UPSC CSE Mains 2018 · GS2

“The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has a very vital role to play.” Explain how this is reflected in the method and terms of his appointment as well as the range of powers he can exercise.

Theme

T99 CAG & Attorney General

What UPSC asks in this theme

Questions ask CAG's role in propriety, appointment and powers, whether performance audit oversteps jurisdiction, and the Attorney General's responsibilities and limits.

What to cover

Art 148–151; CAG (DPC) Act 1971
Regularity vs performance audit
Independence safeguards
AG: Art 76, rights and limits

Writing the answer

Provisions, then practice and debates

These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 5 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.

More PYQs from this theme

GS2202510 marks
"The Attorney General of India plays a crucial role in guiding the legal framework of the Union Government and ensuring sound governance through legal counsel." Discuss his responsibilities, rights and limitations in this regard.
GS2202410 marks
"The duty of the Comptroller and Auditor General is not merely to ensure the legality of expenditure but also its propriety." Comment.
GS22019
“The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government of India.” Discuss.
GS22016
Exercise of CAG’s powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and the States is derived from Article 149 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether audit of the Government’s policy implementation could amount to overstepping its own (CAG) jurisdiction.

All 20 GS2 2018 questions · Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International Relations · Report a typo