The parliamentary committee which scrutinizes the appropriation accoun...
Public Accounts Committee. Public Accounts Committee (PAC) refers to a committee in the legislature that must study public audits, invite ministers, permanent secretaries or other ministry officials to the committee for questioning, and issue a report of their findings subsequent to a government budget audit.
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The parliamentary committee which scrutinizes the appropriation accoun...
Understanding the Public Accounts Committee
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) plays a crucial role in the financial oversight of the Government of India. Its primary function is to scrutinize the appropriation accounts and ensure transparency and accountability in government spending.
Key Functions of the Public Accounts Committee:
- Scrutinize Financial Management: The PAC examines the accounts of the government to ensure that public funds are being utilized efficiently and for the intended purposes.
- Review Reports by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG): The committee closely reviews the reports submitted by the CAG, which audits government expenditures and provides insights into financial management.
- Promote Accountability: By evaluating the utilization of funds, the PAC holds the government accountable for its financial decisions, ensuring that it adheres to fiscal discipline.
- Recommendations for Improvement: After analyzing the accounts and reports, the PAC makes recommendations to improve financial management practices.
Composition and Membership:
- Members from Both Houses: The PAC consists of members from both the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), ensuring a comprehensive representation of the legislative body.
- Chairmanship: The committee is typically chaired by a member of the opposition, reinforcing the principle of accountability and providing a check on the ruling party.
Conclusion:
In summary, the Public Accounts Committee is integral to maintaining financial integrity in the Indian government. By scrutinizing appropriation accounts and CAG reports, it ensures that public funds are managed responsibly, thereby enhancing public trust in governmental financial operations.