The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has introduced a new professional certification programme titled Data Protection Compliance & Audit Certification (DPCAC). The inaugural batches of the course have been launched at the ICAI Centre of Excellence in Hyderabad through the institute’s Digital Accounting and Assurance Board (DAAB). The programme aims to strengthen professional capabilities in the rapidly evolving fields of data protection, governance, and digital assurance.
According to ICAI, the first batch of the programme received strong participation, with more than 100 members from 16 states registering. Due to the overwhelming response, the institute commenced two batches simultaneously, highlighting the growing professional demand for expertise in data compliance and digital governance frameworks.
Purpose of the DPCAC Programme
The Data Protection Compliance & Audit Certification (DPCAC) programme has been conceptualised in the context of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act). This law establishes a regulatory framework for processing and protecting digital personal data in India.
ICAI stated that the certification is designed to equip chartered accountants with knowledge and practical skills to address regulatory, compliance, and operational challenges arising from the new legislation.
Key learning areas include:
- Data protection compliance frameworks
- Governance structures for digital data
- Consent management mechanisms
- Technical safeguards and cybersecurity controls
- Audit methodologies related to data protection
Programme Structure and Assessment
The DPCAC certification is structured as a three-day intensive programme conducted through classroom learning and practical application modules.
The course includes:
- Conceptual classroom sessions
- Application-based case studies
- A capstone project to test practical understanding
- Assessment mechanisms to evaluate conceptual clarity and professional competence
Through these modules, participants gain hands-on exposure to compliance frameworks and auditing processes related to digital data governance.
Growing Demand for Data Protection Expertise
ICAI noted that the enthusiastic participation in the inaugural batch reflects the increasing demand for professionals skilled in data governance, cybersecurity, and digital regulatory compliance. With India’s digital ecosystem expanding rapidly, organisations require specialists capable of ensuring compliance with emerging data protection laws.
Development of Information Systems Audit Standards (ISAS)
Alongside the certification programme, ICAI has announced the development of a comprehensive Information Systems Audit Standards (ISAS) framework.
The proposed standards will address:
- IT governance frameworks
- Risk management practices
- Internal control systems
- Cybersecurity measures
- Digital data protection compliance
ICAI stated that the upcoming framework will also include dedicated auditing standards for cybersecurity and digital data, aimed at strengthening audit processes in technology-driven environments.
Quick Reference Summary
| Feature | Details |
| Programme Name | Data Protection Compliance & Audit Certification (DPCAC) |
| Conducted By | Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) |
| Organising Body | Digital Accounting and Assurance Board (DAAB) |
| Location of First Batch | ICAI Centre of Excellence, Hyderabad |
| Duration | 3 Days |
| Participants in First Batch | 100+ members from 16 states |
| Focus Areas | Data protection, governance, compliance, digital audit |
| Related Law | Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 |
Why the DPCAC Programme Matters
With businesses increasingly handling large volumes of personal and sensitive digital data, the need for qualified professionals capable of ensuring regulatory compliance has grown significantly. The DPCAC programme positions chartered accountants to play a key role in data governance, regulatory compliance, and digital audit assurance within organisations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| What is the DPCAC programme launched by ICAI? |
| It is a certification course on Data Protection Compliance and Audit designed for chartered accountants. |
| Who launched the DPCAC certification? |
| The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India through its Digital Accounting and Assurance Board. |
| Where was the first batch of the programme conducted? |
| At the ICAI Centre of Excellence in Hyderabad. |
| What law influenced the development of the programme? |
| The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. |
| What topics are covered in the course? |
| Data protection compliance, governance frameworks, consent management, cybersecurity safeguards, and audit methodologies. |
| How long is the DPCAC programme? |
| The certification is structured as a three-day training programme. |
| What is the ISAS framework being developed by ICAI? |
| It is a new set of Information Systems Audit Standards covering IT governance, cybersecurity, and digital data protection. |
| Who can benefit from this certification? |
| Primarily chartered accountants seeking expertise in data protection and digital assurance practices. |
The launch of the DPCAC certification programme by ICAI marks a significant step in strengthening professional capabilities in the field of data protection and digital compliance. As India implements the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, such initiatives will help professionals adapt to evolving regulatory requirements and enhance digital assurance and governance practices. For official updates and programme details, candidates are advised to visit the ICAI official website and bookmark this page for future announcements.
