Question

Explain the meaning of departmental undertaking.

Answer 1

Departmental undertakings are the oldest and most conventional way of organising public sector enterprises. Departments operate similarly to other government departments in terms of organisation, financing, and management. It can be run by either the Central or State governments. It is managed by government officials and overseen by the relevant department head. The undertaking is overseen by a minister who reports to Parliament. Examples of departmental undertakings include the Post and Telegraph Department, Indian Railways, Doordarshan, All India Radio (AIR), and Defence Ordnance Factories.