2024-11-16 16:29:00
Comptroller & Auditor General (C&AG) has played a key role in fostering accountability, transparency and good governance in the country, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said on Saturday.
Lauding the exemplary role played by C&AG in independent India, Birla said that its rich legacy spanning 161 years has continuously evolved to meet emerging challenges.
He noted that C&AG has not only transformed its auditing systems but has also introduced new innovations which has ensured that its work is marked by credibility and authenticity.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion of 4th Audit Diwas in the capital, Birla mentioned that Members of Parliament discuss and scrutinise each and every para of audit reports to ensure that public money is spent judiciously.
He said that the audit of the government’s performance holds the executive accountable to the public. Birla observed that strong fiscal discipline lays the foundation of a robust democracy adding that C&AG is contributing purposely in this direction to ensure effective functioning of Indian democracy.
He mentioned that officials from countries around the world come to study India’s audit system and learn from it.
Birla informed that through the efforts of the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) of Lok Sabha Secretariat, officials from more than 50 countries have visited PRIDE to gain a deeper understanding of our audit systems. Birla noted that C&AG is leading the way globally in adapting to emerging challenges through use of technology and innovation.
In tune with the changing times, new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence are being adopted to make Indian audit systems even more robust and effective, he said.
On the occasion, Girish Chandra Murmu, CAG of India, outlined the progress made by the government auditor, highlighting key initiatives aimed at enhancing public financial management and improving accountability. He also highlighted the transformative role of technology in audit processes.
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What measures can the C&AG take to further enhance transparency and accountability in public financial management?
**Interview with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on the Role of the Comptroller & Auditor General (C&AG)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Speaker Birla. You recently spoke at the 4th Audit Diwas about the crucial role of the C&AG in promoting accountability and transparency in governance. Can you elaborate on why you believe this institution is so pivotal?
**Om Birla:** Thank you for having me. The C&AG has been a cornerstone of accountability in our democracy for 161 years. Its evolution over time, especially in adapting to emerging challenges, highlights its importance in ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively and judiciously. By transforming auditing systems and integrating innovations, the C&AG upholds credibility and authenticity in its work.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the significance of parliamentary scrutiny over audit reports. How does this process contribute to public accountability?
**Om Birla:** Members of Parliament meticulously discuss and scrutinize every aspect of the audit reports. This oversight mechanism ensures that the executive is held accountable to the public for its fiscal management. Strong fiscal discipline is critical for a robust democracy, and the C&AG plays a pivotal role in fostering this environment.
**Interviewer:** You noted that officials from various countries are interested in India’s audit systems. What does this say about the global standing of the C&AG?
**Om Birla:** It’s a testament to the effectiveness of our systems. The fact that officials from over 50 countries seek to learn from us underscores our leadership in public financial management. The C&AG’s adoption of technology and innovation, especially in areas like Artificial Intelligence, has set benchmarks that others look to emulate.
**Interviewer:** C&AG has made significant strides in technology, as you highlighted. How do these advancements improve audit processes?
**Om Birla:** Technology enhances efficiency and accuracy in audits. By leveraging tools like AI, the C&AG can analyze vast amounts of data quickly, identify inconsistencies, and ensure a more streamlined auditing process. This not only saves time but also improves the overall quality of audits, thereby reinforcing public trust.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what future challenges do you foresee for the C&AG, and how can it continue to evolve?
**Om Birla:** The challenges will likely stem from the rapidly changing technological landscape and the increasing complexity of governance. The C&AG must remain agile, continually updating its processes and embracing new technologies. By fostering a culture of innovation and training, it can effectively navigate these challenges and sustain its role as a beacon of accountability in our democracy.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Speaker Birla, for sharing your insights on the vital work of the C&AG.
**Om Birla:** Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we recognize and support the important role of the C&AG in promoting good governance.