Dear Esteemed Members,

Warm greetings from the Bengaluru Branch of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India

As we usher in the New Year 2026, it is my privilege to share a snapshot of the impactful professional, academic, and outreach initiatives undertaken by our Branch during December 2025, while also highlighting key learning opportunities scheduled for January 2026. Your active participation and encouragement continue to inspire us to raise the bar in serving the profession.

Warm Greetings on Makara Sankranti / Pongal & Advance Republic Day Wishes

Warm wishes to all the esteemed Members, CA Students, Bengaluru Branch Staff, and their family members on the auspicious occasion of Makara Sankranti / Pongal

May this harvest festival bring prosperity, good health, happiness, and success into your lives and mark the beginning of new opportunities and achievements.

We also extend our advance greetings on the occasion of the Republic Day of India, wishing everyone continued progress, unity, and pride in our nation.

Professional Development & Knowledge Initiatives

The month of December witnessed a series of engaging Study Circle Meetings, including sessions conducted at Whitefield, providing members with a collaborative forum for in-depth discussions and practical insights.

An Intensive Workshop on the New Income Tax Act, 2025 was organized and received an excellent response, offering clarity on the structural changes, transition provisions, and practical implications of the new law.

Further, Study Circle Meetings on the New Labour Codes enabled members to gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving compliance framework impacting employers and professionals.

Technology & Future-Ready Learning

In line with the profession’s transition towards technology-driven services, the Certificate Course on Artificial Intelligence for Chartered Accountants was successfully conducted, equipping members with actionable insights into leveraging AI across audit, taxation, finance, and advisory domains.

Extending this learning to the student community, AURA – a Course on Artificial Intelligence for CA Students was conducted during December 2025 at our new Rajajinagar premises. The program was well received and reflects our commitment to nurturing future-ready professionals from the early stages of their journey.

Outreach & Capacity Building

The Branch organized an Awareness Outreach Program for Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) under the Income-tax Act, reinforcing the role of Chartered Accountants in strengthening compliance and governance frameworks within public institutions.

Students & Young Members Initiatives

The 63rd Campus Placement Orientation Program was conducted to prepare aspiring Chartered Accountants with essential guidance on placement processes, professional expectations, and career pathways.

A proud and memorable milestone was the Convocation Ceremony for Newly Qualified Chartered Accountants, more than 1500 newly qualified CAs were convocated on 29^th December 2025, celebrating the achievements of our newest members. On behalf of the Branch, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all newly qualified Chartered Accountants and wish them a successful and fulfilling professional journey.

Flagship Event – GCC Summit

The GCC Summit emerged as a landmark event, witnessing the highest-ever number of delegates ( 1023 Delegates ) over two impactful days, under the leadership of our Central Council Member, CA. Madhukar N Hiregange. The summit featured powerful sessions by eminent industry leaders and subject-matter experts, offering valuable insights into Global Capability Centers, emerging trends, and strategic opportunities for the profession. The overwhelming response stands testimony to the growing influence and thought leadership of the Bengaluru Branch.

These sessions witnessed enthusiastic participation from Members, reflecting the hunger for knowledge and adaptation in our ever-evolving profession. Totally 138 hours of CPE deliberations was done and around 4400 Members participated in the events.

Programs Scheduled – January 2026

Looking ahead, I am pleased to inform members that the following key programs are scheduled during January 2026:

·       Certificate Course on Concurrent Audit of Banks

·       Diploma in Systems Audit (DISA) for Members

These programs aim to enhance domain expertise and open new professional avenues in specialized practice areas.

Way Forward

As we move forward in 2026, the Bengaluru Branch remains steadfast in its commitment to professional excellence, continuous learning, innovation, and inclusive growth. I look forward to your continued support, participation, and valuable suggestions as we collectively shape the future of our profession.

Wishing you and your families a happy, healthy, and professionally rewarding New Year

“Together, let us uphold the values of integrity, competence, and innovation in the service of the profession and society.”

Warm regards,

CA. Manjunath M Hallur

Chairman,

ICAI Bengaluru Branch (SIRC)