ICAI introduces specialized course on digital data compliance and audit

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India has initiated its Data Protection Compliance and Audit Certification program with the commencement of the first batches at its Center of Excellence in Hyderabad, expanding its professional offerings in the digital compliance domain.

The certification has been introduced by ICAI through its Digital Accounting and Assurance Board. The institute reported that over 100 members representing 16 states enrolled in the inaugural cohort.

Following the high level of interest, two batches were launched concurrently. ICAI indicated that the response underscores rising professional focus on data governance, privacy compliance, and digital audit practices.

The program has been developed in light of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, which establishes a statutory compliance structure governing the handling of digital personal data in India.

ICAI said that the certification is designed to enhance professional expertise in compliance management, data governance frameworks, consent architecture, technology safeguards, and audit techniques.

The objective is to prepare chartered accountants to navigate the regulatory and operational implications emerging from the new data protection regime.

The course runs for three days and integrates structured classroom instruction, practice-oriented case analysis, and a final capstone assignment.

The institute said the assessment model has been structured to evaluate both conceptual understanding and applied proficiency.

Through the introduction of the DPCAC program, ICAI aims to strengthen the profession’s readiness to operate within an increasingly technology-driven and regulation-intensive environment.

In parallel, the institute is working on a comprehensive Information Systems Audit Standards framework.

ICAI said the proposed standards will address critical areas such as IT governance systems, risk oversight, internal control mechanisms, cybersecurity architecture, and digital data safeguards.

The framework is expected to incorporate specialized audit standards focused on cybersecurity and digital data management.

ICAI said that this initiative is intended to modernize audit practices and reinforce digital assurance capabilities in complex technological ecosystems.