The global risk landscape for organizations is changing due to geopolitical developments, economic volatility, rapid digitalization, cyber threats, changing regulatory expectations, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. These changes present new challenges for conventional governance and control systems.

In light of this, the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) India-Calcutta Chapter’s Annual Conference 2026 emphasized the growing strategic role that internal auditors play in assisting organizations in anticipating risks and fortifying governance frameworks. Internal audit experts, risk managers, and business executives convened at the event to discuss the growing role of internal audit in bolstering corporate governance.

The conference was inaugurated by Mr. Krishnan Venugopal, President, IIA India, Mr. Neeraj Bansal, Head – India Global, KPMG, and others.

The conference’s theme, Internal Audit: Control – Risk – Governance and Beyond, reflected the strategic importance and quickly growing scope of internal audit in the complicated and interconnected global environment of today.

The internal audit function has changed significantly in recent years, according to Mukhopadhyay, President of IIA India’s Calcutta chapter. Internal auditors are now expected to evaluate new risks, bolster governance frameworks, and contribute more broadly to the overall development of an organization using a risk-based approach, whereas in the past, they were primarily concerned with confirming transactions and guaranteeing compliance.

Experts from all over India attended the conference and discussed how internal audit is changing from a compliance assurance role to a strategic advisor role.

The technical sessions examined how internal audit must develop into forward-thinking, insight-driven partners to management and boards, going beyond traditional assurance roles. Participants greatly appreciated the two panel discussions, which were led by professionals from professional firms and the industry.

Under the direction of Mr. Suman Chaudhuri, a former president and BOG member, a souvenir featuring articles from distinguished professionals was also published on this occasion.

Priyanka Dutta