Know your member: Interview with CMA. CS. Ln. PROF. DR. V.N. PARTHIBAN

 How many degrees you have completed?

I have completed 150 degrees, out of which 70 degrees are courses like MA,
M. Com., M.Sc., ML, MBA, M.Phil., Ph.D. etc. I have also completed Professional courses like ICSI, CMA, CFA, CPA, FIII, MS etc., Diplomas and Post-Graduate Diplomas.

Very proud to say that I have been declared University First Rank Holder Three Times.

What is the reason behind completing so many degrees?

There is only one primary reason: it is the thirst for knowledge and obtaining recognition through studies and thereby getting acknowledgement from eminent people.

What are the recognitions/ appreciations you have got for completing so many degrees?

Most of the professional institutes like ICSI, IIMM etc. have recognised my achievements and have conducted meetings to honour.  In spite of all these, I am yet to get recognition from either the Central or State Government or Universities. My achievement is very rare and it is my desire that there should be proper recognition by the academic bodies like Universities and other professional institutions.  This desire of mine is unfulfilled.

Can you please share your relationship with CS Institute?

The ICSI is a unique institution that prepares the students to assume very important position in the corporates.  It is a rare professional institute exclusively designed to fit into the requirements of the job profile.  For a teacher this type of academic atmosphere provides a lot of scope for meaningful discussions with the students.  The students have the freedom to discuss and clarify; give their opinion as well as share their experiences with the teacher. This is surely a different type of institution where there is healthy relationship with the students, very good academic atmosphere and enables both the students and institution to be engaged in meaningful activities.  In this aspect, it is a rare institution that cannot easily be compared with other institutions.

                       

What is your main occupation? How do you get time to read many courses? Write exams.

My profession both then and now is only academic activities particularly teaching the students at various levels like UG, PG, Professionals.  As a teacher and as a professional I am familiar with many subjects directly and indirectly connected with Commerce, Management and Law.  This has given immense opportunity to share my knowledge with the youngsters.  For the past two decades I have been teaching commerce and law subjects in Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda College, Chennai in the capacity initially as Assistant Professor and then Associate Professor and Head of the Department.

I do not have any hobbies or past time like watching TV, Movies, etc.  I very rarely attend the social functions even in my relatives’ houses. Out of 24 hours except 7 hours of sleep, approximately 12 hours I spend reading subject books, writing books, teaching, attending seminars, presenting papers in seminars and publishing articles in journals, etc.   It is my ambition till my last breath to prepare for examinations. 

Lot of students have exam fear. What is your advice to them to overcome exam fear?

My only advice to the budding professionals is that to quote Swami Vivekananda “fear is enemy, fear is death; courage[A1]  is life”.  Face the examinations with courage and conviction; not with doubt and suspicion; but to come to this feeling, be thorough in your preparation and understanding of the subject before you think about examinations.  Examinations do not decide your career.  It is for you to decide your career.  Examinations are just like interview.  Face it fearlessly. Concentration is much needed today as the youngsters have many diversions; control the diversions and concentrate on studies. “Success will not come to you, you should go there”.

After completing professional courses, if you had joined corporate companies, you might have earned better.  Why did you continue college life?

Service to the corporate is serving a master but teaching the students is like master serving the students.  In corporate services one is being directed by the management but as an academician we can direct the students.  By serving the corporate, we will get money but by serving the student community, we will be building future for thousands of students. “Doing the greatest good for the largest number of people” can be done only by a teacher.

                                               

How do you plan to spend your life after retiring from college?

The retirement is only from the college activities but not from academic activities.  I will continue to be an academician and engaging myself in teaching in professional institutes where I am invited. I have already published 11 books on different subjects connected with commerce, management and law. Will continue to write them. Therefore, the question does not arise, how I am going to spend my time after retirement. I have no retirement.

                                                            ***

KNOW YOUR MEMBER –CS SHANKAR VENKATRAMAN, CHENNAI

Shankar Venkatraraman is a person with multi dimensional skills. He was blessed with writing the biographies of some great souls ; a friendly professional with great sense of humour. A brief interview with him....

1.Where did you do your schooling and college and what was your basic graduation? How did you start doing CS? 

 

I was born in Chennai (Madras then). Did my schooling at Vidya Mandir Senior Secondary School, Luz, Mylapore (1968-1982) and B.Com from Loyola College, Chennai (1982-85). It was Mr. V.Chandramouli, Company Secretary of Madras Refineries Limited (now CPCL), my mentor, guide and well-wisher who initiated me into the arena of ICSI.

 

2. Tell us about your corporate exposure as CS.

 

Initially I underwent Management Training at MRL, followed by Asst. Company Secretary post with Sri Parvathy Hi-Tech Industries Limited. Then had a brief stint as Assistant Company Secretary with Sri Maruthi Marine Industries Limited (a unit of the Rayalaseema group of companies) before moving on to Shriram Chits Tamilnadu Private Limited as the Company Secretary. From February 2014 onwards, am a Company Secretary in practice. 

