Article 115 of the Indian Constitution
Title: Supplementary, Additional or Excess Grants
📜 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.
✅ Key Types of Grants Under Article 115:
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Supplementary Grant:
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When the amount sanctioned earlier is not enough, the government seeks an additional grant during the same financial year.
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Example: Extra funds for disaster relief due to unexpected floods.
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Additional Grant:
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When a new service is undertaken that was not part of the original budget.
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Example: Launching a new welfare scheme mid-year.
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Excess Grant:
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When the government spends more than the amount granted without prior approval.
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The excess amount spent is regularized after the expenditure is incurred.
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Must be approved by Lok Sabha based on the recommendation of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
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📋 Procedure:
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The President causes to be laid before both Houses of Parliament:
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A statement of the estimated amount required.
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The reasons for the additional or excess spending.
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Like regular grants, these are also submitted as Demands for Grants and require approval of Lok Sabha.
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After approval, an Appropriation Bill is passed to authorize the withdrawal of funds.
🏛️ Importance of Article 115:
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Maintains financial discipline even when unforeseen expenses arise.
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Ensures Parliamentary control over every rupee spent by the government.
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Enables budget flexibility while preserving accountability.
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