Estimates Committee Is The Backbone Of Accountability — Devendra Fadnavis At National Conference In Mumbai

Devendra Fadnavis highlights the vital role of the Estimates Committee in governance and fiscal accountability at a national conference in Mumbai.

Devendra Fadnavis said the Estimates Committee plays a key role in ensuring accountability in governance.

Source : Twitter/@CMOMaharashtra

Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, underscored the critical role of the Estimates Committee in shaping accountable governance at the National Conference of Estimates Committees of Parliament and State/UT Legislatures, held at Mumbai’s Vidhan Bhavan. The conference was inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, marking the 75th anniversary of the Parliamentary Estimates Committee.

Fadnavis emphasised the profound sense of pride in hosting such a significant national gathering in Maharashtra—“the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the karmabhoomi of BharatRatna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.” Reflecting on the legacy of India’s Constitution, he said, “The Constitution crafted by BharatRatna, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, continues to be the guiding force that brings public representatives together, enabling them to deliberate and function as true carriers of India’s democracy.”

Estimates Committee: A Proactive Force Driving Real Change In Maharashtra

Drawing from his six-year tenure on the Estimates Committee, CM Devendra Fadnavis highlighted its forward-thinking role in governance. Unlike reactive bodies, this committee begins its work before the annual budget, ensuring that allocations are purposeful and strategic. He referred to it as a true embodiment of Prakalan—the Sanskrit term for advanced calculation. Addressing common criticisms that such committees lack authority, Fadnavis shared Maharashtra’s strong track record, where 65–70% of committee recommendations are actually implemented. This, he emphasized, shows the Estimates Committee’s real-world impact—turning recommendations into action and setting new standards for transparency and accountability.

In The Spirit Of Amritkaal

Emphasising the need for constant evolution in democratic institutions, Fadnavis encouraged introspection and systemic reform. “In this Amritkaal, it’s necessary to accept that every system has areas needing improvement. The responsibility lies in recognising those gaps, working to strengthen processes, and leaving behind a better, transparent, and accountable framework for future generations.”

He concluded that the conference served not just as a gathering of procedure but as a reminder of the nation's collective pledge to uphold democratic integrity and good governance. “This conference is far more than a formal procedure — it stands as a reaffirmation of our commitment to good governance, accountability, and the democratic values enshrined in our Constitution.”

This event brought together policymakers and experts in a meaningful discussion that reinforces the relevance of parliamentary committees in India's democratic journey.