of top echelons in Government sector.

 

6.       What is your future plans

 

My future plan is very simple to chase my dreams. One of them is to become a Cricket coach. On the professional front I wish to move up the corporate ladder, handling much more complex and critical responsibilities.

 

7.       What is your views on CS Course and the way forward.

 

Among the professional course I think CS is unique as it involves elements of secretary ship, acts as a statutory wind chute and exposure to navigating the corporate world.  I have read that in World War II bombers the navigators were more important than pilots themselves as where we are determines how we are, we are those navigators of the corporate world I think. With digitalization and social media world of companies are open to more micro scrutiny and CS as a professional will become indispensable in this environment.

 

 

Know Your member- KS Venkatakrishnan Practising Company Secretary and Faculty in SIRC-ICSI

 Please tell us when did you study ACS?  How were you attracted to this course? What are the other courses that you have studied?

I joined the ACS course during 1998 after completing CWA and got attracted to this course to acquire legal knowledge.

I completed by graduation in B.Sc. (Maths) from Vaishnava College, Chennai during 1982 and my dream was to do Chartered Accountancy – CA course, but before completing my degree, I  was selected for Bank job through BSRB recruitment and joined Indian Bank during November 1982.

However my urge for studies never stopped and I completed M.Sc. (Maths) from Annamalai University, Chidambaram under distance education programme and then joined ICWAI (Costing) course and completed the same. In the meanwhile, I did PGDPM (MBA) from NIPM Calcutta and subsequently completed the CS course. ALL the above courses I completed while I was in employment in Indian Bank.

 

2. Were you in employment for some time? If so, where you have you worked so far?

 

Yes, I got employed with Indian Bank in 1982 after completing my graduation and worked till 2001 (resigned as officer).

 

3. When did you start practice?

 

On 30^th June 2003 and I have completed 16 years of practice mainly in company law.

 

4. What are the subjects that you teach? What are the institutions that you are taking classes?

 

At present I am taking classes at SIRC-ICSI -foundation level- teaching Financial Accounting and Statistics subjects.

 

5. A Company Secretary taking Maths and Statistics classes; looks very different and interesting; what are your practice areas?

 

Basically my dream was to be a Chartered Accountant but could not do as I got employed in Indian Bank even before I could complete my final year of graduation (B.Sc. Mathematics from Vaishnava College, Arumbakkam). However my urge for studies never stopped and I completed other courses as mentioned above. Apart from the above, I had interest in teaching Mathematics subject to school and college students during my evening hours, while I was in employment.

 

During 2001, Voluntary Retirement Scheme was introduced in the Bank and I applied for the same with intention to could continue my teaching as full time, but the same was rejected by the Bank and during 2002, I resigned from the Bank and started my own coaching centre for teaching Accountancy and Mathematics. At that time, I learnt that there was more scope for secretarial practice and started the CS practice from June 2003. Though I struggled during initial years, after the introduction of online filing from 2006 by MCA, the practice has slowly improved. But I am yet to appear before the NCLT or NCLAT and waiting for good time and opportunity for that.

 

6. How are you able to manage both practice and teaching?

 

Mostly I have my classes between 4 PM to 9 PM on all days of week and morning hours I allocate for secretarial work and visiting client offices. This way I was able balance both. But when it comes to client or class – my first preference would be for students.

 7. Do you have any other passion/ pastime?

 I had an opportunity to work for a social organisation named RAMANA SUNRITYA AALAYA (TRUST) which is engaged in teaching Special children using dance and music as therapy. I am one of the trustees since 1989.

Also engaged in teaching economically weaker/poor children conducted by SYMA (a social service oriented organisation which is organising free coaching for 10^th and 12^th TN State Board Students in Triplicane)

I am also engaged in religious activities (chanting Vedas and prabhandams) in Sri Parthsarathy Swamy Temple, Triplicane Chennai and frequently visit other temples during temple festivals

 

8. Please tell us about your family.

I come from a family of teachers.

My maternal grandfather was retired Tamil Professor from Vivekananda College, Chennai      (Late Prof. C Jagannathachariar) and a well-known Tamil scholar.

My Paternal grandfather was retired Mathematics Professor (Late Prof. KS Srinivasachariar)

My father retired from LIC (Late Mr K S Singarachari) an authority in actuarial valuation.

My Mother (Smt Aravinda) has completed her PhD in Music at the age of 70 years (from Madras University) during 2012 and is teaching Veena for the past 50 years and also interested in Scholarly works of Alwars and Acharyas.

My wife (Mrs Karpagam) is employed as a teacher in private school in Chennai and without her support I would not have started my CS practice after resigning from Bank.

My son has completed MS programme from NTU Singapore and is at present employed in a private company in Belgium, Europe.

 

My brother is an ACA and ACS (dual professional) and now a practicing Chartered Accountant.

My sister is married and settled in Mumbai.

 

9. You have been teaching for a very long time. Has the students’ approach/ attitude changed over the years?

 

Yes, there is lot of changes in students’ approach and attitude particularly after the innovation of Mobile Smart Phones. The use of mobile is both advantage and disadvantage. However, concentration and studying regularly will pay better results and this is true after analysing the recent trends of students from rural areas of North India like Rajasthan and UP securing All India Ranks in all the three professional courses.

 

10. What are the challenges that you face as a Practising Company Secretary?

 

Lots of changes in the Companies Act and Rules and frequent amendments on daily basis is a challenge  and unless we are up to date on a daily basis, we may find it difficult to compete with our peers in practice.

