Keralam Resolution adopted to improve efficiency of legislative oversight committees
The Centre and State Legislatures established a shared framework for Public Accounts Committees during a conference in Thiruvananthapuram.
The Centre and State Legislatures unanimously adopted the ‘Keralam Resolution’ on Wednesday during the Conference of Chairpersons of Public Accounts Committees (PACs) in Thiruvananthapuram, according to BusinessLine.
The conference included representatives from 27 states and aimed to create a guiding framework for oversight at both parliamentary and state levels.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stated that public funds should be used with maximum transparency and efficiency. He noted that while the Executive implements policy, the Legislature is responsible for monitoring its execution.
The eight-point agreement includes the creation of a digital Audit Para Monitoring System (APMS) and a centralised portal for peer learning. It also seeks to standardise timelines for Action Taken Notes and increase collaboration with the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG).
To address legislative backlogs, the resolution suggests that state PACs hold meetings at least three times every month and form specific sub-committees. Secretariats are also to receive more analytical training for financial reviews.
The agreement further aims to use advanced forensic tools through the C&AG to find high-risk governance areas. It also focuses on using digital solutions while protecting the integrity of the legislative process.