  

3. How did you start writing books about famous personalities? Which was the first book in this series?

 

The famous musician-musicologist "Sangita Kalanidhi" Dr. S.Ramanathan and "Daasanjali" M.O.Srinivasan were the two wizards who sowed the seed of documentation in me and initiated me into the world of compiling biographies.

Probably the lineage and music embedded in the genes must have kindled and ignited the spark within me prompting to write books.

 

"Thirai Ulagil Isaik Kalaignargal"(Musicians in the Filmworld) was my first book that was released in  January 2002.    

 4. Tell us about the books that you have written so far.

There are more than 10 publications: 

The special ones are:

1. “Thirai Ulagil Isaik Kalaignargal”.

Serialised first in the Tamil music-dance magazine “Sarigamapadhani”, this project consists of a brief life history of more than 100 musicians.  

2. “Semmangudi Oru Sagaabdham”

Biography of Semmangudi Sreenivasa Iyer as narrated by Sri “Semmangudi Maama” himself from November 2002 upto first week of October 2003.

3. “Engum Nirai Naadha Brahmam”

“Bharat Rathna” M.S.Subbulakshmi’ s biography compiled  under the able guidance of Shri T.Sadasivam and M.S. Amma during frequent visits to their home.

Other books include  “Upanyasa Chakravarthy- Anantharama Deekshithar,  Sabhaa Naayagar” , LALGUDI-80, COLOSSUS OF CARNATIC MUSIC, “Sangeetha Saagaram---Semmangudi,  Harikatha Chakravarthy, “Naadagame Ulagam”

Ongoing projects-----Biography of “Gaana Kalaa Dhara” Madurai Mani Iyer captioned “Eppo Varuvaaro?” Also the full life history of Director K.Subrahmanyam is in progress.

 

5. How was the experience of writing M.S. Subbulakshmi Madam's biography?

 

The experience was something that cannot be explained in words. It had a touch of divinity. Almost 99% of the interview  was with her life companion Shri T.Sadasivam who used to describe her musical journey with interesting anecdotes. The role of M.S. Subbulakshmi was limited to acknowledging her husband's anecdotes with a divine smile.

 

6. And your experience with the legendary Sri Semmangudi Srinivasan??

 

It was Diwali throughout – filled with anecdotes, wit and humour with tonnes of information. It was like a mega project. Commenced in November 2002 and concluded in October 2003. The Doyen Sri Semangudi Srinivasa Iyer was a treasure trove with an amazing memory power. The Sahitya Academy awardee writer Asokamithran liked this biography of Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer very much.

 

7. Please share us information about your family. 

 

My wife Dr R.A.Lukshmi was an Associate Professor, Math Department, Meenakshi College for Women, Chennai.  My daughter S.Jayashree has joined B.Sc. Psychology at Madras School of Social Studies, Egmore, Chennai, after her schooling at Padma Seshadri Bala Bhavan.

 

8. Your experience of managing children and home as a single parent in the last few years.

 

Yes... an unprecedented tsunami snatched away my spouse soon after she received her Doctorate in 2017... A massive cardiac arrest took her away from us orphaning not only my daughter, myself and other family members but hundreds of students of Meenakshi College. She passed away on 19th September 2017.... and within 18 months I lost my mother at the ripe age of 90. By God's grace was able to bring up my only daughter successfully... as a single parent with the able guidance of my in-laws.  

 

9.What are the projects that you are currently in?  

Musical journey of Dr M.L.Vasanthakumari and a short special centenary commemorative programme on Madurai Somasundaram... all for DD Chennai. 

Now you can call me a Company Secretary by profession and a chronicler by passion...!

TRIBUTE TO MRS SARAH AROKIASWAMY,FORMER JT SECRETARY ICSI

Mrs. Sarah Arokiaswamy.. How many memories this name brings !

Still remember the events that happened on the first day I met her.

Year- 1995. I was an ACS Inter student then. Had some issue which was unresolved as a student; went to SIRO office. They directed me to meet the topmost officer of SIRO. I met him; but he said ” Go.. go…go; why are you coming here? You have to write to Delhi; they will reply”. I came out of the room, was having a chat with some staff in the hall. At that time, Sarah madam who had come out of her cabin, asked me “ What is the matter? Why are you standing here?”. I told my problem. She took me to her cabin. Called Delhi office (landline call- no mobiles then); within 2 minutes the issue got resolved.

That day when I walked out of the SIRO office, I was wondering how someone who is sitting in a powerful seat was not willing to help; whereas another officer 1 level below him resolved it in few minutes. I really saw the BIG difference & thought “ When some one is in a chair, they must use it effectively and must help others”

It was the beginning of a lifelong relationship between a Teacher and a student. In the next 3 decades, I had the privilege of moving with her –soon realized that it is her nature to help others.



She was a Teacher/ Mentor for so many students and members; the best part is that she was a friendly and caring teacher. When your mentor is so friendly and caring, what else you need in your life!

