What is the Committee on Public Undertakings?

About the Committee on Public Undertakings

• It is one of the three financial standing committees of Parliament.
• It is constituted annually under Rules 312A and 312B of the Rules of Procedure.
• It comprises 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha and up to 7 from Rajya Sabha) elected through proportional representation using the single transferable vote.
• The Chairperson is appointed by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha (presently Shri Baijayant ‘Jay’ Panda).
• Ministers are strictly barred from serving on the Committee; appointment as a Minister leads to automatic disqualification.

Key Functions of the Committee

• Examine the reports and accounts of public undertakings listed in the Fourth Schedule.
• Review Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) findings related to PSU performance.
• Assess whether PSU management aligns with prudent commercial practices and business principles.
• Ensure operational autonomy, efficiency, and responsible financial conduct in public enterprises.
• Exercise functions of the Public Accounts Committee and Estimates Committee where specifically assigned by the Speaker.

Working Methodology of the Committee

• Seeks detailed information and documents from relevant ministries and undertakings.
• Forms study groups for intensive subject-wise examination of specific PSUs.
• Undertakes field visits and on-site assessments of projects and facilities.
• Holds informal discussions during tours without recording evidence.
• Conducts formal evidence sessions in Delhi with officials and experts.
• Maintains strict confidentiality of all discussion proceedings.
• Prepares reports with findings and recommendations and presents them to both Houses.

Conclusion

The Committee on Public Undertakings plays a crucial role in bringing PSU operations under systematic parliamentary oversight. By identifying inefficiencies and driving managerial reforms, it ensures transparency and accountability within India’s public sector enterprises.