Besides there are also changes in other related Acts like Labour laws and Direct Tax and Indirect Tax which we have to update on a regular basis.

 

11. Do you find that the course is becoming tough as the days go by or you think the level of expertise expected is the need of the hour?

The CS course has been modified to suit the present day requirement and it is of course becoming tough.  However if the students understand the concepts thoroughly and prepare well for exam with plan and strategy then it will be easy for them to clear the exams. 

 

12. What are the general points that you would like to tell for students who study this challenging course?  

 

Students must understand the basic concepts and Acts and Rules.

Study all the topics given in the subject and wherever required study and understand the applicable case laws (published in the Chartered Secretary) and try to apply the same while answering relevant questions.

Students must update themselves with recent amendments /changes in Rules.

My advice to students would be first study our Institute Study material which has wide coverage of the course content and then go through other reference books.

Prof New Syllabus Module 3: How to prepare/ present: Suggestions by successful students

Suggestions by recently passed out students on how to prepare Module 3 of CS professional New syllabus..

Simran Ajmeer

I will share a few points of how I prepared for group 3. 

First of all we have to cover the module and then go for reference books. I did self study and youtube classes played an important role. I focused more on corporate funding since the open book papers are unpredictable. 

Corporate funding: 

Most of the chapters are familiar to us as we have been learning these regulations for quite a while. Once you go through the book you will get to know the important chapters and the past year question papers will help you with that. Commercial paper and bank guarantee is as important as ICDR and LODR. There will be one documentation question for sure. There are no numerical questions in our module but numerical questions are often asked. You can surf youtube for that. They have posted videos of all possible numericals that can be asked from this book. 

MDCS: 

I made an index type thing which has the page number from module and the outcome of the case in one sentence. So it was easy for me to find out. Last attempt ICSI released new cases and they removed almost all cases from the module. But unfortunately for the exam most questions were out of syllabus and were from the removed syllabus. So it is very unpredictable and i will advise to be prepared with all the study materials. 

Elective (IPR)

As far as I know most of the questions were direct. 

The first question was for 40 marks (10 each) and was not related to the module. We just have to read the paragraph they gave and to answer accordingly. I think that is a great opportunity for us to score as it depends on our writing skills. The other questions were mostly direct and note that all questions were different case laws. 

It is always adviced to go through past year question papers to get a clear idea and concentrating on a subject more in a group can save you from not making it because of aggregate marks.

SREELAKSHMI

Corporate funding: 

It is best to have good clarity on the topics primarily SEBI(ICDR)Reg. and SEBI(LODR)Reg. Also practice the past year practical questions because they come for around 10 marks.

MDCS: 

The case laws were direct and you can answer them if you are familiar with the text. But in the last two attempts they asked  questions outside the module that too, for high marks. In my attempt

(Dec 2020) they asked for 40 marks from Competition Act and none of us had even brought any book about Competition Act. So I think it will be a good idea to bring some additional books like bare act of Companies Act,2013 and modules of Executive.

ELECTIVE: 

My elective was insolvency and I personally felt that it was very scoring. Try to get clarity about the concepts and not waste time on topics like Powers and functions of IBBI. If such questions come in the exam, you can just take the answers directly from the books you have brought.

AKSHAYA

Corporate funding 

I would suggest start revising debt fund based/ non- fund based first, then equity non fund, all other chapters of part A, LODR, then ICDR completely at last.

While preparing read completely and learn the provisions of ICDR and LODR.

MDCS: 

Read the module, make summary as one want to present on the paper, make an index of all the cases chapter wise with its heading.

Carry module, summary, index, deleted cases, articles on some general topics (RPTs, Independent Director, Corporate Governance, etc) one may get it through ICSI news letters, SACMDD module, Governance module to ur exam.

ELECTIVE: 

My elective was banking and I chose this subject so that I have a subject with some practical questions, to make it easier to study simultaneously with a theory subject. 

Any subject can be taken. No subject is easy or difficult.

Ayesha

I have cleared module 3 in June 2021 attempt. As everyone would always give sufficient time to prepare to attend their exams. But all I had is solidly 20 to 22 days to prepare all these 3 papers due to personal reasons. So I started with CFL first.

I was completely blank about the paper as I did'nt start my training yet, I hve not taken any classes and I don't know hindi so youtube videos too didn't help me out. So I was only doing self study , it took me all these days to prepare only for CFL and my first exam was quite good.

But the remaining two papers, trust me, I touched my book only the days before my exam as we had 3 days gap to prepare.

I don't mean that the day before the exams are enough to prepare mdcs and elective paper.

I just mentioned it here just to motivate the people who thinks that few days of time will not be sufficient to prepare a module and procastinates the attempt.

CFL

As everyone say ICSI material is important, yes it is but i found it bit difficult to learn from institute material so I didn't use it much.

I used yes academy chirag chotrani sir's book   for funding and shubhamm sukhlecha sir's free notes for listing.

Started with Part B first only 4 chapters for 40 marks.

Concentrate more on Lodr Part.

Always have your own handwritten notes for  chapters which you find difficult. Even it takes time to write it is worth every minute spent on it .Prepare notes in your own understandable language but do not change the meaning of the provision.

Even if u write the exact words from book have it in your own handwriting and  language so that it will be easy for you to learn and revise.

And then coming to part A

I Concentrated more on chapter 4,5,6,7,8,10,11,12 and finally 1 and 9(from revision notes) and chapter  2 and 3 just have gone through the gist of it.