When I passed CS Inter, went and informed her; she immediately called Ashok Leyland Mr Kasiraman and informed that she is sending a candidate for training; there was no interview and I joined Ashok Leyland directly. Likewise she was instrumental in getting the first jobs for thousands of students.

After I passed CS final, she suggested me to correct CC Papers (Before writing CS Inter/ Final exams, Students need to write and pass 3 CC Papers). After few years, she asked me to handle CS Oral coaching classes.

When I was a student, one of my aim was to take classes in ACS Institute; when I attended classes at CS Institute, was amazed at the quality of the faculties; since all of them were working people, they shared practical experience along with theory. This had created immense respect over the CS Institute and faculties and I too wanted to handle classes one day. However within 3-4 years of me becoming a member, got the honour of handling classes, thanks to Sarah madam.

She has this knack of finding the talent in the people, help them to know their own talent, encourage them and give opportunities.

However after the first opportunity, she will get a detailed feedback from the students, document it and only if the feedback is good, the concerned person will get future chances.

At some point of time, I realized that she was my role model and there are so many qualities to follow from her.

Whenever any big programs happened at SIRO, I have seen her talking to almost each and every member in the region and discussing all details about them – their job, family, etc. I used to ask her how she remembers each one’s details and she will reply “ It comes over a period of time”

But this networking quality which I imbibed from her is what makes me what I am today.

In 2014 I got elected into the Regional Council and had the great opportunity of moving with her as a Regional Council Member for about 7 years. During this period, I saw on firsthand how much she loves ICSI. For her, ICSI stands first and it is above any other individual occupying whatever big position.

She was thorough in all ICSI guidelines and any council member will always reach out to her for clarifications. Even in the council meeting, if any doubts are asked, she will first tell the guideline without even referring. If still some questions are asked, she will take the guidelines and show where it is written.

She always remains young and look the same person from the time I met her; many members also used to tell her the same compliment.

When I was the council member, realized that she is dealing with tonnes of problems every day; this keeps her mind agile and this is one of the reason for her to remain young.

One hallmark of her is her boldness. She will never be afraid of any situation and will face it bravely and solve it. This is a very rare quality, which I have seldom seen in any other human being.

She wakes up at 4.30 AM every day and does walking for an hour. She is very diet conscious too. Most importantly she always tries to be happy under all the circumstances. Though at times there is some negativity around, still she will remain positive. I realized that taking care of health meticulously and being happy are the 2 reasons behind her youthfulness.

She is a very family oriented person; despite taking that much responsibilities in the ICSI, she spent considerable amount of time for her family. Every day she will cook different dishes for each one in the family – ie 4-5 dishes every day in the morning alone. She cooks personally for each one of them and is an extremely delicious cook.

I have visited her house few times & was amazed how beautifully she has brought up her kids.

She always takes care of the employees of ICSI and they all had highest regard over her. Particularly one of great thing I noticed is how she took care of the people who are last in the hierarchy – those who were not even in the rolls of ICSI. She ensures that they are being paid reasonably well to take care of their family.

She has worked with 30 different Chairman over the past 30 years. Every year she worked with a different boss/ Chairman, which itself is a very challenging task.

Every chairman will discuss all their ideas with her- to know if it is within ICSI guidelines and if it is a workable idea. The execution was entirely taken care by her with a lean team at SIRO.

When she executes, that project will always be a class on its own. When she conducts any program in a hotel, it will always be in the best of the hotels with excellent sponsorships and takeaways for the participants. She always thinks and executes everything in a grandeur manner.

When I was the Chairman, I realized that she was like a Co – Chairperson. Because the responsibilities she carries is much more than that of the Chairman.

Though there were many opportunities for her to move to Delhi which would have brought her all the promotions she richly deserved, being a family oriented person, she stayed in Chennai for most part of her career. This was a great plus for SIRO as it flourished under her able leadership.

For the last 3 decades, SIRC was always appreciated for the best compliance practices and timely submission of all information and data.

She went to Delhi for the last 2 years of her career and made a mark there also. She got a promotion within a short period of moving to Delhi & headed the HR functions of the prestigious ICSI.

I always felt that she is a blessed soul – she always gets the best of everything. She also passes on the blessings she carries to others.

If it is for any other person, for all the challenges she faces, they might have had minimum 200/100 Blood pressure and a 300 + sugar. By God’s grace and because of her good nature and how she has taken care of her physical and mental health, she does not carry any ailment so far. I wish her to live for 100 plus years and continue to guide thousands of members in the years to come.

On a personal note, she has been my Teacher- Mentor- Role model .. above all she was like an elder sister and has always protected me in the toughest situations. I genuinely believe this will continue till the lifetime.

Congratulations Sarah Madam for a wonderful and ever memorable service at ICSI. Please continue to guide us in the decades to come !

