This document provides an overview of municipal audits in India. It discusses why municipalities require audits, the objectives of audits which include ensuring financial statements are fair and systems of control are strong. It describes the responsibilities of administrators to make records available and of auditors to act with integrity and independence. The document outlines various audit techniques used including inspection of documents, observation, inquiry, computation, analytical review, flowcharting and interviewing. It concludes that transparency and accountability are important for municipalities and audits play a vital role in preserving integrity and public confidence.
Mahindra World City Jaipur, Special Economic Zone, Domestic Tariff Area, Engi...Prashant Yadav
Mahindra World City, Jaipur (MWCJ) is an integrated business city focused on creating economic centers of development and new urban nodes. MWCJ is a 74:26 joint venture between Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd. and the Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation Ltd (RIICO), an agency of the Government of Rajasthan.
MWCJ consists of dedicated areas for Multi-Product Special Economic Zone (SEZ), a Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) and Social & Residential Infrastructure Zones.
Currently, MWCJ has signed up over 67 world class companies in various zones, which include names like JCB, Perto, Rexam, Mahindra & Mahindra, Infosys, Metlife, Deutsche Bank, ICICI Bank, Genpact, Nucleus Software, Gravita India, KnitPro International, Ratan Textiles, Bharat Skill Development Corporation, etc among others.
The cumulative exports by various units based at MWCJ is approximately Rs. 4,000 Crore. As of Sep 30, 2015 it has already creating employment of about 10,500 numbers and the total investments by MWCJ and various units have crossed Rs. 2500 crores.
MWCJ is working together with Govt. of Rajasthan in in contributing to drive industrialization initiatives for Rajasthan by attracting investments, generating employment, contributing to exports and providing long term solutions to the urban challenges we face today.
Mahindra World City Jaipur, Special Economic Zone, Domestic Tariff Area, Engi...Prashant Yadav
Mahindra World City, Jaipur (MWCJ) is an integrated business city focused on creating economic centers of development and new urban nodes. MWCJ is a 74:26 joint venture between Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd. and the Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation Ltd (RIICO), an agency of the Government of Rajasthan.
MWCJ consists of dedicated areas for Multi-Product Special Economic Zone (SEZ), a Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) and Social & Residential Infrastructure Zones.
Currently, MWCJ has signed up over 67 world class companies in various zones, which include names like JCB, Perto, Rexam, Mahindra & Mahindra, Infosys, Metlife, Deutsche Bank, ICICI Bank, Genpact, Nucleus Software, Gravita India, KnitPro International, Ratan Textiles, Bharat Skill Development Corporation, etc among others.
The cumulative exports by various units based at MWCJ is approximately Rs. 4,000 Crore. As of Sep 30, 2015 it has already creating employment of about 10,500 numbers and the total investments by MWCJ and various units have crossed Rs. 2500 crores.
MWCJ is working together with Govt. of Rajasthan in in contributing to drive industrialization initiatives for Rajasthan by attracting investments, generating employment, contributing to exports and providing long term solutions to the urban challenges we face today.
Housing and Poverty Alleviation Through Five Year Plans in IndiaJIT KUMAR GUPTA
During last more than seven decades of Independence from British Rule in 1947, India has been struggling to find solution to appropriate housing for the ever increasing pressure of population and rapid urban and rural migration. Stating with 1947, with more than 6 million people, under forced migration led by the division of India by creation of Pakistan as a separate nation, India has been grappling with finding appropriate solutions to the ever evolving, ever devolving problem of appropriate shelter for its ever rising population. With Five year plans dictating the national physical, social and economic growth agenda, attempt has been made to create housing and overcoming poverty through various schemes and programs launched through various Five year Plans by the respective governments, heading the Indian democratic structure. The contents, scope and approach of these program, policies and schemes have varied during various plan periods, depending upon the resources available, felt need of the community, priority for development, emerging problems facing the country etc. However, despite housing and poverty remaining a major issue, allocation of adequate resources allocated remained disproportionate to the need and requirement of the community. Based on the available data and the texts already written, attempt has been made to bring out various programs launched during the various plan periods, to showcase the approach adopted by India , as a nation, in meeting with its agenda of making accessible housing for all, managing poverty and reform agenda taken up in the urban context. Text also describes the agencies created for promoting planning, development, management and financing of shelter at the national, state and local levels.Indian journey during last more than seven decades makes an interesting reading with numerous lessons and learning, which remain valuable.
