The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) successfully concluded the inaugural batch of its Certified Arbitration Program (ICAP) with a Valedictory Session held on 12th October 2025 at the IICA Campus in Manesar. Organized by the Centre of Excellence in Alternative Dispute Resolution (CEADR), the program aimed to cultivate a new generation of global arbitration professionals. The two-day campus immersion and valedictory event commenced on 11 October 2025 with an inauguration by Justice Hemant Gupta, Chairperson of the India International Arbitration Centre. Justice Gupta praised IICA’s efforts in bolstering India’s arbitration ecosystem and highlighted the importance of a robust alternative dispute resolution system to foster investor confidence and ensure effective arbitration proceedings.
During the event, Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh, Director-General & CEO of IICA, extended a warm welcome to distinguished guests including Dr. Rajiv Mani, Secretary of the Legislative Department, Ministry of Law & Justice, and Prof P K Malhotra, Former Law Secretary. Singh emphasized the need for standardization within India’s arbitration landscape through institutional arbitration and discussed ongoing issues related to the enforceability of arbitral awards. Prof Malhotra acknowledged the immense potential of Indian arbitration professionals but expressed concerns over the current supporting ecosystem, advocating for the establishment of the Arbitration Council of India to facilitate more effective functioning.
In his address, Dr. Rajiv Mani highlighted the significance of arbitration in India’s dispute resolution framework, referencing its preference by the constitution makers during the country’s transitional constitutional period. He stressed the importance of shifting mindsets and approaches towards embracing arbitration as an alternative to traditional court litigation. Concluding the event, Prof (Dr) Naveen Sirohi, Head of CEADR, expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, delegates, and organizers for their support and insights, reaffirming IICA’s commitment to advancing arbitration and dispute resolution in India.
