IICA in partnership with DG Resettlement (DGR), Ministry of Defence holds its Fourth Batch of Directors' Certification in Corporate Governance for Defence Officers

**Executive Summary** The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) and the Directorate General Resettlement (DGR) of the Ministry of Defence have launched the Fourth Batch of their Directors' Certification in Corporate Governance for Defence Officers. This two-week program, which commenced on March 9th, 2026, aims to equip senior defence officers with the knowledge and skills for effective board membership in public and private sector companies. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Program Inauguration:** The Fourth Batch of the Directors' Certification in Corporate Governance for Defence Officers was inaugurated on March 9th, 2026, at the IICA Campus in Manesar, Gurugram. * **Collaboration:** The program is a joint initiative between the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) and the Directorate General Resettlement (DGR), Ministry of Defence. * **Target Audience:** The two-week certification program is designed for senior officers, both serving and recently superannuated, from all three services of the Indian Armed Forces. * **Program Objectives:** * To orient participants with the conceptual and regulatory framework of corporate governance. * To prepare participants for effective board membership in public and private sector companies. * To equip participants with an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of an Independent Director. * To enable participants to contribute meaningfully to corporate boards using their experience in leadership, strategy, information technology, cyber security, and project management. * **Emphasis on Defence Officers' Value:** The program highlights the transition from military to corporate service, emphasizing the value senior defence officers bring to boardrooms through their experience in high-stakes decision-making, institutional leadership, and integrity. * **Alignment with Government Vision:** The program supports the Ministry of Corporate Affairs' vision for advancing India's corporate disclosure framework, aligning domestic norms with global ESG standards, and promoting trust-based regulation and ease of doing business. * **Executive Search Insights:** Special addresses provided insights into the evolving expectations of corporate boards, selection criteria for board appointments, and practical pathways for senior defence officers seeking independent directorship roles. **Impact Analysis** **Senior Defence Officers** * **Impact:** Participants will gain an understanding of corporate governance principles and regulations, enhancing their preparedness for board membership. They will learn about the roles of an Independent Director and how to leverage their existing skills for corporate boards. The program also aims to position them effectively for directorship roles. * **Action Required:** Attend the two-week certification program to gain the necessary knowledge and skills. **Corporate Boards (Public and Private Sector)** * **Impact:** Boards may benefit from the inclusion of experienced senior defence officers who bring valuable skills in leadership, strategic decision-making, and integrity, potentially leading to improved governance and oversight. * **Action Required:** Consider senior defence officers for board positions, recognizing their potential contributions. **Ministry of Corporate Affairs and IICA** * **Impact:** These entities advance India's corporate disclosure framework and promote good governance by facilitating the development of a pipeline of qualified individuals for corporate boards. * **Action Required:** Continue to facilitate and promote such programs to enhance corporate governance standards. **Directorate General Resettlement (DGR)** * **Impact:** DGR supports the transition of defence officers into civilian roles by providing them with relevant certifications and opportunities for board-level engagement. * **Action Required:** Continue partnering with IICA for such initiatives to aid the resettlement of defence officers.

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