What is Article 115 of Indian constitution

 

What is Article 115 of Indian constitution

Article 115 of the Indian Constitution

Title: Supplementary, Additional or Excess Grants

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📜 What Article 115 Says:

Article 115 provides the procedure for getting Parliamentary approval when the government needs extra money during the financial year beyond what was approved in the original budget.

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✅ Key Types of Grants Under Article 115:

1. Supplementary Grant:

   • When the amount sanctioned earlier is not enough, the government seeks an additional grant during the same financial year.

   • Example: Extra funds for disaster relief due to unexpected floods.

2. Additional Grant:

   • When a new service is undertaken that was not part of the original budget.

   • Example: Launching a new welfare scheme mid-year.

3. Excess Grant:

   • When the government spends more than the amount granted without prior approval.

   • The excess amount spent is regularized after the expenditure is incurred.

   • Must be approved by Lok Sabha based on the recommendation of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).

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📋 Procedure:

• The President causes to be laid before both Houses of Parliament:

  • A statement of the estimated amount required.

  • The reasons for the additional or excess spending.

• Like regular grants, these are also submitted as Demands for Grants and require approval of Lok Sabha.

• After approval, an Appropriation Bill is passed to authorize the withdrawal of funds.

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🏛️ Importance of Article 115:

• Maintains financial discipline even when unforeseen expenses arise.

• Ensures Parliamentary control over every rupee spent by the government.

• Enables budget flexibility while preserving accountability.

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