How to pass CS Professional - Interview with Kiran, Raja Nila & Srijit Kurup

1.       Hearty Congratulations on CS Professional successfully. How long it took for you to clear the entire course?

 

Kiran: I started this course in Dec 2017 and completed all modules of professional in Dec 2021. It took me 4 years to complete this course.

Raja Nila: Thanks a lot. Actually I started my CS journey in the year 2016 and I have completed it by December 2021. But my success has been definitely delayed by a year due to covid factors.

 

2.       Where did you do your training? How did you manage work and studies?

 

Kiran:I did my training in P. Sriram and Associates. I am not a night person, so I made sure I studied at least 2 hours daily in the morning before work during work days and during the study leave I made sure I utilized the maximum time and I made up a schedule and stuck to it.

 

3.       First Module of CS Professional -please tell us subject wise how to prepare and present.

Kiran: 

GRMCE paper – This subject consists of four parts of which Risk management and compliance covers 30 marks, I made sure I am thorough in these 30 marks and for the governance part there are 11 chapters which I covered based on the scanner weightage and previous years repeated questions which covers 50 marks. With regard to various countries governance aspects try to make notes of every country to a five mark answer and then study that which will be easier to complete.  While presenting answers I wrote everything point wise and kept it as precise as possible.

 

Tax paper – Apart from ICSI material I followed Bangars Tax laws book both for GST, Customs and Direct Tax. Make sure to practice GST sums as much as possible and be thorough with the provisions of the law. Concentrate on Customs equally as questions can be asked from customs beyond the weightage given (which is 10 marks).

 

Drafting paper – This is where we can score more. Initially read the book completely twice and understand the drafts. Practice drafts on your own repeatedly which will make it easy to remember points for each draft as well as manage the time constraint in the exam.

Raja Nila: 

Corporate governance : This paper has been divided into 3 parts. The concept of Risk management and Ethics should be covered first as you can score more in this area. Don’t omit even a single lesson and use institute material only. 

Advance Tax Laws : This paper is too vast , so start preparing and practicing this paper from day 1. Apart from institute material , I referred Bangar's Tax Laws book for this paper and it helped me a lot. Practicing sums are also equally important so that you will get time management. Don’t omit theory part in Direct tax portion. 

Drafting : Drafting will be the scoring paper for almost everyone. The main thing is practice and draft at least one document or letter daily. The paper will be lengthy and if you have writing and drafting practices daily then it will be easy for you to give your best within 3 hours. But don’t omit any theory part. Pleadings part will be some what tough so revise it well twice or thrice before exams.

4.       Second module- This module you had cleared recently; This group has been pretty challenging for many students. Why? How did you prepare and present for this module?

 Kiran:

This module was indeed a challenge for me as I could not clear this in first attempt. The reason why I found it challenging was this module requires more in-depth knowledge on various aspects of Company law, SEBI etc. and various case laws and case studies are also a part of the syllabus and covering the entire syllabus requires more time compared to the other two groups.

 

SACMDD paper – The paper had two parts – first part consisted of 40 marks and seven chapters , which I decided to be thorough on and the second part of 60 marks I prepared based on the previous year question paper weightage and questions.

 

CRILW paper – I focused more on the Insolvency part which covered 50% and for the first part I made sure to have knowledge on mergers and amalgamations (Section 230-240 of Companies Act)

 

RCD paper – This paper was actually a challenge as it had many case laws and provisions of various Acts. I made sure to study all the major case laws as questions were asked from it.

Raja Nila: 

To be frank , I got exactly 150 in this module and yes , it has been pretty challenging for me too. To begin with Secretarial audit , it will be very easy to study but as it is the core paper for our profession, I think the valuation may be some what strict in this particular paper and scoring in this paper is quite challenging. Next coming to Corporate restructuring and insolvency, first try to cover the insolvency portion thoroughly as it is a new concept for us ( So that we have only basics and very easy to cover ) Part A is very vast but you should not omit even a single lesson. All are equally important and practice some sums from CS executive book ( company accounts book ) The last one is Resolution of corporate disputes. This paper has many Case laws. The book seems to be small but quite tough. Practice case laws as much as possible. Try to remember sections for this particular paper. Revision is very important for this paper. 

5.       Third module – Please share your inputs paper wise. Open book exam how to approach?

 Kiran:

CFLSE paper - I focused on listing part as it covered 40 marks and to be thorough in SEBI(LODR) and SEBI(ICDR) regulations as these were the prime areas which were tested in the exam.

 

MDCS paper – I followed Inspire academy notes and the ICSI material. Make sure to take as many bare acts as possible as the Question No: 1 can be asked from any area (In my attempt it came from Labor law, since my elective paper was also labor law it was easy as I had the ICSI material in hand). Questions 2-6 will be from the ICSI material based on the case studies and the additional case study given the back of the material.

