President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurates 16th ASOSAI Assembly in New Delhi

New Delhi: President of India, Droupadi Murmu, graced the opening ceremony of the 16th Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (ASOSAI) Assembly, organized by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India in New Delhi today. The event, bringing together leaders and auditors from across Asia, marks a pivotal moment for promoting transparency, accountability, and innovation in public sector audits.

In her inaugural address, President Murmu highlighted the crucial role of the CAG in ensuring transparency and accountability in India’s public finance management. “It was not without reason that the Indian Constitution vested the office of the CAG with a wide mandate and complete autonomy. I am pleased to note that the CAG has lived up to the expectations of our Constitution-makers, operating with the highest standards of ethical conduct and probity,” she remarked.

The President acknowledged the evolving role of public sector audits, emphasizing that it now extends beyond traditional financial oversight to assessing the effectiveness of public welfare schemes and projects. She stressed that auditors play a key role in ensuring these programs benefit all citizens equitably. In light of rapid technological advancements, she called on audit institutions to keep pace with these changes, especially in a world increasingly reliant on digital governance.

“Emerging digital technologies like artificial intelligence, data analytics, machine learning, and geo-spatial technology are becoming the backbone of modern governance. Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is revolutionizing the delivery of public services and goods, making them more accessible, efficient, and inclusive,” President Murmu stated.

However, she noted that the digital divide remains a critical challenge, particularly for women and vulnerable sections of society who often have less access to technology and fewer opportunities to develop digital skills. The President underscored the importance of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) in ensuring that Digital Public Infrastructure is inclusive and accessible to all, reducing inequality and improving access to essential services.

Addressing global financial challenges, President Murmu highlighted the importance of transparency in accounting practices. “In an often opaque financial world, the role of independent SAIs is crucial to ensure that public resources are managed efficiently, effectively, and with the utmost integrity. These audits safeguard public funds and enhance public confidence in governance,” she affirmed.

The President lauded the CAG of India for its rich history of public auditing and expressed confidence in India’s leadership role as the Chair of ASOSAI from 2024 to 2027. She congratulated the CAG and SAI India for hosting the 16th ASOSAI Assembly and expressed optimism that under India’s stewardship, the organization would foster greater cooperation and innovation among its members.