Topic: Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.
Q3. Parliamentary Standing Committees act as ‘mini-Parliaments’ in examining legislative and policy matters. Evaluate their role in improving the quality of law-making in India. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question:
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology commenced its meeting on Wednesday (March 5, 2025) at Parliament House Annexe.
Key demand of the question:
The question requires an analysis of how PSCs function as ‘mini-Parliaments’ by scrutinizing laws and policies in detail, followed by an evaluation of their impact on legislative quality, including both positive contributions and challenges.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Briefly introduce the role of PSCs in strengthening democracy by ensuring detailed legislative examination and policy oversight, citing their constitutional/statutory basis.
Body:
- PSCs as ‘mini-Parliaments’: Explain their function in legislative scrutiny, policy evaluation, and executive accountability.
- Impact on quality of law-making (positives and challenges): Highlight how they improve law-making through expert consultation and bipartisan discussions while also addressing issues like non-binding recommendations, delayed reports, and political interference.
- Way forward: Suggest reforms such as making recommendations more binding, increasing bill referrals, ensuring time-bound proceedings, and enhancing transparency.
Conclusion:
Emphasize the need to strengthen PSCs as essential institutions for evidence-based policymaking, ensuring legislative effectiveness in a rapidly evolving governance landscape.
