The ‘Two-Day Familiarisation Programme for Independent Directors,’ organized by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), drew to a close in Goa today. This program stands as one among the many ongoing efforts by IICA to enhance corporate governance practices in India. The inauguration was spearheaded by Shri Jayant Arya, the Registrar of Companies and Official Liquidator for the State of Goa. With an impressive turnout, more than 45 directors hailing from diverse sectors, including both public and private corporations, government agencies, and PSUs across India, actively participated in this educational initiative. Their varied backgrounds contributed to a rich pool of collective knowledge and expertise during the event.
The program commenced with an enlightening address by Dr. Niraj Gupta, the Head of the School of Corporate Governance & Public Policy at IICA, setting the stage for the extensive topics slated for discussion. A lineup of esteemed speakers graced the event, including luminaries such as Mr. Ajay Nanavati, former Managing Director of 3M India and ex-Chairperson of Syndicate Bank; Dr. Anup K Pujari, former Secretary in the Government of India; Dr. Anil Khandelwal, former Chairman of Bank of Baroda; Mr. Sharad Abhyankar, Partner at Khaitan & Co; Mr. Vivek Talwar, former Head of Tata Sustainability Group; Mr. Nawshir Mirza, a professional Independent Director; and CA Shri Gyan P. Pipara, Managing Partner at Pipara & Co.
Guided by Dr. Niraj Gupta and managed by Chief Programme Executives Shri Manoj Singh and Shri Mathew John, IICA aimed to deliver impactful learning experiences and insights relevant to the roles and responsibilities of independent directors.
About the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA):
As the apex think tank under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs endeavors to elevate corporate governance practices, promote ethical business conduct, and uphold the highest standards within the Indian corporate domain. One of its key initiatives is the Independent Director Databank & Certification program, which mandates certification for individuals aspiring to serve on company boards in India. This initiative, among others, strives to elevate the caliber of boardroom governance, discussions, and efficacy in the Indian corporate sphere.