Strengthening Parliamentary Committees

For Prelims: Parliament Committees, Article 105, Article 118, Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha, Speaker of Lok Sabha For Mains: Parliament Committees and its Significance, Related Challenges and Measures for their Effective Functioning.

Source: IE

Why in News?

Lok Sabha Speaker speaking at the National Conference of Estimates Committees emphasized that Parliamentary Committees are not adversaries but complementary to the government. 

• He urged governments and officials to treat committee recommendations with seriousness and implement them in letter and spirit.

What are Parliamentary Committees?

About 

• A Parliamentary Committee is a body constituted by the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha, or nominated by the Speaker/Chairman, to carry out functions delegated by Parliament. These committees:
  • Work under the direction of the presiding officer.
  • Present their reports to the House or the Speaker/Chairman.
  • Are serviced by the Lok Sabha/Rajya Sabha Secretariat.
• Parliamentary committees, originating from the British Parliament, in India derive their authority from the Indian Constitution under Article 105 (powers and privileges) and Article 118 (regulation of business).

Types

• Standing Committees: They are permanent in nature, reconstituted every year under the Rules of Procedure or Acts of Parliament and their work is ongoing and regular. It includes: 

• Financial Committees
  • Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) which examine demands for grants, bills, and policy documents of various ministries.
  • Other Standing Committees such as Committee on Petitions, Committee on Subordinate Legislation, Committee on Government Assurances.

• Ad hoc Committees: They are temporary in nature and are constituted for a specific task, and dissolve upon completion of that task.
  • Eg: Select Committee on GST, Joint Parliamentary Committees (JPCs) on specific Bills, Railway Convention Committee etc.
  • Their purpose is to transact the detailed business of Parliament that the full House may not have time or expertise to handle in depth.

What is the Significance of the Parliamentary Committee System?

• Ensure Executive Accountability: Though committee recommendations are not binding, their detailed reports create a public record & opinion, enhance scrutiny of the executive and pressure the government to reconsider controversial decisions. 
  • Their closed-door nature enables candid and collaborative discussions, free from political posturing.
• Facilitate Informed & Inclusive Lawmaking: Committees serve as platforms for MPs to consult experts, civil society, and officials, ensuring evidence-based deliberation.
  • Clause-by-clause scrutiny of bills, stakeholder consultations, and public participation improve legislative quality and democratic legitimacy.
• Mini-Parliaments with Bipartisan Representation: With proportional party representation and year-round functioning, committees foster non-partisan debate, inter-ministerial coordination, and in-depth examination of budgets, annual reports, and policy proposals. 
  • Ad hoc committees further support focused inquiry into specific issues.
• Capacity Building & Governance Reform: Committees provide authentic insights and value-added recommendations, strengthening legislation and governance. 
  • They act as informal training grounds for young MPs, and function beyond populist pressures and party whips, reinforcing parliamentary democracy.

What are the Key Challenges Related to Parliamentary Committees?

• Limited Powers & Weak Follow-up: Parliamentary committees are advisory bodies with non-binding recommendations. 
  • They lack enforcement powers and have no institutional follow-up mechanism, undermining their role in ensuring executive accountability and effective policy implementation.
• Resource & Research Constraints: Parliamentary committees face staff and infrastructure limitations, with technical support mostly confined to secretarial tasks like scheduling and note-taking. 
  • The National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2002) highlighted a critical deficiency in specialist advisors and research support for DRSCs, hampering in-depth scrutiny and evidence-based analysis.
• Low Participation & MP Attendance: The attendance of MPs in committee meetings averages around 50%, which is significantly lower than the 84% attendance recorded during regular Parliament sessions. 
  • Factors such as conflicting schedules, low incentives, and lack of interest contribute to this limited participation, reducing the quality of deliberations.
• Inadequate Parliamentary Time & Scrutiny: The decline in Parliamentary sittings restricts time for effective committee oversight. In the 17th Lok Sabha’s first session, Parliament sat for only 37 days with a 10-year average (2009-19) sitting of just 67 days/year. 
  • As a result, key legislations and budgetary proposals often bypass detailed scrutiny, only 17% of the Union Budget was discussed in the 16th Lok Sabha.
• Political Influence & Lack of Independence: Parliamentary committees often face political interference from party leadership or external pressures, compromising their impartiality. 
  • Political considerations in the nomination of members further dilute the effectiveness and objectivity of committee functioning.
• Overburdened Committees & Fragmented Oversight: Department-related Standing Committees (DRSCs) handle multiple, often unrelated ministries, resulting in limited subject-specific focus and specialisation. 
  • Their broad mandate, along with short one-year tenures, hampers the development of expertise and limits sustained, in-depth oversight.

