Current Context: On 31 July 2026, SEBI extended the deadline for regulated entities to complete digital accessibility audits and rectify identified issues to 31 October 2026.
- The extension applies to investor-facing digital platforms such as websites, mobile applications and online service portals.
- The purpose is to make securities-market services accessible to persons with disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
- Other digital accessibility requirements remain unchanged and regulated entities must continue complying with the existing framework.
- On 30 July 2026, SEBI introduced the GARUDA mechanism, meaning Green-Channel: AIF Rollout Upon Document Acknowledgement.
- Under GARUDA, regular Alternative Investment Fund schemes can be launched after 10 working days of filing the Placement Memorandum with SEBI, unless the regulator directs otherwise.
- Accredited Investor-only schemes and Angel Funds can be launched immediately after registration or filing, subject to prescribed declarations and compliance requirements.
- The framework aims to reduce delays, simplify AIF launches and enable faster deployment of investment capital without removing regulatory oversight.
- SEBI is simultaneously promoting digital inclusion for investors and simplifying fund-launch procedures. The measures balance investor protection with ease of doing business in India’s securities market.
Question:
Q1.What is the main purpose of SEBI’s GARUDA mechanism?a) To regulate digital-payment applications
b) To accelerate the launch of AIF schemes
c) To provide loans to investment funds
d) To audit stock exchanges
Answer: b) GARUDA allows eligible AIF schemes to be launched through faster and clearly defined filing procedures, while retaining SEBI’s regulatory supervision.
c) To provide loans to investment funds
d) To audit stock exchanges
Answer: b) GARUDA allows eligible AIF schemes to be launched through faster and clearly defined filing procedures, while retaining SEBI’s regulatory supervision.