This helped me to clear the subject.

MDCS

Used shubhamm sir's ((inspire academy) book. His Saarthi (index book) And yoddha ( Content book) helped a lot. ICSI MATERIAL (refer the case study that is given at last and inbetween because questions were asked from that)

And for reference have taken company law book, securities law book ( executive),  IBC book ( CRILWU),  Ebcl book ( executive) for competition act and economic law), JIGL book ( executive) for interpretation of law.

You have to carry some weight but it is only for refernce purpose as we don't know from which part we will be getting the first 40 marks.

Elective paper IBC.

Used Shubhamm Sukhlecha sir's book alone+ ICSI mat

For index part also same Shubhamm sir book.

Have prepared a separate index for case laws alone.

Time was not even sufficient as it took time to search each and every answer and write so manage your time accordingly.

Sakthivel

For CFLS I would suggest to complete study of all the chapters,don't leave any chapters coz no one knw which chapter they will ask more questions . It will be difficult to remember all the regulations under LODR Chapter but no other go we have to find a way to remember. Probably LODR Chapter will be little difficult and have to concentrate more on that.

I have choosen IBC as my elective subject the reason behind that is in paper 5 we have to study IBC so it will be easy if u choose IBC as your elective.

Buy IBC commercial  bare act with regulations ,it will help you a lot in the exam hall.

Just have a reading through all the case laws in the CS study material as they are asking more questions from those case laws only.

Regarding the 40 mark question in MCS, Refer previous year question papers and get an idea how  they are asking the questions.

Prepare ur own index in a way so that u could able to find the cases from the MCS book quickly.

Time management is the key in respect open book exams.  You have to find the cases from the book and have to write quickly

Kousalya

Module 3 is the scoring of all the three module ..ofcourse we have two open books..but that doesn't mean that we can prepare only funding paper...u should equally spend time for the open books as well. Only then exams would be easy..

Funding: The most dryest part. Try to learn all the chapters...its totally normal that many topics would be new in this paper. I totally recommend to study this part only in good mood...or else, u will not even like this paper....leave two or such topics which are really hard. But dont do that too much..make short notes wherever u could. Prepare consistently ...qns would be easy and u will really do well..

Books: Ankush Bansal, Yes academy

MCS: Read every case law from top to bottom, be clear with what the case is. Most of the cases would be under same issue. But there will be some uniqueness as to each case..catch them perfectly and note it down..read every caselaw and underline or highlight the key words..every case should be remembered in such a way that ...during last day before exam..if u look into the keyword, u should able to recollect the whole case..

Make index of ur own ...this is very important...only if we prepare our own notes, we can know how much we are into this subject...index only will help u in exams...prepare index in such a way that ur index should contain the name of the case, case number, key points and the page number of the books in which u r refering to...During exams, u can connect he qn asked only with the help of index. Go through the previous qn papers with the index which u have prepared, this will help to understand how much u can connect with..

In exam, please dont attempt for the first 40marks in the beginning...those 40marks arent in ur control...but u should have atleast 40mins alloted in ur exam for that 1st qn.balance accordingly...since its open book dont try to right the entire thing from top to bottom, time wont help u in that case.

Books to carry: ur own index, yes academy book. subham sulekha book, icsi material and ur executive company law book

Elective: mine was insolvency ...even for this paper, read the whole book and underline, highlight wherever necessary...ur icsi material is very much sufficient for this paper....same like mcs, go through past exam qn papers and try to figure out the ans with ur icsi index.

I did not prepare index separately for this paper...just icsi book was sufficient...attempt the 1st qn in the last...allot 40mins for that. ..

Books to carry: ICSi material, ur MCS index and ur MCS reference book(say subham sir book or yes academy book).

Revision tip

Everytime I finish learning a chapter, I will have a voice note of the chapter in my own language like every part of the chapter i ll make a voice note.

And the small chapters will be around 20 to 30 Minutes of voice note and big chapters will be around 45 minutes to 1 hour.

So as everyone would have faced it once you complete learning and open your book for revising you would find it as a new chapter as if you have not learnt it before.

So this voice note will help u definitely to recall it.

And the total hours of voice note per paper will be around 8 to 9 hours.

I will keep it at 1.5x speed before the day of exam so that you can revise quick and recall every part.

Anjana

For open book examination please be ready with index. And for listing be strong in part-B and Icdr.. Go through all the previous year questions for the remaining chapters.

Surabhi Ranka

For module 3, all the 3 papers are interesting. Firstly, funding and listing is in 2 parts.. 60 and 40.. I would suggest to first complete the part 2 completely.. try not to omit any chapter or topic.. make sure that u r confident for all the 40.. then start with part 1... Do not forget to go through the amendments and the previous years question papers.. right from start have track on the time and set the time limit within which u shd be able to complete the questions to help in attending all the questions.. 

For MCS, make sure that all the cases are atleast twice read... At first reading, understanding the case.. upon second reading prepare your own index which should help you in searching the particular case law in the exam... Time management is most important here .. how I had planned was- prepared my own index.. upon receiving the question paper, about 30 min I took in marking the case law to which the question relates to.. do not forget the intro and conclusion part.. open book is not just copy paste of material... It requires application of your understanding.. 

My elective subject was banking.. one cannot be sure wat will be asked and from where... So do not read it as jus an open book... Study it as any paper ... That will help you understand the question being asked and help in quickly referring to the respective chapter from where you can complete the answer... It is surely a scoring paper ... But pl.. do not take it lightly as being a open book .