The presentation elucidates the study aimed at exploring the need of PPP model in India, with respect to capacities and capabilities of municipal governments to handle finance and governance of large scale urban infrastructure projects.
Master Plan for Delhi–with the Perspective for the Year 2021
Here is the official Delhi Master Plan 2021. It is being uploaded by FSGOWS for Public viewing and downloading.
TDR - CASE STUDIES OF MUMBAI CHENNAI BANGALORE
TRANSFERABLE DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS
Transferable Development Rights or TDR can be considered as an important raw material in the real estate industry as it allows the developer to build over and above the permissible Floor Space Index (FSI) under the prevalent rules of the respective locations.
Easements are certain rights connected with enjoyment o immovable property. The easement rights and obligation arise as a result of local or general custom. It is the right which the owner or occupier of a land possesses for the beneficial enjoyment of that land.
The Land on which the right of beneficial enjoyment has been created is called the dominant heritage (owner: Dominant owner)
The land on which easement is created is called the Servient heritage ( owner: Servient owner)
Bhopal smart city development corporation limited (BSCDCL), is a company incorporated under Indian Companies Act 2013, with a sole objective of Planning and Implementing the “Smart city project” in Bhopal.
The company is jointly owned by the Government of MP and is equally managed by Madhya Pradesh Urban Development Company Limited (MPUDCL) and Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC)
This webinar was hosted on 20th August, 2015 from 4:00 – 5:00 pm IST and was presented by Vijay Anadkat, Senior Manager, EMBARQ India.
With a view to recast the urban landscape of India and make urban areas more livable and inclusive to drive economic growth in the country, the Government of India recently launched two ambitious projects - Smart City and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transportation (AMRUT). The purpose of AMRUT is to 1) ensure that every household has access to a tap with assured supply of water and a sewerage connection; 2) increase the amenity value of cities by developing greenery and well maintained open spaces; and 3) reduce pollution by switching to public transport or constructing facilities for non-motorized transport. The Mission is being implemented in 500 cities towns with a population of over 1 lakh.
This webinar discussed the current state of urbanization in India, the various propositions suggested by the government as a part of the AMRUT scheme and the feasibility of this project.
Webinar Recording - http://embarqindiahub.org/webinars/atal-mission-rejuvenation-and-urban-transportation-amrut-achievable-or-not
Professional practice of architects-Role of an architect (COA)Aditi Garg
ROLE OF AN ARCHITECT IN PROJECT REALISATION-
The Classic Steps to the Process
The process is typically broken down into the following steps:
1. Pre-Design Phase (PD)
2. Schematic Design Phase (SD)
3. Design Development Phase (DD)
4. Construction Documents Phase (CD)
5. Bidding & Negotiation Phase (BN)
6. Construction Observation/Contract Administration Phase (CA)
7. Supplemental Services (SS)
Municipal Finances in India and Alternative Sources of Municipal FinanceRavikant Joshi
This PPT delivered to CEPT University Students provides detailed and latests information about municipal finances in India as of 2021 and discusses potential of alternative sources of finance for municipal bodies of India
Housing and Poverty Alleviation Through Five Year Plans in IndiaJIT KUMAR GUPTA
During last more than seven decades of Independence from British Rule in 1947, India has been struggling to find solution to appropriate housing for the ever increasing pressure of population and rapid urban and rural migration. Stating with 1947, with more than 6 million people, under forced migration led by the division of India by creation of Pakistan as a separate nation, India has been grappling with finding appropriate solutions to the ever evolving, ever devolving problem of appropriate shelter for its ever rising population. With Five year plans dictating the national physical, social and economic growth agenda, attempt has been made to create housing and overcoming poverty through various schemes and programs launched through various Five year Plans by the respective governments, heading the Indian democratic structure. The contents, scope and approach of these program, policies and schemes have varied during various plan periods, depending upon the resources available, felt need of the community, priority for development, emerging problems facing the country etc. However, despite housing and poverty remaining a major issue, allocation of adequate resources allocated remained disproportionate to the need and requirement of the community. Based on the available data and the texts already written, attempt has been made to bring out various programs launched during the various plan periods, to showcase the approach adopted by India , as a nation, in meeting with its agenda of making accessible housing for all, managing poverty and reform agenda taken up in the urban context. Text also describes the agencies created for promoting planning, development, management and financing of shelter at the national, state and local levels.Indian journey during last more than seven decades makes an interesting reading with numerous lessons and learning, which remain valuable.
