Introduction

The Indian Constitution, being the supreme law of the land, provides a framework for the functioning of the government and its various institutions. Article 113 of the Indian Constitution specifically deals with the procedure in Parliament with respect to estimates. This article lays down the guidelines and rules that govern the process of budgeting and appropriation of funds by the government.

Understanding Article 113

Article 113 of the Indian Constitution states that the estimates of expenditure from the Consolidated Fund of India shall be presented to the Parliament in the form of a Bill. This Bill, commonly known as the Annual Financial Statement or the Budget, is presented by the Finance Minister and outlines the government's revenue and expenditure for the upcoming financial year.

The estimates presented in the Annual Financial Statement are divided into two parts: the revenue expenditure and the capital expenditure. The revenue expenditure includes all expenses incurred in the day-to-day functioning of the government, such as salaries, pensions, subsidies, and interest payments. On the other hand, capital expenditure includes investments made by the government in infrastructure development, acquisitions, and other long-term assets.

The Budget-making Process

The process of preparing the budget begins with the various ministries and departments submitting their estimates of expenditure to the Ministry of Finance. These estimates are then scrutinized and consolidated by the Ministry of Finance to form the Union Budget. The Union Budget is then presented to the Parliament for approval.

Once the Annual Financial Statement is presented in the Parliament, it goes through a detailed examination and discussion. Members of Parliament have the opportunity to debate and scrutinize the estimates presented in the budget. This process allows for a thorough examination of the government's financial plans and ensures transparency and accountability.

During the debate, members of Parliament can propose amendments to the estimates presented in the budget. These amendments are discussed and voted upon. If a majority of the members present and voting support the amendment, it is incorporated into the budget. However, if the amendment is not accepted, it is rejected.

After the debate and discussion, the budget is put to vote. Members of Parliament vote on the budget as a whole, meaning they either approve or reject the entire budget. If the budget is approved, it is deemed to have been passed by the Parliament. If the budget is rejected, the government is required to resign as it indicates a lack of confidence in the government's financial policies.

Role of the President

Once the budget is passed by the Parliament, it is sent to the President for his or her assent. The President has the power to either give his or her assent or withhold it. However, it is important to note that the President's role in the budget-making process is largely ceremonial. The President does not have the power to make any changes or amendments to the budget.

After receiving the President's assent, the budget becomes law and the government can then start implementing its financial plans for the upcoming financial year. The budget serves as a blueprint for the government's spending and revenue collection and plays a crucial role in the functioning of the country's economy.

Conclusion

Article 113 of the Indian Constitution lays down the procedure in Parliament with respect to estimates. It outlines the process of budgeting and appropriation of funds by the government. The Annual Financial Statement, commonly known as the Budget, is presented to the Parliament for approval. Members of Parliament have the opportunity to debate and scrutinize the estimates presented in the budget, and amendments can be proposed and voted upon. Once the budget is passed by the Parliament and receives the President's assent, it becomes law. The budget plays a vital role in the functioning of the government and the country's economy.