 

The format to write answer in the exam:

1)      Brief Facts – Facts to be written from the question given

2)      Decision – Decision as given by the Court or Tribunal for that particular case law

3)      Reason – The reasons for passing the judgment

4)      Conclusion – As per your thoughts whether the person can appeal or cannot appeal for the given case

 

Elective Paper was Labor law for which I followed ICSI material and previous year question Papers

Raja Nila : 

Corporate funding and Listing: First cover the Part B ( listing ) . This will be the scoring part. ICDR portions will be too vast but don’t omit anything. Just try to understand the concepts thoroughly as questions will be surely asked from this portion. 

MCS : In this paper , all the case laws will be asked from the institute material only. Don’t forget to go through the supplements issued by ICSI at least once. Prepare index . The main thing is to find out the case laws from the book. I used YES academy material for format and it will be very easy to study. The open book paper will always be too lengthy and so the time management will be the key factor. The main thing is how much you present it within the given 3 hours. 

Elective paper : My elective paper was labor laws and practice. Most of the questions asked are direct from institute material. I referred my executive book too ( Industrial labor law – old syllabus). Prepare index and take bare Act with you. Quote case laws as much as possible

 

Srijit Kurup

For Tax Vivek Gaba is the best ( Hindi ). Virtual videos

For Drafting,  i used to study from Book called drafting chalisa  ( by Praveen Chaudhary)

I used to study the formats of deeds,  Agreement etc from this book only..

For Elective subject of Insurance,  i covered the study material only and Study material  helped me a lot

6.       What is your future career plans?

Kiran:

Future career plan is to gain enough experience and network and start my own firm and guide aspiring students to become Company Secretaries.

Raja Nila: 

I am planning to go for employment for the next few years and gain experience and knowledge. Then thought of setting up my own office . 

HOW TO PREPARE FOR CS EXAMS : TIPS FROM ANISHA

Hearty Congratulations on CS Professional successfully. How long it took for you to clear the entire course? 

Anisha: Thank you so much. It took me almost 9 years to complete the course (2013-2021). However, alongwith CS, I completed B Com and LLB. 

Were you doing training and writing CS exams simultaneously? If so how did you manage both? 

Anisha: Yes, I was training/working alongwith writing CS Exams. I could manage both because I had generous mentors/employers, who gave me enough time to prepare for exam – like a 20-30 days study leave. Apart from that, I studied everyday for 1-2 hours. Despite all the work, I made sure I revised the subjects regularly. Consistent efforts and patience has helped me clear CS exams. Also, training/working gave me practical exposure of all the Compliances. It helped me understand and remember various concepts, provisions and procedures. 

Please tell how you prepared for CS exams 

Anisha: I prepared for CS exams, firstly, from ICSI Study Materials and Practice Manuals; secondly, Revision classes conducted by ICSI in 2020 (Videos are still available on YouTube -ICSI Channel for Students) and Notes from ACE Academy, Pune. Apart from the above, I prepared my own notes for ready reference and quick revision before exams. Lastly, exam preparation is incomplete without Practice Tests. Practice Tests helped me manage time, improve my writing speed and gave an overall understanding of how to attempt the question paper completely. 

What is your future career plans? 

Anisha: I’m currently working in the Secretarial Department of a Listed Company, based out of Bengaluru, Karnataka. In future, I want to be the Compliance Officer of a listed company and execute Initial Public Offering (IPO). 

INTERVIEW WITH SWATHI- HOW TO PREPARE FOR CS PROFESSIONAL

Greetings! I am Swathi.N. I took up this course with no idea of what it is or how it would be. But later studied about it and realized my decision was correct even though I didn’t know about it completely. I started loving the subjects and it made me believe that landing up in this course was nothing but Destiny’s play. I cleared Module 1 and Module 2 of Executive in December 2019 and December 2020 respectively. I appeared for Module 1 & 3 of Professional Programme in December 2021 and by Almighty’s grace, cleared them. I will be appearing for my Module 2 exams in June 2022. One common thing throughout my CS journey till date is that I was blessed with great Mentors. Their Guidance and the inputs helped me a lot in clearing my exams. I am happy to share my experience and the little inputs hoping that it would help my peers in their journey. I would like to share about my mistakes as well so that those reading this can be cautious and can avoiding doing them. For the friends who have 9 more months for their Professional exams and have not started their training yet, I would very well suggest them to appear for all the 3 modules because the Open book papers are boon given by the Institute to its students and appearing for all the three modules will help with marks set off. Whereas for those people who do not have sufficient time, they could either appear for one module or two modules considering the factors like training, time left for the exams, preparation status, etc. But always trust your instincts; they are messages from your soul.

Hearty Congratulations on passing out 2 modules of CS Professional successfully.

In your very first attempt, you have written 2 modules and passed. Please tell us how you planned and did it.

