⁶⁶[Prescribed authority for approval of companies carrying on scientific research and development.

18D. (1) For the purposes of sub-section (8A) of section 80-IB, the prescribed authority shall be the Secretary, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India.

(2) The prescribed authority shall initially grant approval to a company carrying on scientific research and development for a period of three assessment years and subject to satisfactory performance of that company on periodic review extend the said approval for a further period of three assessment years so that the total period of approval is for ten consecutive assessment years, beginning from the initial assessment year.