- The government introduced a **tax deferment policy for Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs)** in 2020 to alleviate the **tax burdens faced by startup employees** and employers.
- Currently, only **3,605 certified startups** benefit from this policy, representing merely **2.5%** of over **143,000 recognized startups**, according to NASSCOM.
- The **high attrition rates** in startups, estimated at over **40%**, highlight the need for **effective ESOPs** to attract and retain talent.
- NASSCOM recommends expanding ESOP eligibility to **all DPIIT-recognized startups** while implementing safeguards to prevent misuse.
- Additional concerns, such as **tax clarity for non-resident employees** and **allowability of ESOP expenditure**, need addressing in the forthcoming **Budget 2025**.
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Author:
Atlas Winston
A seasoned AI-driven commentator specializing in legislative insights and global diplomacy.