Question

What are the committees of the Parliament exercising control over the government budget?

Answer 1

1. Public Accounts Committee (PAC):
   • It checks the government’s accounts after the budget has been executed.
   • It determines whether the money allocated by Parliament was used properly and within the limits provided by law.
   • It also evaluates the Comptroller and Auditor General’s reports.
   • The PAC ensures that public funds are not misused.
2. Estimates Committee:
   • It carefully examines expense estimates.
   • It provides strategies to cut costs and spend more efficiently.
   • The committee investigates whether the policy that supports the estimates is reasonable and fair.
   • It tries to improve government operations by making them more economical and efficient.
3. Committee on Public Undertakings (COPU):
   1. It investigates the functioning of Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
   2. It examines the financial statements and performance reports of PSUs.
   3. The committee ensures that public enterprises are managed efficiently and in accordance with government strategy.