Indias marginalised Parliament in budgetary affairs, Pg 6

Parliament in India has limited say in budget formulation, reducing legislators to approvers of government proposals.

Budgeting is a pillar of democracy, enabling scrutiny over public spending and aligning policies with socio-economic needs.

Finance Ministry prepares the Budget with minimal cabinet or legislative input.

Current process sidelines MPs from shaping fiscal priorities, affecting accountability and democratic oversight.

Introduce pre-Budget discussions and create a Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO).

PBO would assist MPs with independent analysis, budget projections, and impact assessment.

Similar models exist in the US, UK, Australia, Canada for evidence-based fiscal governance.

Enhances informed decision-making, reduces executive monopoly, ensures data-driven policy debates.

Encourages public trust in fiscal governance and better resource allocation.

Strengthening budgetary oversight is crucial for fiscal justice and democratic functioning.

Setting up PBO and formalising pre-Budget engagements can transform Parliament into an active fiscal policymaker, ensuring transparency and better policy outcomes.

Mains Mock Question:

"Evaluate the role of Parliament in budgetary oversight in India. Discuss how institutional reforms such as a Parliamentary Budget Office can improve fiscal accountability."