The presentation elucidates the study aimed at exploring the need of PPP model in India, with respect to capacities and capabilities of municipal governments to handle finance and governance of large scale urban infrastructure projects.
Master Plan for Delhi–with the Perspective for the Year 2021
Here is the official Delhi Master Plan 2021. It is being uploaded by FSGOWS for Public viewing and downloading.
TDR - CASE STUDIES OF MUMBAI CHENNAI BANGALORE
TRANSFERABLE DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS
Transferable Development Rights or TDR can be considered as an important raw material in the real estate industry as it allows the developer to build over and above the permissible Floor Space Index (FSI) under the prevalent rules of the respective locations.
Easements are certain rights connected with enjoyment o immovable property. The easement rights and obligation arise as a result of local or general custom. It is the right which the owner or occupier of a land possesses for the beneficial enjoyment of that land.
The Land on which the right of beneficial enjoyment has been created is called the dominant heritage (owner: Dominant owner)
The land on which easement is created is called the Servient heritage ( owner: Servient owner)
Bhopal smart city development corporation limited (BSCDCL), is a company incorporated under Indian Companies Act 2013, with a sole objective of Planning and Implementing the “Smart city project” in Bhopal.
The company is jointly owned by the Government of MP and is equally managed by Madhya Pradesh Urban Development Company Limited (MPUDCL) and Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC)
This webinar was hosted on 20th August, 2015 from 4:00 – 5:00 pm IST and was presented by Vijay Anadkat, Senior Manager, EMBARQ India.
With a view to recast the urban landscape of India and make urban areas more livable and inclusive to drive economic growth in the country, the Government of India recently launched two ambitious projects - Smart City and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transportation (AMRUT). The purpose of AMRUT is to 1) ensure that every household has access to a tap with assured supply of water and a sewerage connection; 2) increase the amenity value of cities by developing greenery and well maintained open spaces; and 3) reduce pollution by switching to public transport or constructing facilities for non-motorized transport. The Mission is being implemented in 500 cities towns with a population of over 1 lakh.
This webinar discussed the current state of urbanization in India, the various propositions suggested by the government as a part of the AMRUT scheme and the feasibility of this project.
Webinar Recording - http://embarqindiahub.org/webinars/atal-mission-rejuvenation-and-urban-transportation-amrut-achievable-or-not
Professional practice of architects-Role of an architect (COA)Aditi Garg
ROLE OF AN ARCHITECT IN PROJECT REALISATION-
The Classic Steps to the Process
The process is typically broken down into the following steps:
1. Pre-Design Phase (PD)
2. Schematic Design Phase (SD)
3. Design Development Phase (DD)
4. Construction Documents Phase (CD)
5. Bidding & Negotiation Phase (BN)
6. Construction Observation/Contract Administration Phase (CA)
7. Supplemental Services (SS)
Municipal Finances in India and Alternative Sources of Municipal FinanceRavikant Joshi
This PPT delivered to CEPT University Students provides detailed and latests information about municipal finances in India as of 2021 and discusses potential of alternative sources of finance for municipal bodies of India
The depth and scope of examination, time of audit, processing methods, etc. In deciding on a specific technique, also need to take account of the objective of the audit action and the capacities limited by time or other factors.
An internal control manual is critical for local government to enhance accountability and consistency in operations. Ron Steinkamp outlines the six key steps to developing an effective manual.
Auditors independence
Independence of the internal auditor
Independence of the external auditor
Types of independence
Real independence and perceived independence
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AUDITING WITH OTHER SUBJECTS
Bortoletti, the italian brunetta reform of public administration and corrupti...Maurizio Bortoletti
The fight against corruption and other offenses against public administration must be based on accurate and objective data to give citizens a realistic representation of the situation and not ultra sized, taking into account that it is evoking themes and sensational easily usable by this or that political party
What is the first thing to consider when you approach the theme of "corruption"?
That of the extreme confusion. In a matter so evocative and striking as that of corruption to be informed, and be properly and completely, as far as possible, it seems like the best strategy and, together, the best antidote to unnecessary alarm.
Francesca Gottschalk - How can education support child empowerment.pptxEduSkills OECD
Francesca Gottschalk from the OECD’s Centre for Educational Research and Innovation presents at the Ask an Expert Webinar: How can education support child empowerment?
