IFoA India Conference 2025 concluded on a high note at the Andaz, New Delhi – marking the second successful edition of this flagship hybrid event, following an exceptional launch in 2024.
This year brought together 550+ delegates and over 70 speakers from South Asia, the UK, the US, and other global markets, making it one of the most diverse and well-attended actuarial gatherings in the region.
With strong representation from insurers, reinsurers, consultancies, universities, regulators, and a vibrant early-career community, the conference once again highlighted India’s growing influence in the global actuarial landscape.
The conference opened with a compelling keynote from Dr T.V. Somanathan, Cabinet Secretary of India, whose session ‘Actuarial hat in the public sector’ offered a powerful exploration of how actuarial thinking enhances public policy, long-term risk modelling, and economic governance. Delegates widely regarded this as one of the standout moments of the programme.
Equally impactful was the keynote by Dr Rajeeva Karandikar, ‘Precision meets principle’, which addressed the growing importance of ethics, accuracy, and principled judgment in a world of misinformation. His insights strongly resonated with attendees navigating an increasingly complex, data-driven environment.
These two plenaries emerged as particularly influential.
Plenary 1 – Boardroom ready: Weaving influence in a complex world
This high-energy session explored the shift from technical specialist to strategic business leader, with practical insights into influencing skills and simplifying complex ideas for decision-makers.
Plenary 5 – The fabric of trust: Professionalism and ethics in actuarial practice
Moderated by IFoA President Paul Sweeting, with panellists from IAI, Intact Insurance and RGA India, this plenary examined leadership integrity, bias, transparency, psychological safety, and the responsibilities actuaries face in an AI-enabled future. Despite being the final session of the day, the ballroom remained full – an indicator of how deeply the topic resonated.
The workshops offered delegates practical, hands-on learning – from technical deep dives in AI, modelling, IFRS 17 and climate risk to sessions on communication, leadership and professional skills. Participants valued the interactive format, real-world case studies, and the chance to learn directly from industry experts. Many described the workshops as some of the most enriching and applicable parts of the programme.
A highlight of the conference was the New Qualifiers Ceremony, honouring 169 newly qualified actuaries. The ceremony brought moments of pride, applause, and inspiration – recognising both personal and professional achievement.
In an open and engaging Town Hall, IFoA President Paul Sweeting and CEO Paul Lewis shared transparent updates on the IFoA’s vision, 2026+ strategy, exams, the Chartered Actuary designation, the Actuaries’ Code, and improving member experience. Delegates welcomed the clarity, direction, and openness.
The conference continued to champion the next generation of actuaries, with active participation from universities, dedicated interactions with employers, and meaningful networking opportunities with senior professionals.
Students and early-career attendees were highly visible across sessions and breaks, reflecting the growing energy, ambition, and aspiration shaping the future of the actuarial profession in India. Highlights included the Student Showcase and the Actuarial Innovation Challenge, providing students with platforms to present innovative solutions and gain valuable industry exposure.
A dedicated address from the Institute of Actuaries of India (IAI) reinforced the importance of collaboration across qualifications and student pathways, education and research, and professional and regulatory alignment. The session strengthened the shared commitment to advancing the actuarial profession across India and the wider region.
IFoA India Conference 2025 builds on the success of its inaugural edition in 2024, strengthening its position as a premier platform for actuarial learning, leadership, and collaboration in the region. With diverse perspectives, impactful discussions, and a vibrant community spirit, this year’s event once again showcased the profession’s potential to shape a future that is resilient, ethical, and innovative.
Thanks also to our partners, sponsors and supporters: Strategic Partner, Swiss Re; Engagement Partner, Institute of Actuaries of India; Knowledge Partners, ACTEX Learning and Institute of Actuarial and Quantitative Studies (IAQS); Sponsors, Gallagher India, Intact India, and K. A. Pandit; and Conference Supporters, Accenture, Aon, EXL, Marsh McLennan, and MetLife.
We look forward to welcoming the community into 2026 and beyond as this flagship continues to grow in scale and impact.
