Board meetings under section 173: the 30-day first meeting, the 120-day gap and the lighter rule for small companies

Last updated 22 Oct 2026 · India

Short answer. Under section 173, a company holds its first board meeting within 30 days of incorporation, then at least four meetings a year with no more than 120 days between two consecutive meetings. Each meeting needs at least 7 days' written notice to every director. A One Person Company, small company or dormant company complies by holding at least one meeting in each half of the calendar year, at least 90 days apart; an OPC with only one director need not hold board meetings.

Which rule applies to you

Company	Minimum meetings	Gap
Private or public company (general rule)	4 a year	Not more than 120 days
Small company, OPC, dormant company	1 in each half of the calendar year	At least 90 days
OPC with one director	Not required	–

Running a valid meeting

Written notice at least 7 days before, to every director's registered address (email works)
Shorter notice is possible for urgent business with at least one independent director present, where the company has one
Meetings may be held by video conferencing, subject to the rules
Minutes signed within 30 days and kept at the registered office

Common mistakes

No first meeting in month one. It is also when the first auditor is usually appointed.
Meetings bunched in March. A 121-day gap breaks the rule even with four meetings.
Notice only on WhatsApp with no record of delivery to each director.
Minutes written months later.

Checklist

First meeting date within 30 days of incorporation
Four dates planned, gaps under 120 days
Notice sent 7 days before, with proof
Minutes signed within 30 days

Frequently asked questions

When must the first board meeting be held?

Within 30 days of the date of incorporation (section 173(1)).

What is the maximum gap between two board meetings?

120 days, with at least four meetings a year, for companies under the general rule.

How many board meetings must a small company hold?

At least one in each half of the calendar year, with a gap of at least 90 days (section 173(5)).

What notice is needed for a board meeting?

At least 7 days' written notice to every director (section 173(3)).

Official sources

Not tax or legal advice. This is a free explainer of public rules; deadlines and rules can change by notification, so confirm on the official portal or with your CA before you file. Last checked 22 Oct 2026.

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