Subject: Indian Polity

Parliamentary control over administration is a cornerstone of democratic governance, with Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees (DRSCs) serving as vital instruments of legislative oversight. These committees exemplify the principle of checks and balances through their detailed scrutiny of governmental functioning.

Role in Administrative Accountability

• DRSCs exercise continuous vigilance through regular examination of ministry-specific policies, budgets, and implementation of programs.
• They conduct detailed scrutiny of Demands for Grants, ensuring optimal utilization of public resources and fiscal responsibility.
• Recent example: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce's 190th report (2025-26) demonstrates thorough examination of departmental expenditure proposals.

Effectiveness in Maintaining Administrative Standards

• Investigative Powers: Committees identify critical administrative gaps and suggest remedial measures (e.g., The 2025 CBI report highlighting 724 vacant posts and recommending autonomous recruitment framework).
• Policy Implementation: Regular monitoring ensures departments remain accountable for their commitments and targets.
• Performance Review: Committees assess departmental efficiency through outcome-based evaluation (e.g., The 145th Report on Personnel, Public Grievances examining recruitment processes and infrastructure projects).

Challenges and Limitations

• Limited Binding Power: Recommendations are advisory, not mandatory for implementation.
• Technical Expertise: Members sometimes lack specialized knowledge in complex policy matters.
• Political Interference: Party politics occasionally affects the objectivity of committee functioning.

Impact on Administrative Functioning

• Preventive Role: Regular scrutiny prevents administrative negligence and promotes efficiency.
• Reform Catalyst: Committee recommendations often lead to significant administrative reforms.
• Transparency Enhancement: Regular reports ensure public awareness of governmental functioning.

The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees have evolved as effective instruments of parliamentary control, inspiring administrative accountability through their comprehensive oversight mechanism. Their role in maintaining administrative standards is evident through recent examples like the Science and Technology Committee's 392nd report (2025-26). However, strengthening their binding powers and technical capabilities could further enhance their effectiveness in ensuring good governance and administrative efficiency. The way forward lies in implementing structural reforms like mandatory implementation of key recommendations and enhanced technical support to committee members.