CAG of India: As our democracy matures, my role is becoming more vital

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CategoryPolity

Last Updated10/11/2023

India’s Independence in 1947 marked India's liberation from foreign domination.
The Constitution of India came into effect on January 26, 1950, laying the foundation for a democratic journey.
Key democratic principles include individual rights, equality, rule of law and public participation.

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) plays a vital role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and financial integrity in the government.
It maintains the separation of powers by aligning financial activities with legislative intentions.
CAG's audit findings promote good governance, streamline operations,reduce inefficiencies and uphold financial discipline.
As India’s democracy matures, the CAG’s role becomes even more vital in promoting good governance and safeguarding the people’s interests.

CAG integrates auditing of achievements in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its work.
As a member of the UN Board of Auditors, CAG conducts SDG audits as a cross-cutting theme.

CAG places Indian citizens at the centre, assessing preparedness, planning, and recommending corrective actions for economic, social, and environmental aspirations.
Citizen engagement is crucial in identifying high-risk areas and improving governance.
In India's federal democracy, engaging with stakeholders becomes imperative, especially with the shift to Direct Benefit Transfers.
Use of technology and digital solutions enhance citizen engagement, making audit processes more efficient.
Social audit facilitates citizen oversight, with examples like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.

The 73rd and 74th Constitutional amendments empowered local self-governance in India.
CAG supports local governance through capacity building, audit certifications and the creation of a pool of competent accountants.

Recognizing local self-governance's importance, an international centre for local governance is envisaged.
This will serve as a centre of excellence for capacity building of local government auditors, both nationally and internationally.
It will serve as a knowledge centre and think-tank, addressing capacity building for stakeholders at grass-roots level across the nation.

Democracy thrives on the synergy of accountability and citizen engagement.
CAG's role in catalysing good governance and citizens' responsibility to nurture democratic principles contribute to a mature democracy of the people, by the people, for the people.