ICAI to launch new accounting course to train Corporate Mitras

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is set to launch a new accounting course aimed at strengthening support for small businesses, particularly in non-metro cities and smaller towns. The programme is expected to be ready by 1st July, according to ICAI president Prasanna Kumar D.

He said a 21-member committee, comprising members of the self-regulator’s council and external professionals, is currently designing the modular course in consultation with the ministries of corporate affairs and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“The scheme will be ready for launch by 1 July, designated as Chartered Accountants Day, but the decision to roll it out rests with the government,” Kumar said. Chartered Accountants Day marks the establishment of ICAI in 1949.

The proposal to introduce such a course was announced earlier this year by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her Budget 2026 speech. She had stated that the government would enable professional institutions such as ICAI to design short-term courses and practical tools to create a cadre of ‘corporate mitras’, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

These accredited professionals are expected to help small businesses meet compliance requirements at affordable costs. The course curriculum, duration and eligibility criteria are currently being finalised. According to Kumar, the initiative will also create meaningful employment opportunities for candidates.

Experts say the corporate Mitra framework could play a transformative role in bridging last-mile compliance gaps for MSMEs.