Macroeconomics- Movie Location
This will be used as part of your Personal Professional Portfolio once graded.
Objective:
Prepare a presentation or a paper using research, basic comparative analysis, data organization and application of economic information. You will make an informed assessment of an economic climate outside of the United States to accomplish an entertainment industry objective.
How to Make a Field invisible in Odoo 17Celine George
It is possible to hide or invisible some fields in odoo. Commonly using “invisible” attribute in the field definition to invisible the fields. This slide will show how to make a field invisible in odoo 17.
A Strategic Approach: GenAI in EducationPeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
Unit 8 - Information and Communication Technology (Paper I).pdfThiyagu K
This slides describes the basic concepts of ICT, basics of Email, Emerging Technology and Digital Initiatives in Education. This presentations aligns with the UGC Paper I syllabus.
Acetabularia Information For Class 9 .docxvaibhavrinwa19
Acetabularia acetabulum is a single-celled green alga that in its vegetative state is morphologically differentiated into a basal rhizoid and an axially elongated stalk, which bears whorls of branching hairs. The single diploid nucleus resides in the rhizoid.
The French Revolution, which began in 1789, was a period of radical social and political upheaval in France. It marked the decline of absolute monarchies, the rise of secular and democratic republics, and the eventual rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. This revolutionary period is crucial in understanding the transition from feudalism to modernity in Europe.
For more information, visit-www.vavaclasses.com
Model Attribute Check Company Auto PropertyCeline George
In Odoo, the multi-company feature allows you to manage multiple companies within a single Odoo database instance. Each company can have its own configurations while still sharing common resources such as products, customers, and suppliers.
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
Introduction to AI for Nonprofits with Tapp NetworkTechSoup
Dive into the world of AI! Experts Jon Hill and Tareq Monaur will guide you through AI's role in enhancing nonprofit websites and basic marketing strategies, making it easy to understand and apply.
June 3, 2024 Anti-Semitism Letter Sent to MIT President Kornbluth and MIT Cor...Levi Shapiro
Letter from the Congress of the United States regarding Anti-Semitism sent June 3rd to MIT President Sally Kornbluth, MIT Corp Chair, Mark Gorenberg
Dear Dr. Kornbluth and Mr. Gorenberg,
The US House of Representatives is deeply concerned by ongoing and pervasive acts of antisemitic
harassment and intimidation at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Failing to act decisively to ensure a safe learning environment for all students would be a grave dereliction of your responsibilities as President of MIT and Chair of the MIT Corporation.
This Congress will not stand idly by and allow an environment hostile to Jewish students to persist. The House believes that your institution is in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, and the inability or
unwillingness to rectify this violation through action requires accountability.
Postsecondary education is a unique opportunity for students to learn and have their ideas and beliefs challenged. However, universities receiving hundreds of millions of federal funds annually have denied
students that opportunity and have been hijacked to become venues for the promotion of terrorism, antisemitic harassment and intimidation, unlawful encampments, and in some cases, assaults and riots.
The House of Representatives will not countenance the use of federal funds to indoctrinate students into hateful, antisemitic, anti-American supporters of terrorism. Investigations into campus antisemitism by the Committee on Education and the Workforce and the Committee on Ways and Means have been expanded into a Congress-wide probe across all relevant jurisdictions to address this national crisis. The undersigned Committees will conduct oversight into the use of federal funds at MIT and its learning environment under authorities granted to each Committee.
• The Committee on Education and the Workforce has been investigating your institution since December 7, 2023. The Committee has broad jurisdiction over postsecondary education, including its compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, campus safety concerns over disruptions to the learning environment, and the awarding of federal student aid under the Higher Education Act.
• The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is investigating the sources of funding and other support flowing to groups espousing pro-Hamas propaganda and engaged in antisemitic harassment and intimidation of students. The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is the principal oversight committee of the US House of Representatives and has broad authority to investigate “any matter” at “any time” under House Rule X.
