K Sanjay Murthy, New Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India

November 19, 2024

President Droupadi Murmu has appointed K Sanjay Murthy as the new Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. Murthy, an IAS officer from the 1989 batch, is currently the Secretary of the Department of Higher Education. He belongs to the Andhra Pradesh cadre.

Appointment Details

K Sanjay Murthy will assume the role of CAG from the date he takes office. He replaces Girish Chandra Murmu, who has served since August 8, 2020. Before this, Murthy was the first Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir.

Role of the CAG

The CAG audits all union and state government departments, which includes critical sectors such as railways, defense, India Post, and telecommunications. The CAG also oversees more than 1,500 public commercial enterprises and over 400 non-commercial bodies.

CAG’s Powers and Responsibilities

The CAG has the authority to inspect any audited office or organisation. It can review all financial transactions and request relevant records and documents. The powers of the CAG are defined in Article 149 of the Constitution.

Legislative Framework

The “CAG’s Duties, Powers, and Conditions Act” was established in 1971. This act governs nearly all aspects of government spending, revenue collection, and aid or grant activities.

Support Structure

The Indian Audit and Accounts Department (IA&AD) supports the CAG. It comprises around 600 senior and mid-level officers. Additionally, there is a subordinate staff of approximately 47,000 personnel.

Important Facts for Exams:
IA&AD – The Indian Audit and Accounts Department supports the CAG. It consists of about 600 senior officers and a subordinate staff of around 47,000 personnel.
CAG’s Duties, Powers, and Conditions Act – Established in 1971 this act governs government spending and revenue collection. It outlines the powers and responsibilities of the Comptroller and Auditor General.
Article 149 – Article 149 of the Constitution defines the powers of the CAG. It allows the CAG to audit all union and state government departments as well as public enterprises.

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