Defence ministry sets up apex panel to carry out performance, efficiency audit

The move is seen as a major shift from the existing transaction-based compliance audit to carry out an outcome-based performance/ efficiency audit aimed at enhancing overall efficiency.

Published on: Jul 15, 2022, 17:17:56 IST

Share via

Copy link

The defence ministry has set up an institutional mechanism comprising an apex committee, with the defence secretary as chairman, to conduct "performance and efficiency" audit of capital procurements, logistics, inventory and maintenance of assets of the armed forces.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh. (ANI Photo)

"This kind of audit is expected to provide valuable inputs to the top management of the ministry of specific shortcomings, if any, in planning and execution of projects, and suggest systemic improvements in internal controls, soundness of financial procedures, identification of risk factors, etc," the ministry said in a statement.

It is seen as a major shift from the existing transaction-based compliance audit to carry out an outcome-based performance/ efficiency audit aimed at enhancing overall efficiency.

The members of the committee include vice chiefs of the three services, secretary of defence (finance), chief of integrated staff Committee (CISC), controller general of defence accounts (CGDA), director general (acquisition) and other senior officials of the ministry of defence and defence research and development organisation (DRDO).

The apex committee can also recommend any other specific area for performance and efficiency audit.

“The committee will identify specific areas for the conduct of performance and audit by CGDA and monitor performance audit reports and actions taken thereon. It also shall advise Raksha Mantri on remedial measures to be adopted as well as measures for overall improvement in the strengthening of internal oversight and Risk Management Framework,” it added.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Check India news real-time updates, latest news on Hindustan Times and more across India.