Parliamentary committees are essential bodies that assist Parliament in its legislative and oversight functions. They allow for detailed examination of bills, budgets, and other matters, ensuring thoroughness and expertise in parliamentary work. Understanding their types and functions is crucial for mastering UPSC Polity and Constitution.

The sheer volume of work before Parliament makes it impossible for members to debate every detail of every issue. Committees provide a specialized forum for in-depth study, expert consultation, and efficient functioning. They also facilitate greater public participation and transparency in the legislative process.

Parliamentary committees can be broadly classified into two main categories: Financial Committees and Departmental Committees. Within these, there are further sub-classifications based on their functions and the nature of their work.

These committees are crucial for scrutinizing the financial accountability of the government. They ensure that public funds are utilized efficiently and in accordance with parliamentary approval.

The PAC examines the accounts showing the appropriation of sums granted by the Lok Sabha for the expenditure of the Government of India and such other accounts laid before Parliament. Its main function is to ascertain that public money is spent in accordance with the demands for grants and that the expenditure conforms to the relevant rules and principles.

This committee scrutinizes the estimates of the government, suggesting economies in public expenditure and improvements in administrative efficiency. It examines whether the estimates are framed efficiently and in conformity with the budget provision.

COPU examines the reports and accounts of Public Undertakings and such other undertakings as the Lok Sabha may refer to it. Its role is to ensure that these undertakings are run efficiently and effectively, and that they serve the public interest.

These committees are formed to oversee the functioning of specific government ministries and departments. They provide continuous scrutiny of government policies and administration.

There are 24 Standing Committees, each broadly corresponding to a ministry or a group of ministries. They examine the Demands for Grants of their respective ministries, review Bills referred to them, and discuss policy and legislative matters.

These committees are ad-hoc, formed for a specific purpose, usually to consider a particular Bill. A Select Committee is constituted of members from one House, while a Joint Committee includes members from both Houses.

This category includes committees like the Committee on Government Assurances, Committee on Petitions, Committee on Privileges, Business Advisory Committee, and Rules Committee, each with specific functions related to parliamentary procedure and governance.

The functions of parliamentary committees are diverse and critical to the functioning of a democratic government. They include legislative scrutiny, financial oversight, policy review, and ensuring accountability of the executive.

Committees examine bills in detail, clause by clause, and can suggest amendments. This process allows for expert input and public consultation, leading to better-drafted legislation.

Through the examination of budgets, appropriation accounts, and reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), committees ensure that public funds are spent wisely and effectively.

Departmental committees review government policies, programs, and the performance of ministries. They hold the executive accountable for its actions and decisions.

A thorough understanding of parliamentary committees, their composition, functions, and the reports they produce is vital for the UPSC Civil Services Exam. Questions often test knowledge of specific committees like PAC, Estimates Committee, and the role of Standing Committees in the legislative process.