• The Committee on Ways and Means has been investigating several universities since November 15, 2023, when the Committee held a hearing entitled From Ivory Towers to Dark Corners: Investigating the Nexus Between Antisemitism, Tax-Exempt Universities, and Terror Financing. The Committee followed the hearing with letters to those institutions on January 10, 202
Embracing GenAI - A Strategic ImperativePeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
1. Graduate Report: 2012-2013
Urban Governance and Management (CE-638)
Municipal Audit
Submitted By
Malvika Jiashal
(P12UP004)
Faculty Adviser
Dr. Krupesh A. Chauhan
Asst. Prof. Chetan R Patel
Post Graduate Section in Urban Planning
Civil Engineering Department,
2. Graduate Report: 2012-2013
Contents
1. Introduction
2. Municipal Audit
3. Why municipalities have an audit?
3.1.Objectives of Audit
3.2. Administration’s responsibilities
4. Auditors
4.1. Responsibilities of Auditors
5. Audit Techniques
6. Summary
References
3. Graduate Report: 2012-2013
1. Introduction
Audit is an evaluation of a person, organization, system, process, enterprise, project
or product. Audit” is an instrument of financial control. In its relation to commercial
transactions, it provide independent assurance that financial information is reliable
This graduate report is an attempt to give a brief view on Municipal audit, its concept,
objective and techniques used for audit.
2. Municipal Audit
In the year 2001, Government of India (GoI), based on the recommendations of the
Eleventh Finance Commission, issued guidelines to the Comptroller and Auditor General of
India (CAG), to prescribe formats of Budget and Accounts for Panchyat Raj Institutions and
Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) amenable to computerization. In September, 2003, the GoI
suggested to the CAG to develop National Municipal Accounts Manual (NMAM). In
December, 2004, the NMAM developed by CAG was made available to State Governments
across the country for development of State-specific Budget and Accounts Manuals to be
used by the ULBs.
A municipality can be defined as a unit of local self government in an urban area. By
the term ‘local self –government in an urban area, is ordinarily understood the administration
of a locality-a village, a town, activity or any other area smaller than a state-by a body
representing the local inhabitants, possessing fairly large autonomy, raising at least a part of
its revenue through local taxation and spending its income on services which are regarded as
local and, therefore, distinct from state and central services.
These bodies derived their revenue from a numbers of sources-taxes on property,
taxes on trade, taxes on persons, fees an licences, non-taxes resource such as rent of land,
houses, income from commercial undertaking, government grants etc.
Property taxes and octroi are the major sources of the municipal authorities; other
municipal taxes are profession tax, non- mechanised vehicle tax, taxes on advertisement,
taxes on animal and boats, tolls, show-tax, etc. local bodies may receive different types of
grants from the state administration as well.
4. Graduate Report: 2012-2013
3. Why municipalities have an audit?
Legislators, other Government officials, and the public want to know whether:
i. Government resources are managed properly and used in compliance with laws and
regulations.
ii. Government programmes are achieving their objectives and desired outcomes.
iii. Government services are being provided efficiently, economically, and effectively
Financial audits play a vital role in helping to preserve the integrity of public finance and
maintain citizens’ confidence in their elected leaders. Transparency and accountability in
government is essential to show that public functions are being carried out efficiently,
ethically and equitably.
3.1. Objectives of Audit
The external control of municipal expenditure is exercised by the state governments
through the appointment of auditors to examine municipal accounts. The municipal
corporations of Delhi, Bombay and a few others have powers to appoint their own auditors
for regular external audit.
The important objectives of audit are:
a. reporting on the fairness of the content and presentation of financial statements;
b. reporting upon the strength and weaknesses of systems of financial control;
c. reporting upon whether value is being fully received on money spent; and
d. Detection and prevention of error, fraud and misuse of resources.
3.2.Responsibilities of Administration
Each administrative has some responsibilities, that have to be taken care of, which will
help the auditor during municipal Audit procedure:
i. All records and books of account should be completed, posted, balanced and made
available for examination by the auditor.
ii. Supporting data should be grouped and matched to provide for easy examination.
iii. Payroll records should be completed for the fiscal period and required forms should be
completed and filed with the appropriate government ministry or agency.
5. Graduate Report: 2012-2013
iv. A general ledger trial balance should be completed to determine whether adjusting
entries are required.
v. Adjustments should be journalized and posted so that a working trial balance can be
completed prior to the audit
4. Auditors
It would be imminent on the part of the auditor to understand financial administration
of local bodies before embarking upon the audit.
