23 March 2026, New Delhi.
The Committee on Public Accounts of the Delhi Legislative Assembly has presented its First Report of the Eighth Assembly in the House, focusing on the performance audit of public health infrastructure and management of health services in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The report was presented by Chairperson Ajay Mahawar on behalf of the Committee and is based on the findings of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India. The audit covers the period from 2016-17 to 2020-21 and provides a detailed evaluation of the state of healthcare services in Delhi. The report aims to identify gaps in the system while also highlighting areas that require immediate attention and policy-level intervention. It serves as an important document for improving governance, accountability, and service delivery in the public health sector.
Comprehensive Audit of Health Services and Infrastructure
The report includes a comprehensive performance audit of various components of Delhi’s healthcare system. It examines health service delivery mechanisms, availability and management of human resources, and the condition of healthcare infrastructure across the city. Special emphasis has been placed on the availability of essential drugs, medicines, equipment, and other consumables, which are critical for efficient healthcare delivery.
The audit also reviews financial management practices within the health sector, assessing how effectively funds have been allocated and utilized. In addition, it evaluates the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes and health-related programs initiated by the Government of NCT of Delhi. The Committee also examined the adequacy and effectiveness of regulatory mechanisms that oversee healthcare services. Another key aspect covered in the report is the progress made toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG-3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all. The report further analyzes the implementation of various programs, schemes, and services, including those related to AYUSH, to provide a holistic view of the healthcare system.
Detailed Deliberations and Committee Proceedings
The Committee undertook an in-depth review of the audit findings through multiple sittings held on 22 May 2025, 24 September 2025, and 23 December 2025. During these sessions, extensive discussions were carried out to understand the issues highlighted in the audit report. Departmental representatives were invited to participate in these meetings and were given sufficient opportunities to present their views and submit written responses on the observations made by the audit authorities.
The Committee ensured that all aspects of the report were carefully examined before arriving at its conclusions. The report was formally adopted during a sitting held on 2 January 2026 after thorough deliberations. The Committee’s approach reflects its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in public administration, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare.
Recognition of Departmental Cooperation and Institutional Support
The Committee appreciated the cooperation extended by the officers of the Health and Family Welfare Department of the Government of NCT of Delhi for providing all necessary information and documents in a timely manner. Their prompt responses and active participation in the review process contributed significantly to the preparation of the report.
The Committee also acknowledged the valuable guidance and support provided by senior officials associated with the audit and finance functions. This includes the Accountant General (Audit), Delhi, representatives from the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, and senior officials from the finance department of the Delhi government. Their expertise and inputs helped the Committee better understand the complexities involved in managing public health services.
In addition, the Committee placed on record its appreciation for the efforts of the officers and staff of the Legislative Assembly Secretariat, who played a crucial role in organizing the sittings and assisting in the compilation and finalization of the report.
Focus on Accountability and Systemic Improvements
The report is expected to serve as a key reference document for policymakers and administrators in strengthening Delhi’s public health system. By identifying gaps in infrastructure, resource management, and service delivery, it provides a roadmap for addressing existing challenges. The findings emphasize the need for improved planning, better utilization of resources, and enhanced monitoring mechanisms to ensure efficient healthcare delivery.
The Committee has underscored the importance of accountability at all levels of administration and has stressed that corrective measures must be implemented in a time-bound manner. The report also highlights the need for continuous evaluation and reform to meet the growing healthcare demands of the population.
Overall, the First Report of the Public Accounts Committee represents a significant step toward improving governance in the health sector and ensuring that public resources are used effectively to deliver quality healthcare services to the citizens of Delhi.
