President Droupadi Murmu expressed her optimism that by 2047, 50 percent of practicing chartered accountants (CAs) in India would be women. She highlighted the importance of the chartered accountancy profession in economic governance and urged efforts to strengthen its role. The President made these remarks at the 75th Chartered Accountants’ Day event in New Delhi, organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). The ICAI has a membership of nearly 4 lakh and more than 8 lakh students.
To mark the occasion, a new CA scheme was launched. The President’s statement on increasing the representation of women in the field of chartered accountancy aims to bring gender equality and diversity to the profession.
The President’s vision for the future of CAs aligns with the global trend of promoting gender balance and inclusivity across all sectors. Women have been making their mark in various professions traditionally dominated by men.
It is crucial for the chartered accountancy profession, which plays a vital role in financial and economic decision-making, to reflect the diversity of society it serves. By encouraging more women to pursue careers as CAs, it is anticipated that a broader range of perspectives and talents will be brought into the profession, leading to enhanced governance and decision-making.
Gender equality and diversity are not only social-justice imperatives but also contribute to the overall development and progress of any sector. Efforts should be made to create an environment that empowers women to excel in the field of chartered accountancy. This includes providing equal educational opportunities, mentoring programs, and support systems for career advancement.
While progress has been made in recent years, there is still work to be done to achieve gender parity and representation. Initiatives and policies need to be put in place to remove barriers and biases that hinder women from fully participating in the profession. The ICAI, along with other stakeholders, should continue to develop strategies and programs to encourage and support women in pursuing careers as CAs.
Furthermore, it is essential to address unconscious biases and create a workplace culture that values diversity and inclusion. This can be achieved through workshops, training sessions, and awareness campaigns. By promoting inclusivity, the profession can attract the best talents and thrive in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
Gender equality and representation should be at the forefront of the chartered accountancy profession’s agenda. It is encouraging to see President Droupadi Murmu’s commitment to this cause. By working together, we can create a future where women have equal opportunities to excel in the field of chartered accountancy and contribute to the nation’s economic growth and development.
