Parliamentary committees in India play a crucial role in the functioning of the Parliament by examining issues in detail, scrutinizing legislation, and holding the government accountable.
1. Public Accounts Committee (PAC):
A. Function:
- Examines the appropriation and expenditure of the government.
- Ensures financial accountability and transparency.
- Reviews the audit reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).
2. Committee on Public Undertakings (COPU):
A. Function:
- Examines the working of government-owned companies and corporations.
- Assesses their efficiency, performance, and financial health.
3. Committee on Estimates:
A. Function:
- Examines estimates included in the budget and ensures their effective implementation.
- Reviews the economy, efficiency, and effectiveness of government programs.
4. Committee on Petitions:
A. Function:
- Examines petitions submitted by the public regarding grievances.
- Presents reports to Parliament on action taken.
5. Committee on Privileges:
A. Function:
- Examines matters related to the breach of parliamentary privileges.
- Ensures the rights and privileges of Members of Parliament (MPs).
6. Committee on Subordinate Legislation:
A. Function:
- Examines and reports on the subsidiary or delegated legislation.
- Ensures that the executive’s delegated legislative powers are used appropriately.
7. General Purposes Committee:
A. Function:
- Deals with matters not covered by other parliamentary committees.
- Determines the allocation of time for debates on different issues.
8. Business Advisory Committee:
A. Function:
- Recommends the time allocation for various business items.
- Facilitates smooth conduct of parliamentary proceedings.
9. Library Committee:
A. Function:
- Manages and oversees the functioning of Parliament’s library.
- Advises on matters related to the library’s development.
10. Committee on Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes:
A. Function:
- Examines matters related to the welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
- Reviews the implementation of welfare programs.
11. Committee on Empowerment of Women:
A. Function:
- Examines matters related to the empowerment of women.
- Reviews the implementation of policies for women’s welfare.
12. Committee on Urban Development:
A. Function:
- Examines matters related to urban development and housing.
- Reviews policies and programs for urban areas.
13. Committee on Science and Technology, Environment, and Forests:
A. Function:
- Examines matters related to science and technology, environment, and forests.
- Reviews policies and programs in these areas.
14. Joint Parliamentary Committees (JPC):
A. Function:
- Formed for in-depth examination of specific issues or legislation.
- Members from both houses participate in JPCs.