Thank you so much Sir. Due to some unavoidable circumstances, I was not able to start my preparation as soon as I cleared my Executive exams in December 2020 attempt. I had only 5 to 6 months to prepare for my December 2021 professional exams. So I decided to appear for only 2 modules, i.e; module 1 & 3. I first completed my Open Book Exam papers (Labour Laws was my elective) so that I would feel like there are just 4 more papers to prepare and it can be done comfortably. By then I had purchased all the materials and lectures. I then started the preparation for other 4 subjects. I did not have much time so I had to ensure I understood the concepts at the earliest and learn them simultaneously as I could not afford piling them up for future. I wish I could have planned in such a way that I had some time to take up some test series. But due to time constraint, I was not able to take them up. I would suggest taking up test series as it helps us so much with writing practice and also helps us know where we stand with our exam preparation. Prefer test series where test syllabus is split into 4 or 8 parts than a full portions test. When test series are taken, it could be attempted during the last one month or 45 days revision time and also try to take up the tests within the time allotted for it as time management is the key during the exams. Though you know everything, only when you are able to put it in the paper within 3 hours, you will be able to score well.

What are the books you referred and any useful online classes that you would like to prefer.

Module 1:

GRMCE- It can very well be done on our own. Most of the topics are either already studied in other subjects like Company Law or Securities Law of Executive or Corporate funding of Professional or are very common and general and thus it could be understood very easily.

But for those students who would prefer some formatted material to ICSI Module, I would suggest them to go for GRMCE Book from YES Academy. Wonderful work has been done and it is extremely student friendly with key points highlighted.

TAX- I had purchased Mr. Mohd. Rafi’s Indirect Taxes book from Bharat Publications. It has wonderful content but it is too vast. Than investing in such books you could use the module itself and get a scanner or practice questions book. More the practice more will be the possibility to clear.

DRAFTING- I would very happily suggest taking virtual classes from YES ACADEMY (by Vikas Sir). The material was extremely nice. The classes were so productive and he ensured the students wrote each and every draft in their note. Do watch the demo lectures in YouTube and decide.

Module 3:

CORPORATE FUNDING- I took virtual classes from Inspire Academy (by Shubhamm Sir). I was extremely satisfied with the classes. Just follow the instructions religiously and I think you are half done with your preparations. To be honest, clearing the paper would seem really possible after attending his classes.

MCS- This is a paper which could be done on our own. No classes are required. Preparing an index for all the case laws given would help you very much during the exams. You can use materials from Inspire Academy, i.e; Saarthi (crux of the case), Yoddha (summary of the case). They are available for free in pdf format in their website. Even if you use their material, do not forget to note the page number of the case from the module and Yoddha next to the cases in Saarthi itself which would then serve as an index. This would make easy for attempting Part B of the question paper. Whereas for Part A, it is generally not from the module but based on the chapters given in it. So try to carry materials covering those topics. Say a material for Company law, Securities law, Labour laws, Competition Act, etc;

LABOUR LAWS- Just the module is enough. But edit the module’s index by including all the side headings in it. It helps during the exam to land straight into the page where the topic is given. It saves so much of time and easily helps us complete the paper within 3 hours. Even labour laws can be studied on our own. Also, have a list of important case laws along with its page number.

TEST SERIES- Lately I got to know about online test series. After much search, I got to know about CSTESTSERIES and the reviews have been great. Do check them as it would serve as both revision as well as writing practice.

Many students who want to write 2 modules prefer Module 1 and 3; however very few only crack both together. How can they crack both modules together

In module 1, a check point we have is Tax paper. The portions are so vast that we could appear for Direct and Indirect tax papers separately for 100 marks each and still be left will so much content untouched. So, prepare for this paper with all your possible efforts. Do not aim for ‘just pass’. Prepare for exemption and we will land up with 40 marks at least.

GRMCE is indeed a scoring paper provided you write the answers to the point. I have explained in detail about the preparation and presentation in the next question.

DRAFTING might seem easy to read and understand. But the herculean task lies in drafting the documents and that too within a few minutes during the exam hours. So only writing practice can help you manage time efficiently.

When it comes to Module 3, only Corporate Funding requires learning and understanding concepts. The other two papers are totally based on your strategies, how you implement them and how smartly you act during the 3 hours of exam time. It is generally suggested to choose either Labour Laws or IBC as the elective paper.

Whatever be your choice of 2 modules, do not forget that you can’t take the advantage of ‘marks set off’. You have to clear each module separately. So never ever think about just passing in few papers and scoring 60+ marks in other papers. It is safer to aim for 60+ in all the papers and prepare accordingly. So that, even in the worst case we at least just pass in one paper but clear the group.

4. First Module of CS Professional -Please tell us subject wise how to prepare and present.

GRMCE- It is very easy to understand the concepts. But we have to remember the side headings and not get confused as all the topics may seem similar after having a full reading.

• Try to figure out common points and never miss writing them because even in the case you do not know the exact answer, you can at least write down the common points.

• In your exams, attend the questions in the following order;

1. PART B

2. PART C

3. PART D

4. PART A

Ensure you have only Part A for the last 90 minutes.

TAX- This is that one subject which would literally turnout to be a nightmare if not prepared with consistency. It became one such for me.

