India's Ministry of Corporate Affairs recently revised the rules that apply to the issue of identification numbers to directors of Indian companies and designated partners of limited liability partnerships.
Previously, an individual had to obtain a director identification number (DIN) before becoming a director in an Indian company, and obtain a separate designated partner identification number (DPIN) before becoming a designated partner in a limited liability partnership.
Now, following a recent circular, individuals need only obtain a DIN and this number can also be used as a DPIN in a limited liability partnership. If an individual previously obtained a DIN, the old DIN will now also operate as a DPIN and the facility works the other way too, i.e., a prior DPIN can now also be used as a DIN.
In addition, the circular requires all individuals who have previously obtained a DIN or DPIN to provide the Ministry with their income-tax permanent account numbers by September 30, 2011. Failure to do so could result in the individual's DIN and DPIN numbers being disabled and possible penalties being imposed.