IICA and IAMC Forge Alliance to Enhance ADR Framework in India

The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) has taken a significant step towards enhancing the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) ecosystem in India by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Arbitration and Mediation Centre (IAMC) in Hyderabad. This collaboration, formalized on November 8, 2026, aims to bolster institutional partnerships and promote professional excellence in arbitration, mediation, and corporate affairs. The signing ceremony was attended by key figures including Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh, Director-General & CEO of IICA, and Shri AJ Jawad, CEO & Registrar of IAMC.

The MoU is designed to focus on several strategic goals that align with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. One of the primary objectives is to create a specialized pool of arbitrators and mediators through customized training programs. Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that it would involve both short-term and long-term courses, workshops, and seminars aimed at skill development. This is particularly critical for the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, which plays a vital role in India's economic growth, contributing significantly to GDP and exports.

In his keynote address, Singh highlighted that the collaboration would also facilitate regional support for Haryana's ambition to achieve a Trillion-Dollar Economy by 2047. He noted that investor confidence is crucial for this vision, which can only be realized through strong institutional frameworks for arbitration and mediation.

The IAMC, established with the support of the Government of Telangana and the High Court of Telangana, serves as a dedicated platform for promoting ADR mechanisms. In his special address, Shri AJ Jawad expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with IICA, emphasizing the need for structured programs and joint initiatives that leverage each institution's expertise. He stated that the MoU aligns with IAMC's mission to enhance professional excellence and foster innovation in arbitration and mediation training.

Jawad's remarks underscore the importance of collaboration in developing policy-oriented research that can strengthen the ADR ecosystem in India. This partnership aims to not only improve the quality of dispute resolution services but also to make these services more accessible to businesses, particularly in the MSME sector.

A significant aspect of the MoU is its focus on capacity building and policy-oriented research. The collaboration will involve specialized training programs aimed at enhancing the skills of professionals in the ADR field. This is particularly relevant in the context of India's growing economy, where efficient dispute resolution mechanisms are essential for fostering a conducive business environment.

The Centre for Excellence in Alternative Dispute Resolution (CEADR) at IICA will play a pivotal role in this initiative. Led by Prof. (Dr.) Naveen Sirohi, CEADR aims to facilitate knowledge exchange and professional development through collaborative initiatives. The partnership is expected to lead to the development of best practices in arbitration and mediation, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of corporate affairs in India.

The signing of the MoU is expected to have significant implications for the Ease of Doing Business in India. By strengthening the ADR framework, the partnership aims to reduce the time and costs associated with dispute resolution, thereby enhancing the overall business climate. This is particularly important for MSMEs, which often face challenges in accessing efficient and effective dispute resolution mechanisms.

The collaboration between IICA and IAMC is a proactive step towards addressing these challenges. By fostering a culture of mediation and arbitration, the partnership aims to instill greater confidence among investors and entrepreneurs, ultimately contributing to India's economic growth.

The MoU between IICA and IAMC represents a significant milestone in India's journey towards achieving Viksit Bharat@2047. By focusing on capacity building, specialized training, and policy-oriented research, the partnership aims to create a robust ADR ecosystem that supports economic growth and fosters investor confidence. As India continues to evolve as a global economic player, initiatives like this will be crucial in ensuring that the country remains competitive and attractive for business.