Subject: Indian Polity

India's Parliamentary Committee system serves as the backbone of legislative scrutiny and oversight, acting as "mini-parliaments" that ensure detailed examination of various aspects of governance.

Structure of Parliamentary Committee System

1. Based on Appointment:

• Standing Committees: Permanent committees constituted annually (Public Accounts Committee, Estimates Committee).
• Ad hoc Committees: Temporary committees formed for specific purposes (e.g., Select Committees on Bills).

2. Based on Functions:

• Financial Committees: Scrutinize government expenditure and financial administration.
• Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs): Currently 24 DRSCs with 31 members each examine ministry-specific matters.
• House-Keeping Committees: Handle internal affairs of Parliament (e.g., Rules Committee).
• Inquiry Committees: Investigate specific issues (e.g., Committee on Privileges).

3. Based on Membership:

• Joint Committees: Members from both houses (e.g., Joint Committee on Offices of Profit).
• House-Specific Committees: Members from either Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.

Role of Financial Committees in Parliamentary Institutionalization

1. Enhanced Financial Oversight:

• The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) examines CAG reports, ensuring accountability in public spending.
• Estimates Committee suggests alternative policies to bring efficiency in administration.

2. Strengthened Parliamentary Control:

• Regular scrutiny of government expenditure through systematic examination.
• Recommendations for improving financial administration and preventing wasteful expenditure.

3. Technical Expertise:

• Committees provide specialized forums for detailed examination of complex financial matters.
• Enable parliamentarians to develop expertise in specific areas of governance.

4. Bipartisan Functioning:

• Foster consensus-building across party lines on financial matters.
• Promote collaborative approach in parliamentary functioning.

The Parliamentary Committee system, particularly financial committees, has significantly contributed to institutionalizing democratic practices through systematic scrutiny and oversight. Their role remains crucial in ensuring executive accountability and financial prudence, exemplified by institutions like the PAC working closely with the CAG to maintain fiscal discipline.