CAG AUDIT: NATIONAL SOCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMME (NSAP)
1. Context
According to the Comptroller Auditor General THE MINISTRY of Rural Development (MoRD) diverted funds from the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), which includes old age pension schemes, for publicising some of its other schemes
2. Key findings of the report
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) conducted a performance audit of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) for the period 2017-21. The audit revealed that approximately Rs 79 crore was improperly transferred to ineligible beneficiaries under the programme
The audit found that there were several deficiencies in the implementation of NSAP, including:
- Inadequate verification of beneficiary eligibility: The CAG found that in many cases, beneficiaries were not properly verified before they were enrolled in the programme. This resulted in ineligible beneficiaries receiving benefits.
- Lack of transparency in the selection of beneficiaries: The CAG found that the selection of beneficiaries was not always transparent. In some cases, beneficiaries were selected based on political considerations, rather than their need for assistance.
- Delays in disbursal of benefits: The CAG found that there were delays in disbursal of benefits to beneficiaries. This was due to a number of factors, including inadequate funds, lack of coordination between government agencies, and procedural delays.
The CAG's audit of NSAP has highlighted the need for stronger oversight of the programme. The government's response to the audit is a positive step, but it is important to ensure that the recommendations are implemented effectively. Only then can we be confident that NSAP is reaching the intended beneficiaries and that the programme is being implemented in a transparent and efficient manner.
3.National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP)
- The National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) is a welfare programme being administered by the Ministry of Rural Development. This programme is being implemented in rural areas as well as urban areas
- NSAP represents a significant step towards the fulfilment of the Directive Principles of State Policy enshrined in the Constitution of India which enjoin upon the State to undertake within its means a number of welfare measures
- Article 41 of the Constitution of India directs the State to provide public assistance to its citizens in case of unemployment, old age, sickness and disablement and in other cases of undeserved want within the limit of its economic capacity and development
- The National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) then comprised of National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS), National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS) and National Maternity Benefit Scheme (NMBS).
- These programmes were meant for providing social assistance benefit to the aged, the BPL households in the case of death of the primary breadwinner and for maternity
The NSAP has three components:
- The National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS): This scheme provides a monthly pension of Rs 300 to eligible senior citizens (60 years and above).
- The National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS): This scheme provides a lump sum payment of Rs 20,000 to the family of a breadwinner who dies in an accident.
- The National Maternity Benefit Scheme (NMBS): This scheme provides a one-time payment of Rs 6,000 to pregnant women who are below the poverty line.
4. Way Forward
The results of a CAG audit can lead to recommendations for improvements, corrective actions, and, in some cases, uncover instances of financial mismanagement or irregularities. These audits play a crucial role in maintaining transparency, accountability, and efficient use of public funds in government programs, including those aimed at providing national assistance.
Source: indianexpress
