Use public funds prudently, says Lok Sabha speaker
Mumbai: Addressing the valedictory session of the National Conference of Chairpersons of Estimates Committees of Parliament and State/UT Legislatures at the Vidhan Bhavan, Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla underscored the importance of fostering institutional synergy, enhancing financial accountability, and embracing technology-driven governance to strengthen democratic processes.
Birla highlighted that seamless coordination among various arms of govt is crucial for efficient policy implementation and citizen-centric administration. Emphasising transparency and fiscal responsibility, Birla called for robust mechanisms to ensure prudent use of public funds. He advocated for the integration of advanced digital technologies to improve administrative efficiency, promote real-time public service delivery, and uphold the values of good governance in the digital age.
Stating that the Estimates Committees of Parliament and State Legislatures are the backbone of transparency and accountability in governance, governor C P Radhakrishnan hailed the committees for strengthening democracy in the country in his valedictory address. Noting that over 55% of revenue receipts of states are spent on committed expenditures such as salaries, pensions, and interest payments, Radhakrishnan expressed the hope that the estimates committees will look beyond traditional methods in promoting fiscal prudence and effective governance.
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In this connection, Radhakrishnan said the committees should adopt advanced tools such as data analytics, dashboards, and AI-powered audit platforms to ensure real-time monitoring of budget performance and public service delivery.
Radhakrishnan highlighted Maharashtra's contribution to India's democratic fabric. He was all praise for the positive and constructive relationship between the treasury benches and the opposition in Maharashtra and said such healthy democratic practices are worthy of emulation by other states.
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The conference, which marks 75 years of the estimates committee's journey, brought together key stakeholders to discuss ways to strengthen institutional mechanisms of financial oversight and improve administrative efficiency in the world's largest democracy. The theme of the conference was 'Role of Estimates Committee in Effective Monitoring and Review of Budget Estimates for Ensuring Efficiency and Economy in Administration'.
Mentioning that estimates committees must ensure that every rupee spent is for people's welfare, Birla emphasised that fiscal resources of the country must be utilised efficiently and responsibly. He reiterated that the role of estimates committees is not just to monitor expenditure but to ensure that welfare schemes are relevant, accessible, and effective for the common citizen, with a special emphasis on social justice and welfare.
Birla stated that technology-driven governance, such as direct benefit transfers, has reduced pilferage and ensured that benefits reach the intended recipients — a goal that estimates committees must continue to support.
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