Shaktimatha Learning
Parliamentary Committees in India – 360° Analysis (UPSC Polity)
Introduction
Parliamentary Committees are essential instruments of legislative oversight in India. They enable detailed scrutiny of bills, policies, and government expenditure, thereby strengthening accountability and efficiency in governance.
Why Parliamentary Committees?
- Parliament sessions have limited time for detailed discussion
- Complex legislation requires expert-level scrutiny
- Enhances executive accountability
- Promotes evidence-based policymaking
Types of Parliamentary Committees
1. Standing Committees
- Permanent in nature
- Reconstituted periodically
- Examples: Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Estimates Committee
2. Ad Hoc Committees
- Temporary committees
- Formed for a specific purpose
- Dissolved after completion of task
Key Committees
- Public Accounts Committee (PAC): Examines CAG reports
- Estimates Committee: Reviews budget estimates
- Committee on Public Undertakings: Examines PSUs
- Department-related Standing Committees: Review bills and policies
Functions
- Legislative scrutiny of bills
- Financial control and audit review
- Monitoring executive actions
- Policy evaluation and recommendations
Significance
- Strengthens checks and balances
- Improves quality of legislation
- Encourages bipartisan discussion
- Enhances transparency and accountability
Current Relevance
In recent years, concerns have been raised about the declining referral of bills to committees. This has sparked debates on the need to strengthen the committee system for better legislative scrutiny.
Conclusion
Parliamentary Committees play a crucial role in ensuring effective governance and accountability. Strengthening their functioning is essential for a robust democratic system.
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Parliamentary Committees in India – Complete UPSC Learning Series (English)
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