Keralam hosts national conference of Public Accounts Committee chairpersons for the first time

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the conference at the Keralam Legislative Assembly in Thiruvananthapuram on November 3. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Parliamentary PAC Chairperson K. C. Venugopal, Keralam Legislative Assembly Speaker Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, Deputy Speaker Shanimol Usman and State PAC Chairperson K. N. Balagopal were among those present.

The conference is being held under the theme “Audit, Accountability and Good Governance – The Evolving Role of the PAC.” It aims to provide a platform for discussions on strengthening legislative oversight, ensuring financial discipline and improving transparency in public administration.

Public Accounts Committees play an important role in examining government expenditure and reviewing audit findings to ensure that public funds are utilised in accordance with legislative approvals and established procedures.

The gathering is expected to facilitate an exchange of ideas and experiences among PAC chairpersons and legislative representatives on strengthening institutional accountability and oversight mechanisms.

Keralam Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan welcomed the national representatives and described the state's opportunity to host the conference as a matter of pride. The event places the state at the centre of a national discussion on parliamentary scrutiny, public finance and responsible governance.