• Do read the module at least one time fully. As the portions are vast, questions can be asked from any part and especially from those topics that we would not even have imagined a question could be asked.

• Be strong with the basics.

• Practice as many questions as possible.

• Attend PART B first. Complete it within 1 hour maximum.

DRAFTING- Writing practice is the key. Spending one day for one draft will also be sufficient.

• Though there is no specific mark allocation for drafts and theory questions, on an average drafts and theory are for around 40 marks and 60 marks respectively.

• First attend all the theory questions and then start with the drafts.

• Try not to spend more than 8 minutes for one theory question and 20 minutes for one 10 marks draft question.

• Time management is very important in this paper as it is generally a very lengthy one.

5. Third module of CS Professional – Please share your inputs paper wise. How to approach Open Book Exam?

CORPORATE FUNDING- It requires clear understanding of the concepts. It is very important to remember the limits.

• PART B (LISTING) is very scoring. Simple efforts can itself help you score 20 marks out of 40 marks. Mastering this part will help you fetch more marks in the paper as a whole because most of the exam questions are direct into the topic and not case study based.

• PART A is completely concept based. Efforts have to be put to understand them and remember them.

• In the exam, first attend PART B and then move to PART A.

• Ensure you do not spend more than 75 minutes for PART B.

MCS- Students can score well in this paper provided they identify the cases in a jiffy.

• Read the entire module at least once. For the revision, it is enough to read the summary.

• Writing practice is very important. So practice identifying the cases using the index and also practice presenting them as answer for the question.

• Do not forget to carry your Index. Ensure to have the crux, module page no., summary page no., at one place as it would be easier to land up straight into the case without wasting time in finding where the case is.

• If time permits, customize the index with cases sorted topic wise and section wise as in the case may be. It cuts down the number of cases to check even if you are unable to find the exact case.

• Page flags could be used in the module to easily reach the chapter.

• Do not write the entire case law as it is. Writing the summary alone is sufficient.

• Ensure to write the answer in accordance with the question and do not forget to quote the name of the parties to the case.

• I was personally very much benefitted with Yoddha and Saarthi. I had a customized index which helped me immensely during the exam. It was one of the main reasons I was able to completely attend the paper.

• Whereas for PART A of the question paper, keep materials handy covering the topics given in the module.

• Even though there is no restriction with the number of books to be carried to the exam hall, please carry only those materials that would actually be required. Do not carry a trolley full of books as you won’t have time even to unpack them and search page by page.

• First attend PART B and then proceed with PART A. Try to complete PART B within 90 minutes.

LABOUR LAWS- This is an extremely scoring paper.

• Read the entire module at least once. Highlight the key points.

• Index covering each and every topic and side heading is a must to carry.

• Page flags could be used to identify the Act quickly as there are different Acts in the syllabus and you can’t afford turning pages to find the chapter.

• Have a list of important case laws covered in the module along with its page number.

• It is sufficient to write the key points alone in the answer.

• Do not copy line by line for the answers.

• Just the module alone with index is sufficient to be carried to the exam hall. If necessary, you may carry a Dictionary and Bare Act along with the module.

• There are rare chances for asking a numerical question. So to be on the safer side, carry a calculator as well.

• Even in this paper, attend PART B first. Then proceed with PART A. Ensure to complete PART B within 90 minutes.

6. How to present the answers in the exam?

• Do not beat around the bush. Write specific points.

• Present the answers point wise and not as a paragraph.

• Stick with the planned time for answering the questions. Ensure Time management.

• Try to spend last 5 minutes of the exam time to highlight the key words.

• Answer case study questions (in any subject) in the format said below;

1. Facts of the case

2. Provision

3. Decision

4. Reason

• For MCS paper, attend the case law questions in the format said below;

1. Facts and Question involved

2. Applicable judgment and Provision

3. Conclusion

For any further clarifications or queries regarding exams, you can ping me through WhatsApp. I would be glad to help you by sharing whatever the little I know and also those techniques that helped me.

All the best. Not just for your exams but for all your future endeavors. Always remember “If we fail to prepare, we prepare to fail”

How to prepare for Cs exams: Ms. Saranya & Ms Maithri

                            INTERVIEW ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR CS EXAMS

Hearty Congratulations on completing CS Professional successfully. How long it took for you to clear the entire course?

Ms. Saranya

I started the course in 2009. I appeared for my first Executive exam in December 2009 and second module in June 2010 and cleared the same.

Subsequently I had to take a break from appearing in Professional exam. I cleared one module in Professional Programme in 2014 in old syllabus.

In 2020 I took a break and pursued the professional level continuously.

Ms, Maithri  

I started this wonderful journey right after I passed 12^th. I could clear the foundation with All India 21^st Rank. There was no CSEET at that time. I joined B.Com which was integrated with CS and simultaneously prepared for the Executive program. As I was not taking any coaching, the first executive attempt was a new experience for me. I followed lectures on youtube and did self study for Executive also as I did for Foundation. 

