The Committee on Estimates is an essential parliamentary committee in India, comprising 30 members from the Lok Sabha. These members are elected annually and tasked with examining government expenditure estimates. The committee aims to recommend economies, enhancements, and administrative reforms within the public sector.
The Chairman of the Committee on Estimates is appointed by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. This position is filled from among the committee's members, ensuring that leadership is derived from within its ranks.
The Committee on Estimates has four primary functions:
The Committee does not review all government expenditures indiscriminately. Instead, it selects specific ministries, departments, or statutory bodies for thorough examination each year. Additionally, it may look into special interest matters that are referred to it by the House or the Speaker.
In the fiscal year 2018-19, the Committee on Estimates focused on various subjects including:
There are specific limitations to the Committee's examination processes. Notably, it does not delve into matters related to public undertakings, which are under the jurisdiction of the Committee on Public Undertakings.
The Committee on Estimates is often referred to as the "continuous economy" committee. This title reflects its ongoing efforts throughout the year to identify potential savings and recommend administrative reforms to improve efficiency.
Moreover, the Committee on Estimates has the authority to approve any changes in the format or presentation of budget estimates. This function is crucial for ensuring transparency and efficiency in government financial dealings.
Q1. What is the main purpose of the Committee on Estimates?
Answer: The main purpose of the Committee on Estimates is to review government expenditure estimates and suggest improvements or economies in spending, ensuring effective utilization of public funds.
Q2. How many members are in the Committee on Estimates?
Answer: The Committee on Estimates consists of 30 members, all elected from the Lok Sabha, and they are appointed annually.
Q3. Can the Committee on Estimates examine all government expenditures?
Answer: No, the Committee selectively examines specific ministries and departments each year, along with special matters referred to it, avoiding public undertakings.
Q4. Why is the Committee on Estimates important?
Answer: It plays a vital role in promoting fiscal accountability and efficiency in government spending, contributing to better governance and administrative reforms.
Q5. What subjects did the Committee examine in 2018-19?
Answer: In 2018-19, the Committee examined various issues, including budgetary reforms, education, the public distribution system, and the preparedness of armed forces.
Question 1: What is the key role of the Committee on Estimates?
A) Approve new laws
B) Analyze government expenditure estimates
C) Conduct elections
D) Supervise public undertakings
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: How many Lok Sabha members are part of the Committee on Estimates?
A) 20
B) 30
C) 40
D) 50
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Who appoints the Chairman of the Committee on Estimates?
A) Prime Minister
B) President
C) Speaker of the Lok Sabha
D) Chief Justice
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: Which areas does the Committee on Estimates focus on?
A) Public undertakings
B) Specific ministries and departments
C) International relations
D) Electoral reforms
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: Why is it called the "continuous economy" committee?
A) It works only during budget sessions
B) It identifies savings year-round
C) It reviews economic policies only
D) It focuses on international economies
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: In which year did the Committee examine drought management?
A) 2017-18
B) 2018-19
C) 2019-20
D) 2020-21
Correct Answer: B
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