Learn: Parliamentary Committees: Types, Functions, and Key Features

What does the Constitution say about Parliamentary Committees?

It mentions them at different places but does not provide specific provisions regarding their tenure or functions.

Who appoints Parliamentary Committees?

They are appointed by the Speaker or Chairman and work under their directions.

What are the two classifications of Parliamentary Committees?

Permanent Committees and Temporary Committees.

What are the types of Permanent Committees?

Standing Committees and Financial Committees.

What are the three types of Financial Committees?

Public Accounts Committee, Estimates Committee, and Committee on Public Undertakings.

When was the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) established?

It was established in 1921 through the Government of India Act 1919.

How many members are in the Public Accounts Committee?

22 members (15 from Lok Sabha and 7 from Rajya Sabha).

Who guides and supports the Public Accounts Committee?

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) submits reports which are analyzed by the PAC.

What is the main function of the Public Accounts Committee?

To examine the audit reports of the CAG.

When was the Estimates Committee established?

It was established in 1921 and re-established post-Independence in 1950.

How many members are in the Estimates Committee?

30 members, all from Lok Sabha (increased from 25 to 30 in 1956).

What is the function of the Estimates Committee?

To examine estimates included in the budget.

When was the Committee on Public Undertakings established?

It was established in 1964 on the recommendation of the Krishna Menon Committee.

How many members are in the Committee on Public Undertakings?

22 members (15 from Lok Sabha and 7 from Rajya Sabha, increased from 15 to 22 in 1974).

Who is the chairman of the Committee on Public Undertakings?

The chairman is from Lok Sabha.

What is the function of the Committee on Public Undertakings?

To examine reports and accounts of Public Undertakings.

What are the election methods for Financial Committees?

They are elected by proportional representation using the Single Transferable Vote (STV).

What is the term duration for members of Financial Committees?

1 year.

Can ministers be members of Financial Committees?

No, only private members can be part of these committees.

How many Departmental Standing Committees are there?

There are 24 Departmental Standing Committees (16 from Lok Sabha and 8 from Rajya Sabha).

What is the strength of members in Departmental Standing Committees?

31 members (21 from Lok Sabha and 10 from Rajya Sabha).

Who is the chairman of the Business Advisory Committee?

The Speaker of Lok Sabha.

What special distinction does the Deputy Speaker have regarding committee chairmanship?

The Deputy Speaker automatically becomes the chairman of a committee of which he is a member.