 

I downloaded all the previous Question Papers available on the ICSI website and found out the paper pattern, question types and most important chapters myself. I prepared a plan of action based on all the previous year question papers. I could find that some of the same topics/ questions are asked repeatedly. Based on that plan of action I cleared Executive Module- 1 first and then Module- 2.

 

Then, I directly joined for an internship in a PCS firm in Thiruvananthapuram. I did one year training there and one year in a Govt. Company in Kerala. I then cleared professional program Module-1 first, then Module-2 and finally Module- 3.

Were you doing training and writing CS exams simultaneously? If so how did you manage both?

Ms. Saranya

Yes. I underwent training while appearing for exams. After my working hours at the training office, I had another career also to pursue. I was also working as a manager for a group company. I had to take care of finance and general administration of that company also. So my schedule was pretty tight.

During the COVID lockdown from March 2020 gave me a break from hectic office work. I utilized this period to speed up my preparations. This is how I managed my preparations.


Ms Maithri

Yes, starting days it was difficult for me as that was my first working experience also. But later I could find out that whatever we study we apply in that work life, especially Company Law. I passed the first module during training time only. But, I would like to suggest to my friends to pass the professionals and then go for training as it will obviously be not easy to manage.  

First attempt I wrote both modules together and I found it gives me more pressure. Hence, I chose to concentrate on one module and write both modules exams so that I can get experience in writing exams also. I took 2 months to complete one module and then one time revision only and also invested one month in the other module which I did study without going deep. I could not do many revisions.

Please tell how you prepared for CS exams ; which books to follow and any online classes that will be helpful- (please share only for the subjects that is present now in New syllabus)

Ms. Saranya

With respect to study materials, I relied upon Institute’s books only. I wanted additional help for two subjects, viz., Advanced Tax Law and Financial, Treasury and Forex Management. I attended classroom coaching conducted by Institute’s Coimbatore Chapter for Advanced Tax Law and Online Class for FTFM.

For all the other subjects I used Institute’s study material and supplement. I also referred the Guideline answers for all the subjects published by the Institute. For doubts in specific topics I referred exclusive videos in youtube.

For Advanced Tax Laws, CS Sachin sir’s class was very detailed and easy to understand.

For open book exam, Multi-Disciplinary Case Studies and Electives, I did indexing using sticky notes while going through the study material. It was very helpful. My elective subject was Intellectual Property Rights. So I referred few case laws available in the respective websites and Internet – Trademark, Patent, Geographical Indications, Copyright.

Ms Maithri

As I did the Old syllabus I think it is better if I can share some paper presenting methods with you rather than sharing how to prepare.

a.    Always attempt all the questions. Even if you don’t know the answer just try answering it with whatever knowledge you have that may be related to that. I could find a very positive shift in my marks once I started attending all the questions. And always start the paper with the question you know you will give your best.

b.    Write answer point wise or in small paragraphs. Even if the answer is a little bit lengthy, try to present it in small paragraphs.

c.    Highlight the main points by underlining.

d.    In practical papers such as Advanced Tax and GST always write detailed working notes. We can give like #WN-1, #WN-2 like that.

e.    Try to draw margins on the right side of the paper.

f.     Mention the question number clearly in the space given like “Answer to the Question No;”

g.    Write only one answer on one page. Even if there is only one line written on a page, always start a new question on a fresh page.

h.    Write the sections and case laws only if we have 100 percent confidence that it's right. Don’t write if you are confused.

 

I could score 66 in my Open book so I think I can share some tips I used for Open Book

 

1.    The subject I elected was Intellectual Property Rights. I only used the Guideline answers given by ICSI as my reference material in the exam hall with the ICSI study material. I think too much reference text books will not help us.

2.    I have gone through all the guideline answers of all previous years given by ICSI and prepared a note on which each year what all questions are asked was written. The note contained the question numbers and what was asked so that if any question comes with the same topic (Sometimes same questions also come) we can refer to the ICSI guideline answer and frame our answers accordingly.

3.    Don’t completely copy what is given in the study material. It is better if we give an introduction, conclusion and all. For introduction we can refer to what is given as an introduction to each lesson. For eg.- If there is a question on Copyright we can first give a small intro based on the introduction given for the lesson.

 

Finally, wishing all the very best to all upcoming Company Secretaries. Never ever think about quitting the journey in between or giving up. Though it takes time it is worth investing your time. Also, it is not at all like we can pass only if we go for coaching. Self study can also take us to the destination. Just keep in mind that Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard. Do work hard and success will be yours!

 

What is your future career plans?

Ms. Saranya

I have planned to establish my career as a Practicing Company Secretary throughout South India, specializing in the following apart from secretarial work :

1. Trademark

2. GST

I have also planned to pursue ICSA, UK after completion of 2 years as per the MOU between ICSI and ICSA and bring in good standard and quality to my profession.

I wish to expand my horizon beyond domestic service. These would be my long term vision.