Answer:

Introduction:

Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees (DRPSCs) have become a cornerstone of India’s parliamentary democracy. Established to secure more accountability of the Executive to the Parliament, these committees examine various bills and budgets, analyze policy documents, and scrutinize the work of the government. Their work is crucial in maintaining the checks and balances essential for the functioning of a vibrant democracy.

Body:

Evaluating the Functioning of DRPSCs:

• Detailed Scrutiny: DRPSCs enable detailed scrutiny of legislative proposals and national policies which is not always possible in the din of parliamentary debate. For instance, the Standing Committee on Finance critically examined the implications of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), leading to significant improvements in the bill before it was passed.
• Expert Deliberation: Committees often engage with subject matter experts, stakeholders, and civil society, thereby enriching the legislative process with diverse perspectives. The Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare’s involvement in discussing the nuances of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill is a case in point, where stakeholders’ opinions were actively sought.
• Ensuring Accountability: By examining the workings of different government departments, DRPSCs hold the administration accountable. A notable example includes the review of the 2G spectrum allocation by the Standing Committee on Information Technology, which played a role in uncovering irregularities.
• Influencing Policy: Reports and recommendations of DRPSCs have a significant influence on policy-making. The Standing Committee on Rural Development’s inputs have been instrumental in shaping policies like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

Challenges in Functioning:

• Partisan Politics: Despite the non-partisan mandate, often members’ allegiance to their political parties affects the objectivity of these committees, as was witnessed during the deliberations on the Land Acquisition Bill where political divides were evident.
• Lack of Public Awareness: The proceedings of the committees are not telecasted, and this opacity reduces public engagement and awareness about their critical role.
• Implementation of Recommendations: While the committees make recommendations, their implementation is not binding on the government. This can sometimes result in the dilution of parliamentary oversight.

Inspiring Reverence for Parliamentary Control:

DRPSCs have inspired reverence for parliamentary control through informed and detailed legislative work. However, to maintain this, they must remain above partisan politics and work towards the broader objective of nation-building.

Conclusion:

DRPSCs are indeed instrumental in ensuring that the administration remains accountable and governance is improved through meticulous oversight. While they have their challenges, including the occasional lapse into partisan considerations and limitations in their recommendations’ enforceability, their contribution to refining legislation and policies is undeniable. To enhance their effectiveness, efforts must be made to improve transparency in their proceedings, increase public engagement, and ensure that their recommendations are given due consideration by the government. Such measures will strengthen the reverence for parliamentary control and bolster the democratic ethos of India.