(1) Any person possessing the qualifications and experience required under sub-rule (2) of rule 13 may apply for recognition to the competent authority designated by the State Government for this purpose.
(2) The competent authority after making such enquiry as it deems fit, may grant or refuse to grant recognition and where recognition is refused, the competent authority shall record reasons in writing and communicate the same to the applicant.
(3) A recognition shall be granted for an initial period of ten years and may be renewed for further periods not exceeding ten years at a time:
Provided that the competent authority may refuse to renew recognition for reasons to be recorded in writing after giving an opportunity of hearing to the person concerned