By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 22: As part of the Audit Diwas 2023 celebrations of the institution of the Comptroller & Auditor General of India (CAG), a panel discussion on the topic ‘Strengthening the functioning and oversight of Local Governance in Meghalaya’, was held in the office of the Principal Accountant General (Audit), Meghalaya, here.
In her opening remarks, Shefali S Andaleeb, Principal Accountant General (Audit), Meghalaya, spoke about the role of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) as institutions of local governance under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and highlighted the importance of financial transparency, better asset management and stronger oversight of ADCs.
Dr Sumarbin Umdor, professor, Economics Department, North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), spoke about the ‘Finances of Autonomous District Council: Challenges and Opportunities’. He stated that apart from devolution of funds and functions, devolution of functionaries is an important aspect for the ADCs to function effectively.
Editor of The Shillong Times, Patricia Mukhim, spoke on the topic ‘Strengthening Transparency and Oversight of Autonomous District Councils of Meghalaya’.
She gave valuable insights on the importance of accountability of the Autonomous District Councils and the requirement of strengthening their capacities to meet with the growing need for good local governance. She stressed on the need for better institutional link between ADCs and traditional Dorbars.
The concluding address was delivered by Calvin H Kharshiing, Principal Accountant General (A&E), Meghalaya, who stated that civil society movements like ‘Vada Na Todo Abhiyan’ and social sector audits could be some of the ways to improve the accountability of the ADCs.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Deputy Accountant General, Office of the Principal Accountant General (Audit), Meghalaya, Mathews Mathew.