In the Indian parliamentary system, Department-Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) are often called 'mini-parliaments.' Examine.
Answer: "In a democracy, the legislature must not only make laws but also scrutinize them." – P.D.T. Achary. To strengthen legislative oversight, facilitate expert deliberation, and reduce the burden on Parliament, Department-Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) were established in 1993.
DRSCs as 'Mini-Parliaments'
- In-depth Budget Scrutiny: DRSCs examine ministries’ demand for grants in detail—something Parliament rarely has time for. Example: In 2024, the Defence Committee flagged underutilization in capital procurement and recommended faster modernization.
- Bipartisan and Consensus-based Functioning: They include members from both Houses of Parliament, ensuring broad political representation. Example: The Health DRSC gave unanimous recommendations on the COVID-19 response in ....
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