Estimates Committee consistently contributes to budgetary reforms: Om Birla

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today emphasized the vital role of the Estimates Committee of Parliament in driving budgetary reforms that enhance transparency, strengthen financial discipline, and align public expenditures with national development goals. Speaking at the inaugural session of the National Conference of Estimates Committees of Parliament and State/UT Legislative Bodies, held in Mumbai, Mr. Birla highlighted that the Committee has consistently made impactful recommendations aimed at improving public service delivery and ensuring the judicious use of taxpayer money.

The two-day conference has been organized to commemorate 75 years of the Estimates Committee of the Parliament of India—marking its Platinum Jubilee. On this occasion, the Speaker also released a souvenir, celebrating the Committee’s contributions over the decades. Reflecting on its journey, Mr. Birla noted that the Committee has evolved into a crucial oversight mechanism. Its primary functions include examining budgetary estimates, evaluating the implementation of financial allocations, and offering actionable policy recommendations. Impressively, he stated that over 90% of its recommendations have been accepted by the government, underscoring the Committee’s effectiveness and influence.

Mr. Birla further asserted that the Estimates Committee, over the past 75 years, has played a significant role in safeguarding democratic values by promoting administrative efficiency, systemic reforms, and fiscal accountability. He also advocated for the integration of modern technologies, such as digital tools, data analytics platforms, and artificial intelligence, into the Committee’s functioning to enable evidence-based decision-making and deeper budget scrutiny. This modernization, he said, is essential to keep pace with contemporary governance challenges.

Highlighting the broader importance of legislative oversight, Mr. Birla called upon Chairpersons of Estimates Committees from State and Union Territory Legislatures to act as stewards of financial responsibility at the sub-national level. He stressed that state legislatures hold the potential to transform governance by promoting fiscal prudence and ensuring responsible public spending within their respective departments.

Framing the Platinum Jubilee as not just a celebration of the past but a "call to action for the future," the Speaker urged for a spirit of innovation, cooperation, and dedication in the functioning of these oversight bodies across all levels of government.

During the conference, members will deliberate on the theme: “Role of Estimates Committee in Effective Monitoring and Review of Budget Estimates for Ensuring Efficiency and Economy in Administration.” 

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