Total Count

Subscribe Us

What is Article 115 of indian constitution

 

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:

  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).


📋 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.


🏛️ 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.