ICAI Launches Data Protection Compliance & Audit Certification (DPCAC) at Centre of Excellence, Hyderabad

ICAI Launches Data Protection Compliance & Audit Certification (DPCAC) at Centre of Excellence, Hyderabad

New Delhi, Mar 05: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), through its Digital Accounting and Assurance Board (DAAB), has launched the inaugural batches of the Data Protection Compliance & Audit Certification (DPCAC) programme at the ICAI Centre of Excellence. The certification programme received an overwhelming response from members, with over 100 registrations from 16 states in its very first offering.

Due to the strong participation, two batches were commenced simultaneously, highlighting the increasing professional demand in the fields of data protection, governance, and digital assurance.

The DPCAC course has been designed in line with the implementation of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, which establishes a structured compliance framework for the processing and protection of digital personal data in India. The certification aims to build professional capacity in data protection compliance, governance frameworks, consent management, technical safeguards, and audit methodologies.

Speaking on this milestone, Prasanna Kumar D, President of ICAI, emphasised the importance of strengthening professional capabilities in emerging domains such as data protection and digital governance.

He said,

“DPCAC is a forward-looking initiative designed to build capacity in compliance, digital governance and emerging practice areas such as data protection audits and Virtual DPO services. Through a blend of legal insight and practical application, this certification will strengthen professional competence, enhance stakeholder trust and reinforce the profession’s role in nation-building.”

Mangesh Pandurang Kinare, Vice-President of ICAI, added,

“The launch of DPCAC marks an important step in strengthening the profession’s preparedness for emerging regulatory frameworks. Data governance is no longer optional; it is integral to organisational accountability. Chartered Accountants are uniquely positioned to provide assurance and advisory services in this evolving landscape, and this programme equips members with the competencies required to lead in this domain.”

The three-day programme includes structured modules, application-based use cases, and a capstone project, supported by assessment mechanisms designed to ensure both conceptual clarity and practical competence.

Alongside this initiative, ICAI is also developing Information Systems Audit Standards (ISAS) to strengthen audit processes within India’s rapidly evolving digital ecosystem. As the first accounting body globally to introduce such standards, ICAI aims to empower Chartered Accountants to deliver world-class digital assurance. The ISAS framework will cover key areas such as IT governance, risk management, internal controls, cybersecurity, and digital data protection, including dedicated auditing standards on cybersecurity and digital data.

These initiatives underscore the evolving role of Chartered Accountants in the digital economy, extending beyond traditional financial reporting to strategic governance advisory roles. Through programmes such as DPCAC, ICAI reaffirms its commitment to equipping members with future-ready skills aligned with India’s rapidly advancing digital and regulatory landscape.