The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is set to introduce a new accounting course aimed at building a skilled cadre of professionals to support small businesses, particularly in non-metro cities and smaller towns. The course is expected to be launched by July 1, aligning with Chartered Accountants Day.
ICAI President Prasanna Kumar D stated that the initiative is designed to equip professionals with the expertise required to deliver cost-effective and compliance-focused services to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The move is seen as part of a broader push to strengthen grassroots-level financial and compliance support systems.
According to Kumar, a 21-member expert committee—comprising members from ICAI’s regulatory council as well as external professionals—is currently working on designing the modular course. The curriculum is being developed in consultation with key government bodies, including the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and the Ministry of MSMEs. Details regarding course structure, duration, and eligibility criteria are still under finalisation.
The concept of such a course was first highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during her Union Budget speech earlier this year. She had emphasized the need for professional institutions like ICAI to create short-term, practical programmes to train “corporate mitras”—a new class of para-professionals who can assist small businesses in meeting regulatory requirements.
These trained professionals are expected to play a key role in bridging compliance gaps faced by MSMEs, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. By offering services such as return filing assistance, documentation support, and basic compliance advisory, they could significantly reduce the cost and complexity of regulatory adherence for small enterprises.
Experts believe the initiative could have far-reaching implications. By making compliance services more accessible and affordable, the programme may improve voluntary compliance, minimise errors, and encourage informal businesses to transition into the formal economy.
The ICAI’s effort is also expected to generate new employment opportunities, especially for aspiring professionals seeking roles in advisory and compliance services. With MSMEs forming the backbone of India’s economy, the proposed course is seen as a timely intervention to strengthen institutional support and promote sustainable business growth.
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