What are the purpose of meeting minutes?

What are the purpose of meeting minutes?
'Minutes of the meeting' is a compilation of the points discussed at a meeting. The Minutes include details like the date of the meeting, agenda for the meeting and list of attendees, followed by the points discussed.
It serves to keep a track on the progress of the actionables discussed and one can refer back to the Minutes to take stock of the current status.
The minutes are usually circulated by either the secretary or else by someone who takes part in the discussion.