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IIA India International Conference 2025

Sets New Standards in Internal Audit

The IIA India International Conference 2025, hosted by the IIA Mumbai Chapter, emerged as
a landmark event for professionals in internal audit and GRC, attracting over 500 global attendees.
Guided by the theme “Elevate Your Impact, Amplify Your Influence,” the event fostered vibrant
discussions, innovative ideas, and valuable networking opportunities, setting a high benchmark for
future conferences.

A standout session titled “Balancing Innovation and Risk – Role of Internal Audit in Startup Success”
featured insights from Mr. Ronnie Screwvala, Chairman & Co-Founder of upGrad.com, and Mr.
Burzin Dubash, President of IIA India. The speakers underscored that startups must integrate robust
internal audit functions to manage the inherent risks of rapid innovation. Screwvala emphasized that
maintaining a balance between breakthrough innovation and disciplined risk management is essential
for sustainable growth. Complementing this, Dubash highlighted internal audit’s evolving role as a
strategic partner, vital for driving efficiency and instilling investor confidence.

Adding to the forward-thinking dialogue, Mr. Anthony Pugliese, President and CEO of IIA Inc.,
remarked on the pivotal transformation within the internal audit profession. Citing recent research
where 56% of respondents acknowledged a significant shift, he stressed that embracing technology,
understanding stakeholder perceptions, expanding the scope of work, and strengthening the talent
pipeline are crucial steps to navigate this evolution.

Further discussions reinforced that governance, ethics, and integrity remain the foundation of
sustainable business practices. Mr. M. Damodaran, Chairperson of Excellence Enablers, emphasized
that good governance should be intrinsic and not just regulatory compliance. He pointed out that
internal audit plays a critical role in safeguarding business integrity, and its effectiveness is maximized
when it reports directly to the audit committee rather than operational executives.

The conference also explored the transformative role of technology in internal audit, with discussions
highlighting that AI, data analytics, and risk-sensing tools are shaping the future of the profession.
Insights from Mr. Sachin Tayal, Managing Director at Protiviti, emphasized that high-impact reporting,
technological enablement, and innovation are essential for the continued relevance of internal audit.

Overall, the IIA India International Conference 2025 not only celebrated achievements in internal
audit and GRC but also charted a clear path forward. The discussions reaffirmed that robust audit
practices, coupled with a commitment to governance and technological innovation, can drive business
transformation while safeguarding organizational integrity in today’s fast-paced environment

21 INTERNAL AUDIT TODAY