What Measures Should be Taken to  Strengthen the Functioning of  Parliamentary Committees?

• Strengthen Institutional & Research Support: Parliamentary committees need a well-equipped secretariat with access to domain experts, research staff, and reliable data. 
  • Providing adequate resources and modern technological tools will enable in-depth analysis, ensure evidence-based recommendations, and enhance the quality of deliberations.
• Institutionalize Accountability Mechanisms: Ministries should be mandated to submit Action Taken Reports (ATRs) within a defined timeframe.
  • The government must justify acceptance or rejection of committee recommendations through written explanations, reinforcing accountability, and enhancing the authority and impact of committee reports.
• Increase Referral & Specialization: Rules of Procedure should be amended to make the referral of all non-finance bills to committees mandatory or strongly recommended. 
  • Additionally, the scope of each DRSC should be rationalized by reducing the number of ministries per committee to ensure focused oversight, coherence of subjects, and promote subject-specific expertise among members.
• Improve MP Participation & Capacity Building: With average MP attendance in committee meetings around 50% (vs. 84% in full sittings), targeted measures are needed—such as incentives, penalties, or formal recognition—to boost engagement.
  • Additionally, regular training and orientation programmes, especially for new MPs, can enhance awareness of the importance of committee work and strengthen their legislative capacity.
• Promote Transparency & Citizen Engagement: Committee reports should be simplified in language and structure for public accessibility. 
  • Committees must leverage digital platforms for e-consultations, crowdsourcing evidence, and live stakeholder interactions during evidence-gathering, thereby enhancing public trust, transparency, and participation in the legislative process.

Conclusion

Parliamentary Committees play a crucial role in legislative oversight, democratic accountability, and participatory governance. Speakers call for greater respect and responsiveness to committee recommendations underscores the urgency to revitalize these institutions. As India advances toward data-driven and transparent governance, committees must evolve into the engine of reform and accountability at both Union and State levels, ensuring policies are not only well-crafted but also effectively implemented.

Drishti Mains Question: Q. Discuss the role of Parliamentary Committees in promoting transparency and accountability in governance. Why has their effectiveness waned recently, and what steps can be taken to restore their efficacy?

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)   Q. With reference to the Parliament of India, which of the following Parliamentary Committees scrutinizes and reports to the House whether the powers to make regulations, rules, sub-rules, by-laws, etc., conferred by the Constitution or delegated by the Parliament are being properly exercised by the Executive within the scope of such delegation? (2018) (a) Committee on Government Assurances (b) Committee on Subordinate Legislation (c) Rules Committee (d) Business Advisory Committee Ans: (b)

Global Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste, and Pollution

Source: UNEP

Why in News?

The Global Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste, and Pollution has been established at Punta del Este, Uruguay, under the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). 

What is the Global Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste, and Pollution?

• About: This panel complements the IPCC (climate change) and Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) (biodiversity), forming a trifecta of intergovernmental science-policy bodies that address the triple planetary crisis (climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution).
  • It fills a key gap in global environmental governance by focusing specifically on pollution and waste. 
• Objective: It aims to strengthen global efforts in tackling pollution, managing hazardous chemicals and waste, and safeguarding environmental and human health through evidence-based policymaking.
• Key Functions:
  • Provide independent, policy-relevant scientific advice on chemicals, waste, and pollution.
  • Conduct scientific assessments, identify research gaps, and support evidence-based policymaking.
  • Promote capacity building for developing countries to implement effective pollution control measures.
  • Engage in horizon scanning to detect emerging threats and guide preventive action.
  • Foster collaboration between scientists and policymakers to ensure informed decision-making.
• Significance: 
  • Rising and unregulated chemical use in daily life has increased health and ecological risks.
  • Municipal solid waste is projected to grow from 2.1 billion tonnes in 2023 to 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050.
  • Pollution-related deaths have surged by 66% over the past two decades.

