Overview
- Two-day National Conference in Mumbai was the first gathering of committee chairs and members since 2002, featuring inaugural remarks by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and a valedictory address from Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan.
- Participants endorsed measures to strengthen Estimates Committees at central and state levels to ensure financial discipline, transparency and citizen-focused review of budget estimates.
- Om Birla urged the integration of AI, data analytics and digital tools, backed by new training sessions for members to improve the depth and accuracy of oversight reports.
- Delegates backed the launch of multi-party Parliamentary Friendship Groups to foster diplomatic engagement and exchange best practices with foreign legislatures.
- Since its formation in 1950, the Estimates Committee has produced over 1,000 reports with a 75–90% government acceptance rate, influencing policies in sectors such as health, education, infrastructure and defence.