The recent concerns raised by the Director General of Accounts and Treasuries (DGAT) regarding discrepancies in online treasury data are not just technical issues; they are a systemic problem with far-reaching implications for governance and financial accountability. The mismatch between hard-copy payment lists and digital records, along with errors in classifying critical accounts, signals a troubling lapse in the efficient handling of public funds. These irregularities must be addressed immediately to prevent the delays they cause in closing monthly accounts and to restore confidence in the Treasury system. When the figures submitted in hard copy do not match their digital counterparts, it becomes impossible to maintain accurate and timely financial statements. This gap requires manual adjustments, further prolonging the already delayed process of monthly account closures. As public funds and financial management hinge on timely submissions, this delay is unacceptable and compromises the quality of governance.
Equally concerning is the incorrect classification of accounts under major heads, such as GP Fund and police personnel accounts. Misclassification not only disrupts the flow of funds but also creates unnecessary confusion in financial reporting. This, in turn, hampers budgetary allocations, affects the disbursement of funds, and impedes the efficient functioning of departments. The need for Treasury Officers and DDOs to ensure proper classification of expenditures is more urgent than ever. The DGAT’s circular rightly underscores the need for Treasury Officers and Account Rendering to adhere strictly to deadlines for submitting monthly accounts. Following the directive, monthly civil accounts have to be compiled and rendered to the UT Government within the stipulated seven-day period. Any further laxity in submitting accounts by the 5th of each month will only compound existing delays and could lead to financial mismanagement at higher levels of Government. Efficient Treasury management ensures that public resources are allocated and utilised in a manner that benefits society as a whole. It is now essential for all departments involved to act swiftly and in unison to correct these irregularities, improve the Treasury data system, and uphold fiscal discipline.
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