2011 - Comptroller and Auditor General of India | Commemorative Coin

The 4th commemorative coin of 2011 was released to mark the 150 Years of Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG).

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India, commonly referred to as the CAG, is one of the most important constitutional authorities in the country, entrusted with safeguarding the financial integrity of the nation. Established under Article 148 of the Constitution, the CAG serves as the supreme audit institution of India, responsible for auditing the receipts and expenditure of both the Union and the State Governments, as well as government-owned corporations and bodies substantially financed by public funds. The office embodies the principle that public money must be used efficiently, transparently, and in accordance with the laws enacted by the legislature. As a guardian of public finance, the CAG plays a critical role in maintaining accountability within the democratic framework.

The institution traces its origins to the colonial period, but its powers and independence were significantly strengthened with the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950. The CAG is appointed by the President of India and holds office for a term designed to ensure autonomy and freedom from political influence. The reports submitted by the CAG are placed before Parliament and state legislatures, where they form the basis for detailed scrutiny by committees such as the Public Accounts Committee. This mechanism ensures that financial irregularities, inefficiencies, or deviations from prescribed procedures are brought to light and addressed through democratic processes.

Over the years, the role of the CAG has expanded in scope and significance. The institution audits a vast and diverse range of entities, from central ministries and defence establishments to public sector enterprises, autonomous bodies, local governments, and schemes designed for social welfare and development. Through performance audits, compliance audits, and financial audits, the CAG examines not only whether money was spent as authorised but also whether expenditure achieved the intended objectives. This has made the CAG an essential pillar supporting good governance, fiscal discipline, and the effective implementation of public programmes.

The reports published by the CAG have frequently contributed to major reforms in public administration and financial management. By exposing deficiencies, uncovering inefficiencies, and highlighting areas requiring improvement, the CAG encourages better planning, stronger internal controls, and adherence to due process across government institutions. The office has maintained its credibility by continuously adapting to evolving administrative practices and incorporating modern audit methodologies, including data analytics, risk-based auditing, and technology-driven evaluation tools. These advancements have enhanced the accuracy, depth, and relevance of its audits in a rapidly changing governance environment.

As an institution, the CAG stands as a symbol of transparency and accountability, reassuring citizens that public funds are monitored with diligence and impartiality. Its work strengthens public confidence in government expenditure and reinforces the democratic principle that those entrusted with public resources must answer for their use. Through unwavering commitment to financial oversight and institutional integrity, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India continues to play an indispensable role in promoting responsible governance and protecting the economic interests of the nation.

Release Function: