About CAG:
- The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), under Article 148 of the Indian Constitution, plays a pivotal role in the financial administration of the country.
- The CAG is the guardian of the public purse, ensuring accountability and transparency in the management of public funds at both the Central and State levels.
- The CAG safeguards the Constitution and parliamentary laws, upholding financial discipline.
- It is a key institution for promoting accountability and ensuring checks and balances in a democratic system.
Constitutional and Legal Provisions for the CAG:
- Article 148:
- Appointment: The President appoints the CAG under his/her hand and seal.
- Tenure and Conditions: Determined by Parliament; CAG cannot hold further office under Central or State governments.
- Independence: Salary, allowances, and pensions are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India (CFI), ensuring autonomy.
- Duties and Powers (Article 149): Parliament prescribes the CAG's powers and functions.
- Form of Accounts (Article 150): Prescribes the manner of keeping accounts for the Union and States on the President’s advice.
- Submission of Reports (Article 151): Reports on Union accounts are submitted to the President and placed before Parliament. Reports on State accounts are submitted to the Governor and placed before the respective State Legislature.
- Certification of Net Proceeds (Article 279): CAG certifies the net proceeds of taxes and duties, which is final and binding.
- CAG’s (Duties, Powers, and Conditions of Service) Act, 1971:
- Tenure: Six years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
- Removal: Follows the procedure for removing a Supreme Court judge.
- Resignation: Addressed to the President.
- Service Conditions: Cannot be varied to the CAG's disadvantage after appointment.