Related Posts:

Prof -New syllabus Module 1: How to prepare/present- Suggestions by passed out students

Prof New Syllabus Module 2: How to prepare/ present: Suggestions by successful students

Prof -New syllabus Module 2: How to prepare/present- Suggestions by passed out students

Suggestions by recently passed out students on how to prepare Module 2 of CS professional New syllabus..

Abhinaya

1. One of the major hurdle during CS exam is that, we don’t get gaps between our exams. Will have to plan studies + routine strategically. Like last day revision, sleeping patterns, food, etc.

Sleep deprived is a most regular problem I get to know and which even I faced, especially during last few papers.

2. Keep short notes, codes, notings all ready and assembled at one place. But make sure the output has to be in detail and in professional language.

3. I prefer writing answers in points with a conclusion in paragraph form.

4. One of the most important  practice during exam is time management. I believe one should attempt for atleast 90-95 marks for keeping it a sure short.

We will have to write a lot in professional level as all papers are subjective in nature. I used to do a lot of writing practice for ascertaining time taken, quality of the answer, paper presentation, speed.

SACMDD: 

Read and revise the module well. Mostly the questions are repetitive in nature and can be predicted/ prioritised at the time of revision.

Memorise all the check lists well.

CRILW: 

I used to refer bare acts for this subject. As there are possibilities of in depth questions, case study type questions, analytical questions.

Also make a note on days count limits, definition in this subject separately.

I prefer revising part B completely on a day before exam and start solving from part B only, then continue with part A.

RCD: 

The subject seems to be small. But one need a lot of concept clarity, understanding and in depth knowledge to be able to solve the paper. Expect less direct questions in this subject.

Rathna Priya

For module 2: All the three subjects are theory oriented. Get the concepts and read. Read institute material fully. 

For corporate restructuring, it needs a constant study. Cos v need to gothrough two books. 

For RCD , more of case studies have to be approached. Remember the provisions to start with the answer.

For secretarial audit, its full of practical knowledge. Understanding is must.

Kousalya

All the three papers in Module 2 are core papers. Portions are vast. But many topics are practical..if u r undergoing training under any PCS, this module is cakewalk for u .

Please dont skip any of the chapters in any paper. It would be hard, time consuming and tiring, but it would help u during exams. You will be able to ans all the qns

SACMDD: You will be having two parts. My favorite was first part. It was easy and practical exposure was more. In part b, due diligence and types of audit chapter has more weightage. Concentrate on those.. Make short notes wherever possible. During exams only those notes will help u out.

Books: Ankush Bansal, Inspire academy and yes academy

CRVI: Part A would be rough, vague...but first three chapters would be easy..buyback and takeover chapters will be easy. Like if u are clear with the provisions, those topics would be very chronological and easy to grasp with. Second half of first part would be really dry. But dont skip either. Atleast give one or two times a read.

Part B is certainly the most easiest of the module. All the sections of IBC would be like a story line. So please learn precisely and u will definitely be strong in ur learning. This part would be the scoring part.

Books: Yes academy and ICSI material

RCD: minimum chapters with vast portions. Definitely not easy paper. But please learn all the chapters..dont worry about the limits...as u cannot mug up all...but try to be confident in other topics....Make short notes wherever u could.

Books: Ankush Bansal, inspire academy and yes academy.

If you know Hindi, please go through the marathon notes of muskan gupta mam, it would be of much use.

Be consistent in ur preparation, definitely you will clear this module.

Lakshmi Krishna

RCD to me felt like a mix of concepts from all the previous 5 papers in professional. It has in depth concepts and lot of case laws based on that. There are only 9 lessons but it’s as good as 20 because the inside topics are many. Be very thorough with the concepts and while learning the case laws remember the crux of it since the questions are case laws based and you should be able to identify which one. There are a few that you can remember the names, the rest it’s important if you know the matter of the case & its judgements. 

It’s not possible to remember all the penalties but there are some which you will know are important as you proceed with preparation like sec 447 etc. those you can remember and quote in your answers. Unless and until you remember case laws, sections and penalties very well it’s better not to quote the wrong one. If you’re very sure, go for it.

In CR, it is better to be very thorough with second part, since it’s comparatively easier and will give you confidence if you start answering from part-B

SACMDD - the question paper was very different from previous attempts so that took us aback in the first look. To get hold of what they’re asking and start writing it took us half an hour. They were asking lot of questions as to what our interpretations are. Maybe that’s why. 

RCD- they asked case law based questions so unless we’re able to comprehend what concept it relates to then chances are we might be confused.

In module 2, you really need to have the speed and practice to write since there’s a lot that you’ll need to think and put on your papers. Time management is important so that one can complete 100 marks what so ever.

My approach for all the 3 subjects as instructed by one of the faculty’s was to write the facts of the case first, in case it’s a direct question then write the definition and explain in brief. Second paragraph can talk about provisions of the section in case of case laws and other questions you can write in detail about the concept. Third paragraph should be a conclusion always. If it’s a case law an interpretation and your derivation from it.

Please check the supplements given by ICSI for every subject much in advance. Having a look at them last minute will make you nervous.

Kiran

For SAC paper I focused on part A. And then in part B with the help of scanner I ranked chapters based on weightage. Part A helped me in exam.

Sreelakhsmi

SACMDD: 

The questions were pretty straight forward so it’s best to read and revise the module well.

