Dear Esteemed Members of the Bengaluru Branch,

Warm Greetings to all of you!

As we celebrate the completion of 75 glorious years of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), we reflect on our journey as true partners in nation-building. This milestone fills our hearts with immense pride and enthusiasm. ICAI’s journey is a testament to the dedication and valuable role that Chartered Accountants play in shaping the financial landscape of our nation. To mark this significant occasion, the Managing Committee Members of the Bengaluru Branch (SIRC) hoisted the ICAI flag, I was overwhelmed with pride and emotion and as a token of celebration we organized a Blood Donation Camp, and planted saplings, embodying our commitment to community service and environmental sustainability.

In a unified celebration of Chartered Accountants Day 2024, we organized the CA Run under the theme “CA Run for Viksit Bharat” on 30th June. Starting from Cubbon Park and passing by Vidhana Soudha and the High Court, the event saw more than 200 enthusiastic participants. It was heartening to see such active participation from our Members and students.

I am thrilled to share the grand success of our first-ever ICAI Mega Startup Sphere 2024, hosted by the Bengaluru Branch (SIRC). This event, organized by the Committee on MSME & Start-up and the Development of International Trade, Services & WTO Directorate of ICAI, was a vibrant platform that showcased the latest techniques and innovations in the startup ecosystem. It covered a wide range of topics including government ecosystems, funding sources, valuation, and digital marketing. The event was held from 27th to 29th June 2024 at Karnataka Trade Promotion Organization (KTPO), Bengaluru.

The Mega Startup Sphere was graced by a galaxy of speakers, including founders of unicorns and expert thought leaders who shared their strategic insights on the evolving startup environment. The event featured a lively exhibition, a Startup Tank, and a placement drive for newly qualified Chartered Accountants. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the delegates, startups, exhibitors, and participants who contributed to making this event a monumental success.

I would like to extend a special thank you to the President of ICAI CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal, and the Vice President of ICAI, CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda, for their physical presence and support.
I also express my gratitude to the Past Presidents, CA. Aniket S. Talati and CA. Debashish Mitra, who graced the inaugural event with their presence. Additionally, the US Accounting Outsourced Program was inaugurated by Past President, ICAI CA. K. Raghu.

I extend my sincere gratitude to CA. Dheeraj Kumar Khandelwal, Chairman – Committee on MSME & Startup, and Development of International Trade Services & WTO Directorate of ICAI, CA.(Dr.) Raj Chawla, Vice Chairman, and CA. Abhay Chahhajed, Deputy Convenor, Development of International Trade, Service & WTC also our own Central Council Member, CA. Cotha S Srinivas, SIRC chairperson CA. Geetha A B, and to the Managing Committee Members of the Bengaluru Branch (SIRC) for their unwavering support and guidance in making these events successful.

Thank you to all our Members, Speakers, Volunteers, Sponsors, Exhibitors and participants. Your continued support and participation are what drive us to achieve greater heights.

Our Branch also celebrated the 10th International Day of Yoga on 21st June 2024, in association with the AYUSH Department, Government of Karnataka, in front of Vidhana Soudha. Additionally, we concluded a comprehensive Workshop on Revisiting the Income Tax Act, 1961, which covered both basic and advanced levels over six modules.

Looking ahead, we are excited to host the 56th Regional Conference of SIRC of ICAI on 9th & 10th August 2024 at Tripura Vasini, Palace Grounds, Bengaluru. This Conference promises to be a significant event, bringing together professionals from across the region to share knowledge and insights. I encourage all Members to participate and make the most of this opportunity.

In addition, I am pleased to inform you that the audited financial statements and the audit report of the Bengaluru Branch for the year ended 31st March 2024 are included in this issue. The Notice of the 62nd Annual General Meeting of the Members of the Bengaluru Branch (SIRC), scheduled for 26th July 2024 at 4:30 pm at the Branch premises, is also included. I invite all members to attend and actively participate in the AGM.

With warm regards,

CA. Pramod R Hegde
Chairman
Bengaluru Branch (SIRC)