Lok Sabha Speaker Inaugurates Two-Day Conference of PAC Chairpersons in Thiruvananthapuram
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla opens a conference for PAC chairpersons in Thiruvananthapuram, emphasizing accountability and technology in governance.
Thiruvananthapuram, November 3 (Daily Kiran) : Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated a two-day conference for the chairpersons of the Public Accounts Committees (PAC) of India’s Parliament and state legislatures in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on November 3. He shared details about the event on social media platform ‘X’.
In his post, Birla expressed his pleasure in addressing the gathering in Kerala, a state known for its rich democratic traditions. He noted that representatives from Parliament and state legislatures were convening to discuss the evolving role of PACs, focusing on “Audit, Accountability, and Good Governance.”
Birla highlighted the historical significance of the PAC in India’s democratic framework. He pointed out that the committee has existed since before independence and has continued to play a vital role in parliamentary tradition, particularly by appointing senior opposition members as chairpersons.
The primary goal of the PAC is to ensure fair and effective oversight of public expenditure. This collaborative effort among representatives from all political parties strengthens democracy.
He emphasized that while Parliament and state legislatures create laws and pass budgets, the PAC plays a crucial role in ensuring that public funds are allocated for infrastructure development, social welfare schemes, and various public welfare initiatives.
Birla stressed that it is not enough to merely allocate budget funds; the PAC must also evaluate the impact of these expenditures on society. The committee operates above party lines, focusing on ensuring accountability in governance and transparency in the executive branch.
He also called for the use of technology to enhance the effectiveness of PAC operations. Birla encouraged PAC chairpersons and members from various states to utilize better technology in their work, including data analysis and artificial intelligence, to understand spending trends and identify potential risks.
Furthermore, he underscored the importance of balancing accountability with human sensitivity, ensuring that government spending translates into meaningful benefits for society and positively impacts citizens’ lives.
Birla expressed hope that the conference would foster an exchange of experiences, ideas, and best practices among PACs, leading to stronger and more effective committees in the future.