IPCC

• Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the United Nations (UN) body for assessing science related to climate change. 
• Established in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), it provides regular scientific assessments on the causes, impacts, and risks of climate change, along with options for adaptation and mitigation. 
• Its reports guide global climate policy and are key inputs in international climate negotiations.
• The IPCC publishes comprehensive Assessment Reports every 6–7 years (e.g., AR6, 2021–2023) through three Working Groups and a Synthesis Report. 
  • It also releases Special Reports (e.g., on 1.5°C, Land, Cryosphere) and Methodology Reports for GHG inventories (e.g., 2006 Guidelines, updated 2019).

IPBES

• IPBES (Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services), established in 2012, is an independent intergovernmental body with nearly 150 member countries, including India. 
• It provides scientific assessments on biodiversity, ecosystems, and their contributions to people, along with tools for their sustainable use and protection.
• Though not a United Nations body, it is supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which hosts its secretariat in Bonn, Germany.
  • UNEP also hosts the secretariats of key international chemicals agreements, including the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, the Minamata Convention on Mercury, and the Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC).

UN Environment Programme (UNEP)

• UNEP, established in 1972 and headquartered in Nairobi, is the UN’s leading agency on environmental issues. 
• Governed by the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA), it supports global action on climate, ecosystem restoration, clean seas, and SDGs, and publishes key reports like the Emissions Gap Report and Global Environment Outlook.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)   Prelims Q1. Which of the following can be threats to the biodiversity of a geographical area? (2012)  Global warming  Fragmentation of habitat  Invasion of alien species  Promotion of vegetarianism  Select the correct answer using the codes given below:  (a) 1, 2 and 3 only  (b) 2 and 3 only  (c) 1 and 4 only  (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4  Ans: (a)  Q2. Biodiversity forms the basis for human existence in the following ways: (2011)  Soil formation  Prevention of soil erosion  Recycling of waste  Pollination of crops  Select the correct answer using the codes given below:  (a) 1, 2 and 3 only  (b) 2, 3 and 4 only  (c) 1 and 4 only  (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4  Ans: (d)

Enhanced Rock Weathering

Source: TH

Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW), a promising technique to combat climate change, involves spreading crushed basalt on agricultural lands to speed up carbon dioxide capture from the atmosphere. 

• This method is drawing attention from tech giants and industries seeking to offset their emissions.

Enhanced Rock Weathering

• About: ERW accelerates the natural process of weathering, where rocks like basalt break down and lock away carbon dioxide in the form of bicarbonate, eventually turning into limestone. This process is turbocharged by grinding the rocks finely to increase their surface area. 
• Carbon Sequestration: By using finely ground rock to increase surface area, ERW enhances the rate of geological carbon sequestration, making the process significantly faster than it occurs naturally.
• Additional Benefits: ERW enhances soil alkalinity, improving crop yield and fertility, while also reducing downstream CO₂ emissions by neutralizing soil acids before they reach rivers and oceans.
• Debatable Effectiveness: As a new technology, ERW shows mixed results in carbon removal. 
  • While some studies report up to 10.5 tonnes of CO₂ per hectare over four years, others show lower rates, underscoring the need for accurate measurement and further research. 
• Risk and Challenges: While ERW is generally safe, some quick-weathering rocks may release harmful heavy metals. 
  • The main concern is overestimating carbon capture, which could inflate carbon credits and lead to higher emissions. 
• Global Implementation: ERW is being trialled worldwide, from Darjeeling tea estates to US soy and maize farms, with Brazil issuing the first verified ERW carbon credits.
• Growing Investor Interest: Google signed the largest ERW deal for 200,000 tonnes of credits. Also, Mati Carbon (India startup) won the USD 50 million X Prize for carbon removal.

Read More: Carbon Sequestration

MSC Certification for Chilka Lake’s Mud Crab Fishery

Source: BL

To boost India’s inland fisheries, a joint initiative led by ICAR-CIFRI (Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute) and Chilika Development Authority (CDA) aims to secure Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification for Chilika Lake’s mud crab fishery. 

