Arrange the following Parliamentary Committees in order of their formation:

(A) Estimates Committee
(B) Departmental Standing Committee
(C) Public Accounts Committee
(D) Committee on Public Undertakings

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is C

The correct chronological order of formation of these committees is:

1. (C) Public Accounts Committee (PAC) – Formed in 1921

   • This is one of the oldest financial committees, formed during British rule.
   • It examines the audit reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and ensures the expenditure of public money is in accordance with Parliament's decision.

2. (A) Estimates Committee – Formed in 1950

   • It examines the estimates included in the budget and suggests alternative policies to bring about efficiency and economy in administration.

3. (D) Committee on Public Undertakings (COPU) – Formed in 1964

   • It examines reports and accounts of Public Sector Undertakings and ensures they are managed efficiently.

4. (B) Departmental Standing Committees – Formed in 1993

   • These are relatively recent and were formed to strengthen legislative oversight of government policies, ministries, and departments.

Hence, the correct order is: Public Accounts Committee → Estimates Committee → Committee on Public Undertakings → Departmental Standing Committee, which corresponds to Option (3).

Information Booster:

1. Public Accounts Committee (PAC)

   • Year: 1921
   • Composition: 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha, 7 from Rajya Sabha)
   • Chairman: Traditionally from the opposition party.
     

2. Estimates Committee

   • Year: 1950
   • Composition: 30 members from Lok Sabha only.
   • It suggests changes in budgetary allocations and expenditure control.
     

3. Committee on Public Undertakings (COPU)

   • Year: 1964
   • Composition: 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha, 7 from Rajya Sabha)
   • Monitors the functioning of PSUs and ensures accountability.
     

4. Departmental Standing Committees

   • Year: 1993
   • Currently 24 committees, each overseeing specific ministries.
   • They scrutinize bills, budget demands, and policies in detail.

Additional Information:

• Parliamentary Committees are essential for efficient legislative functioning.
• They allow detailed scrutiny which may not be possible in full house sessions.
• These committees enhance transparency, accountability, and democratic control over executive actions.