Constitutional Bodies — Set 11

Correct Answer: C. UPSC

The UPSC is a constitutional body established under Article 315 of the Constitution. SEBI is a statutory body under the SEBI Act 1992. The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is a statutory body under the CVC Act 2003. The Lokpal is a statutory body under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act 2013.

Correct Answer: B. PAC examines CAG's audit reports and questions government on irregularities

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament examines the audit reports of the CAG to scrutinize whether money was spent for the purposes for which it was voted by Parliament, whether the expenditure was within the legal authority, and whether value for money was obtained. The PAC is one of the three Financial Committees of Parliament (along with Estimates and Public Undertakings Committees). Understanding this constitutional provision is essential for competitive examinations and civic awareness.

Correct Answer: C. Consolidated Fund of India

The salary and other service conditions of the Comptroller and Auditor General are charged to the Consolidated Fund of India (Article 148(6)). Since these are charged expenditures, they are not subject to the vote of Parliament. This provision ensures the financial independence of the CAG — his salary does not depend on Parliament's annual approval.

Correct Answer: C. 73rd Amendment

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act (1992) made it mandatory to constitute State Finance Commissions (SFCs) in every state under Article 243I. These SFCs review the financial position of panchayats and recommend the distribution of taxes and duties between the state government and panchayats. This ensures financial devolution to local bodies.

Correct Answer: D. None — the President's speech reflects the government's policy agenda

The President's Address to Parliament at the commencement of the first session (Article 87) is based on the policy agenda and programs of the elected government (Cabinet), not any constitutional body's report. It is essentially the government's policy statement. The speech is written by the Cabinet and is a reflection of government priorities.

Correct Answer: B. National Commission for Minorities Act 1992

The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) is a statutory body established under the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992. It is NOT a constitutional body. The NCM evaluates the progress of minority development, reviews safeguards provided in the Constitution for minorities, and makes recommendations to the government.

Correct Answer: C. Article 324

Article 324 vests the superintendence, direction, and control of the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of all elections to Parliament and to the Legislature of every State and of elections to the offices of President and Vice President of India in the Election Commission of India. The Election Commission is an independent constitutional body. The Chief Election Commissioner has security of tenure and can only be removed through impeachment like a Supreme Court judge.

Correct Answer: B. Public purse — audits government expenditure

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India is often called the 'guardian of the public purse'. The CAG audits the accounts of the Central Government, State Governments, and government-owned companies/corporations to ensure that public money has been spent for the purposes for which it was appropriated by Parliament. The CAG is appointed by the President under Article 148 and submits reports to Parliament. The Public Accounts Committee of Parliament examines CAG reports.

Correct Answer: C. 5 years

The Finance Commission is constituted by the President under Article 280 once every five years (or earlier if needed). It consists of a Chairman and four other members. The Finance Commission recommends the distribution of tax revenues between the Centre and States, principles governing grants-in-aid to states, and any other matter referred by the President. The 16th Finance Commission was constituted in 2023 with Dr. Arvind Panagariya as its Chairman.

Correct Answer: C. Recommending candidates for appointment to Union Civil Services and posts

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is a constitutional body under Article 315 responsible for conducting examinations for appointments to the services of the Union (e.g., IAS, IPS, IFS, and other Central Services). UPSC also makes recommendations on promotion, disciplinary matters, and framing of service rules. The UPSC Chairman and members are appointed by the President and have security of tenure. They can only be removed through a process similar to removal of a Supreme Court judge.