Article 148 of the Indian Constitution

Article 148 of the Indian Constitution establishes the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) as an independent constitutional office. The CAG is responsible for auditing the accounts of the central and state governments and ensuring transparency and accountability in the financial management of public funds.

Role and Functions of the CAG

The CAG acts as the guardian of public funds and plays a crucial role in ensuring financial discipline and accountability in the government. Some of the key functions of the CAG are:

1. Audit of Government Accounts: The CAG audits the accounts of the central and state governments, including the accounts of various departments, ministries, and public sector undertakings. This helps in detecting and preventing financial irregularities and ensuring the proper utilization of public funds.

2. Performance Audit: In addition to financial audits, the CAG also conducts performance audits to assess the efficiency, effectiveness, and economy in the use of public resources. This helps in evaluating the impact of government policies and programs and improving their implementation.

3. Audit of Autonomous Bodies: The CAG also audits the accounts of statutory and autonomous bodies, such as universities, regulatory agencies, and public corporations. This ensures that these bodies are complying with financial rules and regulations and using public funds efficiently.

4. Audit of Government Companies: The CAG audits the accounts of government companies to ensure that they are managed in accordance with the principles of financial propriety and public interest.

5. Audit of Local Bodies: The CAG also audits the accounts of local bodies, such as municipalities and panchayats, to ensure transparency and accountability in their financial management.

6. Reporting to Parliament: The CAG submits audit reports to the President or Governor, who then presents them to the Parliament or State Legislature, respectively. These reports highlight any financial irregularities, inefficiencies, or non-compliance with rules and regulations.

Importance of Article 148

Article 148 is important as it provides for the establishment of an independent office of the CAG. This ensures that the CAG can perform its functions without any interference or influence from the executive or legislature. The independence of the CAG is vital for maintaining transparency, accountability, and integrity in the financial management of public funds.

The CAG's reports act as a check on the government's financial activities and enable the Parliament and State Legislatures to exercise their control over the executive. The CAG's findings and recommendations help in improving governance, preventing corruption, and ensuring the efficient utilization of public resources.

In conclusion, Article 148 of the Indian Constitution establishes the Comptroller and Auditor General of India as an independent office. The CAG plays a crucial role in auditing government accounts, ensuring financial discipline, and promoting transparency and accountability in the financial management of public funds.