CRILW: 

The subject requires detailed study so it is best to start early, otherwise all the topics get mixed up in the end. For e.g. You may get confused between the powers/duties of interim resolution professional/resolution professional/liquidator.

RCD: 

Although the module is comparatively small it was one of my most difficult exams as the questions were mostly case study and scenario based. So you need good concept clarity.

Praveena

I used to stick to only our institute study material and it helped me a lot.  Conceptual clarity is a must when it comes to CS exams  esp. with regard to module 2 as all three papers are theory based.. 

SACMDD: This is according to me the most scoring paper of module 2. Part 1 covers the practical aspects which is easy to interpret.. Part 2 is purely theory where you need to remember different headings and points.. for this paper I would suggest to reread the concepts in timed intervals.. mostly direct questions are asked... 

CRILW: This is also a theory based paper with few case laws for reference.. 

Part 2 is comparatively easy as the points are repeatedly given and part 1 needs more attention.. it would be easier if we prepare short notes for reference to save time on last minute revision..

RCDNR: This paper deals with various acts like FEMA, RBI, etc in three chapters.. I studies by combinng the three chapters as per the acts it helped me to remember who is the authority under which act and what procedure is followed and all..first three chapters are more scoring so tried to be more thorough with them.. for last chapters dealing with CPC, CrPC I read and summarised the content for easy reference.. 

Be confident and attempt for 100 marks.. practice writing because at exams I felt it would have been better if I could write bit more faster.. so practicing beforehand would help.. all the best everyone.. let's crack the upcoming attempt successfully 👍🏻👍🏻

Nothing is impossible.

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CS Prof. New Syllabus-Module 1 How to prepare & present -Suggestions from passed out students

Recently we had an interactive session with students who has passed CS professional in New syllabus. The points suggested by them is shared here for the benefit of students preparing CS Professional new syllabus.

Sreelakshmi

One of the problems I faced during the exams was that we don’t get gaps between our exams especially if we are writing all the Modules. So it would be advisable to plan beforehand how you intent to use that very crucial half-day. You can prepare short notes or mark important parts that you wish to revise.

During the exams I tried to add a heading to each of my answers for e.g., if the question is about CSR I would start by writing SECTION 135: CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY and underline it.

I also tried to underline the key words in the answer with a pencil but only after attending the whole paper and provided I have time.

Some of the tips I used when preparing for individual subject are:

a)       Governance: One of the advantages of governance is that you know the marks allocated to each section. Risk management is 20 marks for a single chapter and Compliance is 2 chapters for 20 marks. If you prepare very well for this part, it will definitely work as a boost in the exam

b)      Tax: for tax, I concentrated more on GST and Customs and even in the exam I started with the Indirect tax part (but that is only because I was not that good in DT, so it totally depends on you). AlsoI felt the questions are more theory based and procedural.

c)       Drafting: for drafting I personally felt that if you are thorough with the ICSI Module you will be able to score well as most of the questions are direct and there are very less case study questions. Also concentrate on the drafts as they carry good weightage in exams.

Abhinaya

a) Governance: One of the advantages of this subject is, it's a first paper. One can do good quality revision. Always aim for exemption in this subject in Group 1.

Also marks allocation in this subject is icing over the cake like 20 marks for risk management (1 chapter), 20 marks for compliance management (2 chapters). 

b) Tax: I focused more on GST and Customs. Because I believe DT is mostly very unpredictable like sometimes more of theory, sometimes more of sums, this time it was more of executive level based questions.

c) Drafting: I used to write and practice each and every draft, whether small or big or important or not. Then I prepared a list of pointers for recital, body which I used while doing revision a day before. It was really very helpful and time saving.

Vignesh

For clearing each and every module I believe consistency is the key. So please read daily it will help you in remembering the answers and provisions a lot in the exams.

For module 1:

GRMCE - risk management chapter is for 20 marks so after completing it we can move to part A. Make sure that you attend all the questions in the exam. 

Advance tax laws - I read GST and customs part. Practice sums daily and most importantly write notes for each sum. For example if you're attending calculation of ITC Problem and you're not adding items pertaining to blocked credit please state them under the notes stating the reason why you are not taken the figure.

Drafting - Drafting is really an interesting paper where we can score more. So please practice each and every draft atleast once.

Surabhi

Drafting is the scoring subject. You need not mug up anything for drafting. Just know the formats for resolutions, deeds, agreements. I would suggest you to read the whole material atleast thrice. There are just few topics which require more attention like in chapter one and two. All deeds have a basic skeleton. You need to learn the skeleton. Deeds have one. Affidavits have a different skeleton. You need to highlight the skeleton when you're learning it and then you'll realise that it's actually easy.

And some type of agreement need some extra clauses. If your concepts are clear, this will become easier.

Also.. practice drafting.. take half an hour everyday and go through a different type of agreement/document and close your book and try to draft it on your own and then check your own answer.. you will realise the points you are missing and you agreement in the exam will be perfect.. and also u will be able to complete the paper in time. Time management should be worked out.

Advance tax law can be said to be divided into 3 parts actually.. 1. GST 2. Customs 3. Direct tax.. I followed Tharunraj Sir's material and classes for 1&2 at icsi chennai institute for gst and customs. For customs and Direct Tax, you may refer the ICSI study material.. GST will be asked for 60 marks, 10 marks for customs and 30 for DT. I suggest you to also refer the past question papers... This will give you a fair idea on how the questions are framed... Give equal importance to all the 3 parts... GST will help you score more whereas in customs, until 2020 attempt, I noticed similar practical question had been asked.. and for Direct Tax, give equal importance on theory and sums... 

