Who among the following has been appointed as the Comptroller General of India in November 2024?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is:(C) K Sanjay Murthy

Explanation:
In November 2024, K Sanjay Murthy, a 1989-batch IAS officer from the Himachal Pradesh cadre, was appointed as the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. He succeeded Girish Chandra Murmu, who completed his term in November 2024. Murthy assumed office on November 21, 2024, after a formal swearing-in ceremony.

Information Booster:

Constitutional Facts of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India:

1. Article 148 of the Indian Constitution:
• The CAG of India is established under Article 148 of the Indian Constitution. The article empowers the President to appoint the CAG, who holds office for a term of six years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
2. Appointment:
• The CAG is appointed by the President of India. The appointment is based on recommendations, typically involving consultations with the Prime Minister and other officials, though the process is not explicitly outlined in the Constitution.
3. Duties and Functions (Article 149):
• Article 149 outlines the duties and powers of the CAG, which include auditing the accounts of the Union and State governments, public sector enterprises, and other entities financed by the government.
• The CAG audits both the receipt and expenditure of public funds to ensure proper use and adherence to law.
• It also conducts performance audits of government schemes, policies, and programs to assess their efficiency and effectiveness.
4. Independence:
• The CAG is intended to be independent in performing its duties. The officeholder is not subject to the control or direction of any executive authority.
• The CAG can only be removed from office in the same manner as a judge of the Supreme Court, i.e., through a process of impeachment (Article 148).
5. Role in Parliament:
• The CAG submits reports to the President of India, who in turn lays them before the Parliament.
• The reports are considered by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Parliament, which examines the findings and makes recommendations for improvements.
6. Power of Audit:
• The CAG has the power to audit the accounts of all central and state government departments, autonomous bodies, local bodies, and public sector undertakings (PSUs).
• It also audits the accounts of institutions receiving government grants and loans.
7. Reports and Accountability:
• The Audit Reports prepared by the CAG play a crucial role in promoting accountability in government spending and financial management.
• These reports are regularly debated in the Parliament, ensuring transparency and holding the government accountable for its expenditure.