MSC Certification

• The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) is an international non-profit organisation promoting sustainable fishing through its eco-label and certification programme.
• MSC certification is a globally recognised eco-label for wild-capture fisheries that ensure sustainable fish stocks, low environmental impact, and adaptive, effective management. It promotes responsible fishing to secure healthy oceans and sustainable seafood for future generations.
• The certification enhances export value, supports biodiversity conservation, and ensures livelihood security. 
• The Chilika mud crab is India’s first inland fishery nominated for MSC’s sustainability certification.

State of India’s Fisheries Sector

• India is the second-largest fish producer, contributing 8% to global output and 4% in global fisheries exports. It ranks second in aquaculture, first in shrimp production, and third in capture fisheries.
• Inland fisheries account for over 75% of total production. 
• Key fish-producing states include Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Karnataka.
• Government's Initiatives:  
  • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana  
  • Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)  
  • Marine Products Export Development Authority

Read More: Coastal States Fisheries Meet 2025

Fungicides Linked to Fungal Drug Resistance

Source: TH

A study reveals that the agricultural fungicide tebuconazole is driving increased resistance in Candida tropicalis (a fungal pathogen) by causing unexpected genetic changes that make the strains resistant to commonly used antifungal drugs like fluconazole and voriconazole.

• Candida tropicalis is responsible for severe fungal infections, with a mortality rate of 55-60%.

Tebuconazole

• About: Tebuconazole is a systemic, broad-spectrum fungicide used widely in agriculture to control fungal diseases in crops like wheat, barley, rice, fruits, vegetables, and turf.
• Working: Tebuconazole, similar to medical antifungals like fluconazole and voriconazole, works by inhibiting ergosterol biosynthesis, essential for fungal cell membrane formation, giving it both preventive and curative properties. 
  • It is widely applied as a seed treatment, soil drench, or foliar spray, offering versatile crop protection. However, its overuse in agriculture has raised concerns due to its role in promoting antifungal resistance.
• Impact of Overuse: Overuse of the fungicide tebuconazole in agriculture promotes cross-resistance in Candida tropicalis by inducing aneuploidy i.e. changes in chromosome number that lead to the overexpression or deletion of resistance-related genes.
  • Strains with altered ploidy grow slower without drugs but survive better when exposed to antifungals.
  • Some strains became haploid (having only one set of chromosomes and the ability to mate), potentially spreading resistance further.
    • Ploidy refers to the number of complete chromosome sets in a cell. Diploid (2n) has two sets (common in human cells), haploid (1n) has one set (seen in sperm and egg), and triploid (3n) has three sets.

Fungicides

• These are crop protection chemicals (pesticides)  used to control the spread of fungal diseases in plants. It includes Chlorothalonil, dithiocarbamates (e.g. mancozeb, maneb, zineb), sulfur derivatives etc.

Read More: Pesticide Poisoning

International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025

Source: IE

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) organized a national event On 26th June 2025, to commemorate the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day).

• About: It was declared by the UN General Assembly in 1987 to promote global cooperation for a drug-free world. 
  • The 2025 theme, “Break the Cycle. #StopOrganizedCrime,” calls for long-term, targeted action against organized drug networks.
• Drug Abuse: According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), 292 million people used drugs globally in 2022, marking a 20% increase over the past decade and highlighting growing global concern.
  • UNODC, established in 1997, tackles drug control, crime, and international terrorism, and releases the World Drug Report annually on 26th June.
• Drug Affected Regions: Triple Frontier area (Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay), Golden Crescent (Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan)  and Golden Triangle (Laos, Myanmar and Thailand).

• Common Drugs: Cannabis, followed by opioids, amphetamines, cocaine, and ecstasy, are among the most commonly used drugs.
  • Cannabis is legal in Canada, Uruguay, and 27 US jurisdictions. Its psychoactive effects are mainly due to THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol).
• India's Drug Control: MoSJE is the nodal agency for drug demand reduction, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation, and nationwide awareness campaigns.
  • Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) is India’s flagship anti-drug campaign, active in all districts that features via the NMBA App for real-time tracking of Abhiyaan activities.
  • NIDAAN and NCORD Portals are digital platforms that store comprehensive databases of drug offenders.

Read More: Rising Drug Abuse Among Youth