Nidhi in the Indian context / language means “TREASURE”. However, in the Indian financial sector it refers to any mutual benefit society notified by the Central / Union Government as a Nidhi Company. It is recognized under section 406 of the Companies Act 2013.It is one that belongs to the non-banking Indian finance sector.
Nidhi Company registration is simple and less complexed as compared to other types of finance companies like NBFC which require RBI license to start. A Nidhi Company can be started with an initial capital of Rs.5 lakh and require at least seven people to start with. Nidhi Company registration also require three directors initially.
But now as per new Nidhi rules at least initial capital of Rs. 20,00,000 (Rupees Twenty Lakh) to commence business of Nidhi Limited. However, you may incorporate nidihi company with capital of Rs. 500,000(Rupees Five Lakh) but after incorporation you have to increase your Net worth to commence business.
The companies doing Nidhi business are known under different names like Permanent Fund, Benefit Funds, Mutual Benefit Funds and Mutual Benefit Company.
They are mutual benefit societies as their dealings are restricted to its members and the membership is limited. The source of funds for such a society is the contribution from its members. Loans thus given out are at reasonable rates and most of the loans are for construction of house, or repairs. Loans are generally secured