SEBI Niveshak Shivir to Assist Investors with Unclaimed Dividends and Shares

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) are set to host the 8th Niveshak Shivir on November 17, 2026, at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi. This initiative aims to assist investors facing issues related to unclaimed dividends, lost shares, and pending claims. The outreach program will run from 10 AM to 4 PM, providing a platform for shareholders to seek guidance and support from various market infrastructure institutions (MIIs) and registrar and transfer agents (RTAs).

According to a SEBI press release dated November 12, the event is designed to facilitate direct interaction between investors and financial institutions, helping to resolve a range of issues that have long plagued shareholders. The collaboration with MIIs such as BSE, CDSL, NSE, and NSDL, along with RTAs like KFin Technologies and MUFG Intime India, underscores the comprehensive approach being taken to address investor grievances.

The Niveshak Shivir will be held at Jacaranda Hall, India Habitat Centre, located near Air Force Bal Bharati School, Lodhi Road, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi. Entry will be granted through Gate No. 3 on Vardhaman Marg. Investors are encouraged to bring along an official government identity document, such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, or driving license, to facilitate entry.

In addition to identification, participants should carry relevant documents, including share certificates, records of unpaid dividends, and any claim-related paperwork. This documentation will assist the institutions present in identifying and addressing specific grievances effectively.

Unclaimed dividends and lost shares represent a significant issue within the Indian investment landscape. According to DotMR analysis, it is estimated that over ₹1 lakh crore in unclaimed dividends and shares are currently lying dormant, affecting millions of investors. The Niveshak Shivir aims to mitigate this problem by providing a structured environment for investors to resolve their issues.

The participation of RTAs is particularly crucial, as they maintain shareholder records and facilitate services such as dividend payments and transfers. By bringing these entities together, SEBI and IEPFA hope to streamline the process for investors, making it easier to reclaim their rightful investments.

The involvement of major MIIs in the Niveshak Shivir is a strategic move to enhance investor confidence and participation in the capital markets. BSE, CDSL, NSE, and NSDL play pivotal roles in the functioning of the Indian securities market, and their presence at the event signifies a commitment to investor education and protection.

These institutions will provide insights into the processes involved in reclaiming unclaimed dividends and shares, as well as guidance on how to navigate the complexities of investment claims. This collaborative effort is expected to empower investors with the knowledge and resources necessary to take control of their financial futures.

The Niveshak Shivir is not just a one-time event; it represents a broader initiative by SEBI and IEPFA to foster a culture of investor awareness and protection. By addressing the issues of unclaimed dividends and lost shares, the event aims to encourage more individuals to participate in the capital markets, ultimately contributing to the growth of the Indian economy.

As the financial landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like the Niveshak Shivir will play a crucial role in ensuring that investors are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate their investment journeys successfully. The outcomes of this event could set a precedent for future investor outreach programs, emphasizing the importance of proactive engagement between regulatory bodies and the investing public.

The Niveshak Shivir is a vital step towards resolving long-standing issues faced by investors in India. By providing a platform for direct interaction with financial institutions, SEBI and IEPFA are taking significant strides towards enhancing investor confidence and participation in the capital markets.