Some of the aspects are as under:
a. Budgetary Procedure
This is geared to sub serve the twin consideration of financial accountability
and control of expenditure. The main objective is to ensure that funds are raised and
moneys are spent by the executive departments in accordance with the rules and
regulation and within the limits of sanction and authorization by the legislation or
council.
b. Expenditure Control
The system of financial control obtaining in the state and central government
level is conditioned by the fact that there is a clear demarcation between the
legislature and executive. The integration of legislation and executive powers in the
municipal council makes it difficult for its executive to function as its inquisitorial
body as well. Moreover the separation of executive powers and function in municipal
government cannot accommodate the existence committee. This leaves the system of
external audit by state government as the only instrument of controlling municipal
expenditure.
c. Accounting System
Municipal accounting and budget format have been criticised as neither simple
nor comprehensible, sometime providing inadequate information and at other times
surfeit of information. Both these situation are not conductive to a proper system of
management information.
6. Graduate Report: 2012-2013
4.1.Responsibilities of Auditor
The auditor is to ensure that the prescribed standards of accounting are observed and that the
transactions are entered under proper heads. The responsibilities of auditor are as follows:
i. Auditors should act in a way that will serve the public interest, honour the public trust,
and uphold their professionalism.
ii. Auditors need to make decisions that are consistent with the public interest in the
programme or activity under audit.
iii. Auditors need to perform all professional responsibilities with a highest degree of
integrity.
iv. Auditors need to be professional, objective, fact-based, non-partisan, and non-ideological
in their relationship with audited organisations and users of the auditors’ reports.
v. Auditors are also responsible for being independent in fact and appearance when
providing services.
vi. Auditors should be objective and free of conflicts of interest in discharging their
professional responsibilities
5. Audit Techniques
The auditor obtains evidence in performing compliance and substantive procedures by
one or more of the following methods:
i. Inspection
ii. Observation
iii. Inquiry and confirmation
iv. Computation
v. Analytical Review
vi. Flowcharting; and
vii. Interviewing
5.1. Inspection
Inspection consists of examining records or documents. It provides evidence of
varying degrees of reliability depending on their nature and source and the effectiveness of
internal control over their processing.
7. Graduate Report: 2012-2013
Four major categories of documentary audit evidence, which provide different degrees of
reliability to the auditor, are:
a) Documentary evidence created by third parties and held by the auditor;
b) Documentary audit evidence created and held by third parties;
c) Documentary audit evidence created by third parties and held by the organisation
d) Documentary audit evidence created and held by the organisation.
5.2. Observation
Observation consists of looking at a process or procedure being performed by others, for
example, the observation by the auditor of the counting of inventories by the organization’s
personnel or the performance of control procedures that leave no audit trail.
Advantages
a) It provides a greater understanding of the business through audit involvement with
operational personnel.
b) Information collected reflects actual behaviour and current events and not past events
Disadvantages
c) Potentially time consuming and difficult to record data and observe large numbers of
people or activities.
d) Random observation may not provide an adequate evaluation of the process due to
fluctuations in volume or activity.
5.3. Inquiry and confirmation
Inquiry: involves seeking information from knowledgeable persons inside or outside the
organisation. Inquiry involves seeking information from knowledgeable persons inside or
outside the organisation
Confirmation is the name given to a specific form of inquiry that is particularly widely used.
It involves obtaining written confirmation from a third party in relation to an account balance
8. Graduate Report: 2012-2013
in which the third party has an interest. For example, the auditor normally requests
confirmation of receivables by direct confirmation with debtors
Confirmations are best used where there is a knowledgeable party, independent of the
organisation and where alternative reliable evidence is not readily available
5.4. Computation
Computation consists of checking the arithmetical accuracy or reasonableness of
source documents and accounting records or of performing independent calculations. The
main advantage is it may provide the most efficient method to evaluate the outcome of a
certain process The disadvantage is it may be complex and time consuming and may require
assistance of outside experts, particularly where a valuation is being assessed - for example,
the internal auditor’s assessment of accuracy of iron ore stock-pile inventory recording
processes.
5.5. Analytical Review
Analytical review procedures may be defined as substantive tests of financial
information made by a study of comparisons and relationship among data i.e. analytical
review involves a comparison of detail balances or statistical data on a period-to-period basis
in an effort to substantiate reasonableness without systematic examination of the transactions
comprising the account balances.
Analytical procedures are used for the following purposes:
i. To assist the auditor in planning the nature, timing and extent of other auditing
procedure.
ii. As a substantive test to obtain evidential matter about particular assertions related to
balances or classes of transactions As an overall review of the financial information in
the final review stage of the audit
iii. In some cases, analytical review procedure can be more effective or efficient than
tests of details in reducing detection risk for specific financial statement assertions.