Plan your preparation and revision... Have good practice in practical sums which will help you in time management at exams..

Rupali

Drafting is a scoring subject. Theory and drafts both are important.  Under drafts as I already said in the above para try to concentrate on the structure of the draft and 8 points under each draft.

And theory part is the bonus part of the paper try to read the max theory u can. You will get direct questions under a topic.

Out of the three subjects Concentrate more on Tax since it's vast  And second on CGRMCE 

And while reading these two side by side try covering drafting 

Note: Though drafting is an easy subject try to cover everything bcoz it will help u in the aggregate.

Aarthi

1- My first piece of practice is revision. I will start revision prior one month before exam date. Four days per subject. In that first three days revision and 4th day full book go through.

Actually we would all have studied more but when we take last minute revision it will be like as if we have not studied at all. So best practice is to have at least 2 revision per subject.

2 - Attend all the questions in exam, but timings is important first attend the well know questions and finally attend the doubt one.

3 - Write according to marks eg if it's 5 mark question I will write just one side.  If it's 8 mark one and half side.

4 - Underline all side headings and draw line after each answer. It gives us good presentation and neatness.

5 - Start writing as fast from beginning of exam.

In Drafting - Format is the most important. If your format is correct u can score good marks. And if u r drafting for appointment of KMP or MD or EE ( they all r interlinked) so u can remember them according. Same for sale deed. Just connect the common and read.

Kiran

I followed Bangars book for tax for all GST customs and direct tax. Focus on gst and customs that's where you can score more

Kousalya

Believe me, Module 1 is bit tough, but it isn't impossible to crack..

All you need is consistency in your preparation... Please dont skip any chapter in any paper..

Even if you prepare for all chapters, there will certainly be one or more topic in every chapter which is hard, so eventually we will not be able to give our 100%

So its better to study all chapters...from exam point of view, it will be better to write one or two points, rather than totally skipping and losing marks...point here is you should at least know one or two points about every topic in your paper.

In GRMCE, segregation of marks is already there, so focusing on risk and compliance will help you score well, we don't need to mug ethics part, it is general in terms....1st half of the governance portion will be easy to study and it will be more practical....

In tax, please balance both theory and sums, dont beleive in either one alone..

GST portion would be vast, but try to learn everything

Customs is only for 10marks, it is totally unair to study all the chapters in customs for just 10marks.But believe me, work out atleast sums in customs and check thru past qns papers. 

Direct tax was the toughest part for me...I expected more sums, but in my attempt, it was totally reverse..

Books to suggest would definitely be Bangar, I know bangar books are vast, but if you have time, please start with every chapter slowly and it will boost your confidence day by day, chapter by chapter

In drafting, only one or two questions would be drafting. All other would be probably direct questions

Drafting would be the scoring paper in first module.  Even in this paper, please go through all chapters.

Practicing drafting is not compulsory, you will definitely do well even without practicing. If you have time alone, please practice. But don't waste time in that itself My Books suggestion for both GRMCE and Drafting is CS Ankush Bansal sir books. His books are worth every penny spent

And please attend for all 100marks in exams....balance in such a way to complete all questions.

I kept 30mins for each qn and balanced equally..

In this way, you can write fast your very well known ans...and u will get time to think for the qns which are hard for you. But please attend all questions.

Lakshmi Krishna

I had cleared module 1 in December 2020. Out of my experience I’d say that thorough understanding of concepts in the 3 subjects is the first most important step. 

Write down key words and important points in 3-4 words next to the paragraph you’re learning so that when you open books to revise next, those catch your attention first. Try to learn every topic even though it might seem vast. 

I have relied only on the institute material or all 3 subjects and nothing else. Nowadays the exam pattern has become more vague and they’re expecting interpretation of the concepts, so it’s important that we grasp the question and what they’re asking before we get to the answering part. 

Exam based I would like to say that it’s very very important to complete all the questions and write for 100 marks no matter what. You have to manage time and not spend more than 1/2 an hour for each main question so that you can complete all 6 in 3 hours. That’s literally the key to scoring high.

I had referred to Suchitha scanner for module 1 and felt it was a good revision after learning from the material. To see how to write answers for exams, it’s best to have a look at the guidelines answers provided by ICSI

Once you’re done revising for the exam , spare at least 15 minutes to glance through 2 -3 previous year question papers so that you see the mix up pattern from various chapters and you get used to that. Will help a lot

For drafting subject, the main key words which are unique and important to an agreement should be kept as it is. Also language used in the drafts should be formal , so we need to keep in mind not to use simple communicative language and to try and put to use formal language as much as possible.

Main thing in tax is not to get scared looking at the amount of portions and pages. That itself will be a mind block for most of it. Look at it as small parts and then cover it one at a time. That way you’ll be able to gain confidence on the subject than look at the massive book and feel like it’s a lot.

How to study / revise before exam: 

Lakshmi Krishna

I split my time in such a way that I spent the majority of my time revising concept wise and notes (if any) that you may have from which you’ve already revised before to learn GST. And then the remaining time for customs and direct tax looking at marks weightage. Just glance through concepts and remind yourself of the provisions. Don’t expect to read a lot before the exam, it can stress you out.

