Discuss the various forms of capital and what are the guidelines given by SEBI towards improving disclosure standards?

All organizations depend on various forms of capital for their success. It is important that all such forms of capital are disclosed to stakeholders to enable informed investment decision making. IIRC (International Integrated Reporting Council) has categorized the forms of capital as follows: Financial capital Manufactured capital Intellectual capital Human capital Social and relationship capital Natural capital It has been observed that certain listed entities in India and other jurisdictions have already been making disclosures by following the principles of integrated reporting. Towards the objective of improving disclosure standards, in consultation with industry bodies and stock exchanges, the listed entities have been advised to adhere to the following by the SEBI: (a) Integrated Reporting may be adopted on a voluntary basis from the financial year 2017-18 by top 500 companies which are required to prepare BRR. (b) The information related to Integrated Reporting may be provided in the annual report separately or by incorporating in Management Discussion & Analysis or by preparing a separate report (annual report prepared as per IR framework). (c) In case the company has already provided the relevant information in any other report prepared in accordance with national/international requirement/framework, it may provide appropriate reference to the same in its Integrated Report so as to avoid duplication of information. (d) As a green initiative, the companies may host the Integrated Report on their website and provide appropriate reference to the same in their Annual Report.