Celebrating the Amrit Mahotsav of the Estimates Committee: A Tribute to Democratic Values — Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

National Conference of State and National Estimate Committee Leaders inaugurated in Mumbai

Mumbai : The Estimates Committee—an integral institution of India’s parliamentary democracy—is celebrating its Amrit Mahotsav year by marking 75 years since its establishment. Today’s inauguration of the national conference, attended by dignitaries from across the country, highlights the opportunity to honor the foundational values of transparency, accountability, and good governance in parliamentary democracy, as emphasized by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.

Formed on April 10, 1950, the committee ensures public funds are used prudently. It has submitted over a thousand reports, offering critical recommendations across education, health, defence, and infrastructure—integral inputs in policymaking, said Speaker Birla.

He recalled the original committee chairman, G. V. Mavalankar, and praised successive chairpersons for their visionary leadership and financial discipline. Birla specifically highlighted the 17th Lok Sabha’s report on the ‘Electric Vehicle Policy’, which influenced governmental decisions on tax exemptions and road tax waivers for EVs.

Development-oriented Governance Through Scrutiny
In his remarks, Birla noted the committee’s scrutiny of sectors like Indian Railways and the government secretariat, and urged greater use of technology, analytical tools, and public engagement to strengthen its future functions.

The Amrit Mahotsav offers a platform for fostering better cooperation between national and state committees and promoting best governance practices. Birla called for a collective commitment to work for public welfare and enhance the committee’s role as a pillar of democracy.

“Committee Enables Dreams of the Common Citizen” — CM Devendra Fadnavis

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised the Estimates Committee as more than a fiscal watchdog—it is a powerful mechanism to realize citizens’ aspirations. He noted that over 65–70% of its recommendations are implemented in Maharashtra, reinforcing governance discipline and responsibility.

“Structured Governance Inspired by Rani Ahilyadevi” — RS Chair Prof. Ram Shinde

Rajya Sabha Chair Prof. Ram Shinde highlighted the parallel between effective governance and Rani Ahilyadevi Holkar’s 300th birth anniversary. He shared how her pioneering work—especially the Bhilkodi experiment involving tribal communities—exemplifies inclusive and transparent governance, aligning with Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s envisioned parliamentary democracy.

“Budget Guided by Committee Reports” — Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar

Assembly Speaker Adv. Rahul Narvekar emphasized that committee reports form the backbone of disciplined, transparent, social–development-oriented budgets. He urged governments to use them for balanced and risk‑aware planning that truly benefits citizens.

“Every Rupee Must Reach the Public” — Deputy CM Eknath Shinde

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the committee ensures every rupee spent goes to its intended beneficiaries. Calling it “a mini‑parliament”, he commended its role in holding administrations to account and praised PM Modi’s emphasis on transparency, which complements the committee’s function.

“EV, Health, Education Reports Are Vital” — Estimates Chair Sanjay Jaiswal

Committee Chair Sanjay Jaiswal noted that nearly 1,033 reports—on EV policy, education, health, defence, and infrastructure—have guided improvements since 1968. He reaffirmed the committee’s essential role in administrative reform.

“Committees Reflect Democracy” — Policy Expert Arjun Khotkar

Arjun Khotkar stressed that parliamentary committees maintain democratic values, linking legislation with citizen needs. Reports on schemes like Zhunka-Bhakar (nutrition), rural sanitation, and textbook research underline their policy importance.

Ceremonial Highlights

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was welcomed by RS Chair Prof. Shinde, Assembly Speaker Narvekar, CM Fadnavis, and Deputy CM Shinde. A police band and traditional Maharashtrian honors followed. Committee leaders posed for a group photograph and a commemorative publication was released.

RS Deputy Chair Dr. Neelam Gorhe expressed gratitude and stated that over two days, committee heads will exchange ideas and best practices in oversight and governance.

In Summary:
The 75th anniversary of the Estimates Committee marks a milestone in celebrating fiscal accountability and democratic values. Leaders across India’s political spectrum spoke on its vital role in transparent, responsive governance. The national gathering in Mumbai calls for greater adoption of digital tools, data analysis, and citizen participation to strengthen its oversight and effectiveness for future generations.