Rupali

Be confident..if we are under fear we tend to forget things...so try to be confident

And trust me confident doesn't comes from studying it comes only from revising 

When u revise and u feel u remember the ans then your confidence goes up.

When you revise try to tell the ans in short in your own words either in English or mother tongue .

Aarthi

Have good sleep, just glance book onces in morning, go to the centre well before, dodnt do any last minute reading. It will make u to forget wt u read prior.

Mamtha

Day before exam make sure to go through all what u hv studied, prefer starting with topic having more weightage

Is there any min no of pages to be written for getting the max marks?

Lakshmi Krishna

I have always stuck to one side for a 5 marks question and wrote 2 sides if it’s 5+

Please write to the point and make sure all the important points are captured. You don’t have to write too much. To the point and content matters more

Kousalya

Stick to max of one page for every 5marks qn..More than 5marks qns ,write max of 2pages

Rupali

A page for 5 mark is sufficient.

One of my teachers told this rule

Marks+2 = no of points 

So if it's 5 marks+2 = 7 points

And plz follow these rules

1)Use a single colour pen

2)Do not put bullets only use number or alphabets for topics and sub topics.

3) not to write stories 

4) write the question number properly 

5 ) leave one or two line after completing an answer

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KNOW YOUR MEMBER – Ms Selvaboopathy

         1.       Kindly share about your education- how you got attracted to CS course and how your progress in CS exams was.

I have completed my school education in 1997 at Government School in Tirupur District, Tamilnadu. I had passion to study but my parents were unable to afford the fees for my higher studies, hence I discontinued my studies with lot of pain. Later on I engaged in Sericulture and other farming activities with my parents. I got married in 2006 and became a mother of two lovely children. In the meantime, my brother had continued his studies and set up practice as Chartered Accountant along with his CS and CMA qualifications.

 When I was challenged with severe financial crisis, I wanted to learn tailoring to support my family. However my brother asked me “why don’t you re-start your studies?” knowing that I had excelled in studies during my schooling. It was the triggering point, which has led to my successful completion of CS and CA. This happened in January 2012, after 15 years of my schooling and when my daughter started her schooling and my son was 1.5 years old. From that moment, I started taking my studies seriously along with taking care of my family as a home maker. I will say that it was possible for me to pursue these respectful courses only because it had no age restriction along with minimal course fee and self-study course structure.

 Since I was a science background student studied in Tamil medium, to start off my basics, I started with 12^th Standard Accounts and Economics along with CS Foundation. I used dictionary to understand the meaning of every complicated English words as I lost touch with my studies during the 15 years of my rural family life. I based my entire preparation solely on institute materials and practice manuals. The books were really comprehensive and very much efficient to get overall depth of the subject. I have maintained consistency in studying and kept developing my writing practice.

 I had passed my CS Foundation examinations with 80.5% marks in first appearance during December 2012. It gave immense confidence and belief that I can crack any level of professional exams with proper planning and dedication towards studies. I went on to complete my Executive Programme in June 2014 and became a qualified Company Secretary in December 2016. All the trainings, seminars conducted by ICSI and professional journals cultured me at solving the practical problems in the exams. All that is required is persistence, perseverance and a lot of patience.

 2.       Recently you were in the limelight for completing CA successfully – share your journey in completing CA briefly

My hunger for study had led to pursuing CA exam as well. I started my CA education along with CS in 2015. I cleared my CA Intermediate Level Exams in May 2018 and qualified as a Chartered Accountant in July 2021. My CS preparation, practical training and conceptual knowledge helped me to crack the CA exam with confidence.

 

 3.       Few magazines also wrote about you completing the CA course. Which magazine posted it and how was its response.

Daily Thanthi, one of leading Tamil daily newspaper had conducted an interview and published a brief article about me on September 18, 2021 immediately on my qualification as a Chartered Accountant. It was one of the most memorable days in my life and I had realized the value of education on that day. I received appreciation from all quarters including my professional colleagues, friends and relatives which was very encouraging. Taking a cue from my experience, many students and friends have challenged themselves to break the myth on course toughness, attempts, language barriers, etc.  Especially female students who discontinued their studies due to marriage and family commitments vowed to restart their studies. I felt very fortunate that all the hard work over the past decade had finally paid off.

 4.       Please share your professional journey

During the course of practical trainings, I had valuable experience in the application of laws and concepts. Since I handled multiple clients during the training period, I gathered knowledge on different processes and business functions of companies in various industries. As a Company Secretary, I am handling day to day secretarial compliances and other regulatory requirements.

 5.       Kindly share about your family members.

My parents are respectful farmers and they have always given me the strength, encouragement and support to achieve all my life goals and have stood behind me like strong pillars. They are taking care of my children during this journey. Whenever I was feeling low, my brother had supported me mentally and also financially. With his valuable guidance and support, I had stayed positive at all my crucial times. Last but not the least, my daughter and son’s unconditional love, support and understanding are the backbone to my academic success.

 6.       What are your future plans.

I have not yet decided on the future course of action. But what I can assure is that I will make the best use of my potential and be a responsible professional to create a better corporate environment.

 7.       Your thoughts about how CS will progress in the coming years?

The demand for CS professionals is increasing day by day as there are multiple opportunities for Company Secretaries. Usually, Company Secretaries are responsible for corporate governance, handling legal matters, ensuring compliance with Secretarial standards and taking care of corporate social responsibility. But nowadays the Company Secretary’s role is evolving as Governance Professionals who add value to the Company through their expertise. There are ample opportunities for CS across different sectors in the country as they have in-depth knowledge and expertise of various laws and regulations. Finally, our CS Profession is one of the most respected and reputed positions in the country and is ideal for aspirants who wish to make a good mark in the corporate world.

