Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)

Why in news?

The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, presided over the 5^th Audit Diwas celebrations in New Delhi on November 16, 2025.

• CAG is a constitutional authority that audits the financial accounts of the Government of India and its state governments.
• CAG is the head of Indian Audit and Accounts Department.
• He/She is the guardian of the public purse and controls the entire financial system of the country at the Centre and the State level.
• Constitutional provision - Article 148 provides for an independent office of the CAG.
• Appointment by – The President of India by a warrant under his hand and seal.
• Governed by – The Comptroller and Auditor-General's (Duties, Powers and Conditions of Service) Act, 1971, with significant amendments in 1976, 1984, and 1987.
• Tenure – 6 years or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier
• Resignation – CAG can resign at any time from his office by addressing the resignation letter to the President of India.
• Removal – Same manner as a judge of the Supreme Court of India.
  • Can be removed by the President based on a resolution passed to that effect by both the Houses of Parliament with special majority.
• Reason for removal – Proved misbehavior or incapacity.
• Reappointment – Not eligible for further office, either under the Government of India or of any State.
• Salary & service conditions – Determined by Parliament - Salary is equal to judge of the Supreme Court.
• Administrative expenses – Charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India (CFI).

The current CAG (as of Nov, 2025) is K. Sanjay Murthy

To know more about CAG, Click here

Quick Fact

References

1. Indian Express | CAG to assess progress across 101 major cities.
2. PIB | Fifth Audit Diwas celebration