Analytical procedures include comparison of financial information with:
i. Comparable information for a prior period or periods
ii. Anticipated results, such as budgets or forecasts; and
9. Graduate Report: 2012-2013
iii. Similar organisation information, such as comparison of the ratio of Establishment
iv. Expenses to Total Income with the averages of other organisations of comparable size
Analytical procedures also include study of relationship:
i. Among elements of financial information that would be expected to confirm to a
predictable pattern based on the organisation’s experience
ii. Between financial information and relevant non-financial information
Analytic review is based on the assumption that comparability of period-to-period
balances and ratios shows them to be free from significant error. A well performed analytic
review not only benefits the examination by providing an understanding of the ULB’s
operations, but also highlights matters of interest and potential problem situations
5.6. Flowcharting
A flowchart is a method for documenting and understanding the flow of a system and for
identifying its control points. This technique can be resorted to for evaluation of the internal
control system. It is a pictorial description of how transactions flow through a system. They
visually communicate the procedures, controls and the sequence in which they occur.
The advantages of using a flowchart to document a system are as follows:
i. Flowcharts are easier and less time consuming to understand than a narrative
ii. Flowcharts make it easier to represent flow of transactions using standardized
symbols
iii. It gives a bird’s eye view of the system
iv. Flowcharts are easier to update
There are three rules of flowcharting as it relates to auditing:
i. Prepare or update a flowchart for each audit, where practicable.
ii. Identify control points.
iii. Prepare a narrative on control points.
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5.7. Interviewing
Interview can also be described by other synonyms such as audience, conference,
consultation, dialogue, meeting, talk, examine, interrogate, question etc. Interviewing is a
process for gathering information which is a fundamental part of audit work.
Various types of interview are
a) Initial contact: This sets entire tone and tenor of the audit programme. The auditee
perceives the audit as a positive and constructive tool or avoidable inconvenience.
The terms of reference for the audit are discussed and a clear mutual understanding is
established.
b) Fact finding: This is backbone of the audit work and a fine balance is required to be
maintained between getting the facts and disturbing the auditee’s work to avoid
conflict. Negotiation skills, tact, and diplomatic approach are to be adopted.
c) General survey: A general assessment of the overall domain environment to
understand work culture and to define high areas of risk that may require interaction
with senior officials. An effort shall be made to sell the audit as a service.
d) Wrap up meeting: This wrap up meeting involves explaining the audit findings to
the senior officials in order to avoid surprises to them in the final audit report. It is a
special negotiation process wherein the auditor is able to retain main audit paras but
tones down certain other paras wherein the senior officers are able to bring in new
perspective to initial audit findings. Personality factors may create sometimes a
barrier to the effectiveness of audit closure process and finalization of report.
e) Staff appraisal: This appraisal process is intended to appreciate staff attitudes, skills,
and motivational needs.
f) Fraud: Statutory implications shall be borne in mind as interviews in connection
with investigations are covered under various Acts, such as Criminal Procedure Code,
Evidence Act, Anti-Corruption Act and disclosure requirements stipulated in Rights
to Information Act.
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6. Summary
Transparency and accountability in government is essential to show that public
functions are being carried out efficiently, ethically, and equitably. Financial audits play a
vital role in helping to preserve the integrity of public finance and maintain citizens’
confidence in their elected leaders. The audits of the accounts of ULBs have generally been
unsatisfactory to a large extent and it is an acknowledged fact that these audits have virtually
ceased to have practical effect in ensuring the integrity of ULBs.
Government, auditors and inspectors need appropriate information to monitor
progress and assess performance. For better value for money, better financial management
and improved financial reporting, there is an urgent need to deliver high-quality, risk-based
audit in synchronization with the trends in urban sector reforms. This includes the use of
resources assessment with a specific judgment on how well ULBs achieve value for money.
Promote world-class financial management and reporting by local authorities and provide
practical guidance to assist them in achieving those high standards.
References
1. “Andhra Pradesh Municipal Audit Manual (February 2008), Department of
Municipal Administration and Urban Development, Government of Andhra Pradesh.
2. “Audit Manual for Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies”, issued by The
Internal Audit Agency/Ministry o f Local Government and Rural Development.
3. “National Municipal Accounts Manual” (November 2004,) issued by Government of
India Ministry of Urban Development.