 Interview by: CS Mohan Kumar, Past Chairman ICSI SIRC

Know your member CS Saravanan

 What is your native place? Where did you do your schooling and college?

I was born in Chandigarh (during my father’s stint at Indian Army), and I studied at various Army Schools across the country. My native place is Trichy and after my father’s retirement, we settled down at Trichy and I had completed my Engineering from Trichy. Subsequently I did my MBA from TSM.

How did you start your CS course and tell us your journey in passing the course.

From my MBA Campus placement, I started working with JWT as Business Consultant and thereon moved to Chairman’s office at MAC Group (SPIC, Sical, etc.). As part of the role, I was handing M&A transactions and I was reporting to the Chairman. During the responsibility, the interaction with CEOs and Board was very aspiring and the interest to pursue CS began. The Syllabus was very practically designed and I could relate it to the daily activities of my responsibility at Chairman’s Office.

During the course of study, we founded a Transaction Advisory firm and the understanding and interest grew further.

After finishing CS, did you start working in Secretarial side? Share us the experience as CS.

After finishing CS, I supported the organization on Secretarial side especially Transaction structuring. I was responsible for fund raising and Transaction planning. Knowledge as a CS helped me arrive at Corporate Structure formulation.

 How were you attracted towards fitness? When did this interest start?

I was a workaholic and during my early part of the career, I ignored physical activities due to work pressure. Even though I was physically fit in school and college, the work environment was so addictive, that I never bothered to exercise. The shock came with a Kidney Stone Stroke and it was followed by back pain and shoulder issues. This made me realize to spend time on physical activities. In 2009, I attended a Half Marathon at Chennai and the Event changed my fitness journey. I could see fitness enthusiasts of double my age, scaling miles effortlessly. Then I started my fitness journey more seriously. 

From there, there was no looking back, I joined Chennai Runners and started running more and became a Chapter coordinator and stated motivating my society and people around me into fitness. Today we do running event in my society, where at least 500 members participate and we organize events around my society, where 1000+ enthusiasts participate. This positive feedback made me spend more time as I was making a difference in the lifestyle of numerous beginners

What are the physical activities that you are doing on a regular basis?

Currently I focus on CrossFit Style of workouts, which is a holistic regimen with functional movement performed at high intensity. The workout programme comprises of Metabolic Conditioning, Olympic lifting and Gymnastics. Over the weekend I practice Endurance workout like Running.

 Understand you are doing certain training programmes related to Physical fitness; can you please share what you are doing in this regard?

We deliver fitness services at doorstep. Our team of trainers reaches out to fitness enthusiasts across Condominiums, Corporate Groups and Individuals and organizes Group Fitness Sessions like Yoga, Strengthening, Zumba and Running. At Corporate and Health Clubs, we manage the Gymnasium and fitness facilities. We also organise a lot of fitness events, which are fun and challenge-oriented to make the fitness routine enjoyable. Daily, more than 500+ people workout with us across 50+ locations in Chennai and Bangalore.

 Tell us about some big programmes where you took part

We strongly believe that human beings have immense potential to revive their health issues naturally without medicine, if right support on exercise and food is provided. We are working on arriving at a Programme that would help the recovery of various health issues like Diabetes, Cardiovascular diseases and  Cancer.

In an effort to bring down metabolic disorders in the society we organised a programme to Reverse Diabetes Naturally. It was a 50-day programme, where we helped people to move away from Medicine in a phased manner with support on food plan and exercise. We took the support of research experts from US and India (like Dr. Nandita Shah) to implement the programme and the programme was a good success as majority of them reversed their diabetic condition and reduced their medication to Zero. They are still doing good after 9 months of programme and inspiring others to follow.

In this Information overload age, finding the right information is challenging, so we support Corporate by delivering lectures and sessions on Fitness, which gives them a lot of awareness of right things to do to take care of their health in a holistic way naturally.

Which are the corporates who have appointed you for physical training?

We are providing fitness services at Reliance, FORD, IIT MRP, Caterpillar, Ericsson, Ashok Leyland, Intellect, Mahindra, Sheraton, Novotel and many more.

 What are your future plans?

We have extended our services to Bangalore and soon we plan to make the initiative pan India. We also plan to design programmes for children, who would be motivated to stay healthy from a younger age.

 

10. What would you advise for our CS fraternity on fitness?

CS fraternity has the ability to make greater change in the society as they are at the helm of the affairs of major Corporates. If the fraternity exhibits and radiates positive vibes not only from mind quotient but also exude highest fitness levels through their body, they can influence organizations to adopt healthy practices.

In order to achieve this, first we have to take care of our health seriously. Our work style is predominantly sedentary, so we need to incorporate more activities in our daily routine by improving quantity and quality of our movement. Natural food is also important to keep ourselves fit and it is a must to decrease the consumption of processed food.

Let’s not wait for health issues or shocks to begin our fitness journey and let’s not wait for an auspicious day or New Year to start the fitness journey, just begin now and try connecting with fit people around you and you will be fit in a short span of time. Start with fitness activities that you enjoy and which you can sustain. Keep progressing in smaller increments, if you are walking, start jogging, if you are jogging, start running, if you are running, start strength training and the journey is so beautiful that we can enjoy life and contribute to society energetically. Keep Inspiring.