EDIT: Accounting deficiencies

By Business StandardPublished On Nov 5, 2026

Audit findings

The CAG reported recoveries of ₹4,251.34 crore in 2025-26, alongside hundreds of changes to laws, government orders and accounting procedures

The implementation gap

Despite audit findings, corrective action often falls short of the financial implications flagged, leaving significant gaps in accountability

Odisha's mining irregularities

Undervaluation of iron-ore grades had a revenue implication of ₹10,294.24 crore. New monitoring rules must deliver effective oversight

Welfare and oil cess lapses

Ineligible beneficiaries received ₹782.26 crore, while only ₹17,730 crore of nearly ₹2.9 trillion in oil cess was transferred to the designated fund

Weak internal controls

Delayed action, litigation and poor departmental follow-ups allow financial irregularities to persist. Changes in rules alone cannot guarantee accountability

From findings to action

Technology, stronger internal audits, transparent reporting and follow-up audits are essential to ensure that CAG observations lead to measurable outcomes