The Salvation Army India Compliance Conference 2025 marked a historic milestone in the journey toward stronger governance and mission integrity. We give thanks to Almighty God for enabling this long-awaited initiative—the first of its kind across all Indian Territories. This landmark gathering provided an opportunity for leaders and stakeholders to pause, reflect and realign, reaffirming our shared commitment to safeguard the God given Mission, entrusted to The Salvation Army in India.
A Historic Gathering with a Clear Purpose
Held from 8 to 12 December 2025 at The Fern – An Ecotel Hotel, Lonavala, Maharashtra, the conference was organized by IFAS (International Financial Accounting Standards) under the leadership of International Headquarters, London, with support from the India National Office, Kolkata. The theme, “Strengthening Compliance and Securing the Mission,” captured the urgency of aligning operations with statutory requirements and internal policies to ensure sustainability and credibility for future generations.
Why Compliance Matters
In today's regulatory environment, compliance is not optional—it is essential for credibility and continuity. The Salvation Army in India operates within a complex legal framework governed by the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) under the Companies Act, GST, TDS, and other statutory requirements. The conference aimed to equip leaders and finance teams with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to ensure full compliance, thereby protecting ministries and reinforcing governance at every level.
International Expertise and Diverse Representation
The event witnessed strong participation from all six Indian Territories—Central, Eastern, Northern, South Eastern, South Western, and Western—along with the India National Office staff and Officers. Distinguished international guests included Commissioners John Kumar Dasari and Mani Kumari Dasari, International Secretaries for South Asia Zone; Commissioner Garth Niemand, International Secretary for Business Administration; and Lieut-Colonel Judith Hilditch, Head of Finance (UK Operations). The IFAS team was represented by experts such as Major Loveth Onuorah, IFAS Project Director, and Major Rajasree Kagitha, IFAS India National Champion Officer.
Delegates included Territorial Leaders, Board of Directors, Section Heads, Finance Secretaries, Accountants, Internal and External Auditors, Divisional Commanders, Governance Council Non-Executive Members, IFAS Champions, and compliance specialists. This diverse representation ensured a comprehensive approach to governance and compliance discussions.
Opening Highlights and Key Messages
Colonel Andrews D. Christian, National Executive Officer, warmly welcomed participants and emphasized unity and collaboration in strengthening compliance. Commissioner John Kumar Dasari expressed gratitude to IFAS, ISBA and teams for their year-long efforts and emphasis that compliance is essential for sustainability and integrity, highlighting recent challenges caused by non-compliance. Major Loveth Onuorah shared the journey of implementing IFAS and NetSuite in India, addressing challenges such as legacy systems, language barriers, and stricter post-COVID compliance laws. Her call was clear: “As a charity, we must pay taxes, submit reports, and shine as a light.”
Commissioner Mani Kumari delivered a powerful message based on Jude 1:1–4, reminding delegates of their calling and responsibility as Salvationists. She highlighted the significance of the two “S” on the Salvation Army uniform—“Saved to Serve” and “Saved to Save”—as daily mission statements. Quoting Colossians 3:23, she urged: “Whatever you do, do it wholeheartedly for God.”
Expert-Led Sessions and Practical Insights
The conference featured specialized sessions led by international and local experts, covering critical areas such as IFAS policy and system usage, strategic budgeting, NetSuite year-end actions, and financial risk monitoring. Discussions addressed FCRA frameworks, lessons learnt from FCRA registration cancellation, contingency planning, and governance failures with mitigation strategies. Practical sessions focused on MCA applicability, annual filings, property company compliance, and audit findings. These sessions reinforced compliance as a vital pillar for credibility, transparency, and mission security.
Closing Ceremony and Spiritual Renewal
The final day emphasized spiritual renewal and leadership challenges, culminating in a meaningful closing ceremony led by Commissioner John Kumar Dasari. The service included praise and worship, certificate distribution, and heartfelt testimonies from delegates. A farewell salute was offered to Commissioners Vanlalfela and Ropari, Territorial Leaders of India Northern Territory, and Lieut-Colonels Zothanmawia and Vanlalnungi, Chief Secretary and TSWM of India Western Territory, as they would be retiring from active service in next year. They shared their responses and were honoured with bouquets and shawls acknowledging their faithful service. Commissioner Garth Niemand delivered an inspiring message from Romans 12:1–8, urging delegates to step out of discouragement, step into God's Word, and step up to fulfil God's calling with humility and purpose.
Conclusion: Compliance as a Shared Responsibility
The India Compliance Conference 2025 was more than a meeting—it was a movement toward stronger governance and sustainable ministry. By embracing compliance as a shared responsibility, The Salvation Army in India is taking decisive steps to ensure its mission remains credible, transparent, and resilient. As we move forward, let us remember: Compliance is not a burden—it is a safeguard for the Mission entrusted to us.
Reported by Major Amrik Masih, Editor, All India War Cry
