The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the 16th Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institution (ASOSAI) Assembly today in New Delhi, organized by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. In her address, President Murmu highlighted the critical role of the CAG in ensuring transparency and accountability within the country’s public finances.

President Murmu commended the CAG for adhering to a strict code of ethical and moral conduct, which has ensured high standards of integrity in its operations. She remarked that the Indian Constitution grants the CAG a broad mandate and complete autonomy, emphasizing that the office has lived up to the expectations of the Constitution-makers.

During her speech, the President acknowledged the evolving nature of public sector audits, noting that they now extend beyond traditional oversight to evaluate the effectiveness of public welfare schemes and ensure equitable service delivery to all citizens. In an era increasingly driven by technology, she stressed the importance of audits adapting to advancements in digital tools, such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and machine learning.

President Murmu underscored the significance of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in modern governance, asserting that it has the potential to transform public service delivery by making it more accessible, efficient, and inclusive. She expressed concern over the digital divide affecting women and marginalized communities, stating that Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) have a crucial role in ensuring that digital initiatives are designed to be inclusive.

Addressing the issue of transparency in financial practices, the President affirmed that independent Supreme Audit Institutions are vital for the efficient management of public resources. “Audits and evaluations by SAIs not only safeguard public funds but also enhance public confidence in governance,” she stated.

Concluding her remarks, President Murmu expressed confidence that SAI India, as the host of the 16th ASOSAI Assembly, would contribute significantly to the discussions among participants. She congratulated SAI India on assuming the Chairmanship of ASOSAI for the period 2024 to 2027 and expressed optimism that under the guidance of the CAG of India, ASOSAI would foster greater cooperation and innovation among its members.

The assembly brings together experts and representatives from various countries, aiming to strengthen collaboration in public auditing practices across Asia.