Overview During the Zero Hour of the Rajya Sabha on 2 April 2026 , Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP A.D. Singh flagged a massive shortfall in the central government's transfer of cess collections to their designated funds. The allegation is based on a recent Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report covering five decades of fiscal data. Key Developments As of FY 2023-24 , the government allegedly failed to transfer ₹3.69 lakh crore of cess collections to the intended funds. The Oil Industry Development Board (OIDB) recorded a deficit of ₹2.95 crore after collecting ₹902.40 crore between 1974-75 and 1991-92 . In health and education, ₹37,537 crore remained un‑transferred between 2018-19 and 2023-24 . The Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) showed a shortfall of ₹2,505.5 crore . The Monetisation of National Highways Fund had a deficit of ₹5,968.1 crore . Finance Ministry’s claim of transferring ₹3.66 lakh crore (2018-19 to 2023-24) clashes with government accounts showing only ₹2.65 lakh crore , indicating a gap of over ₹1 lakh crore . Important Facts The CAG report traces the earliest lapses to 1974 , suggesting systemic weaknesses in fund‑flow monitoring. The MP raised two questions: (1) why cess collections were not transferred, and (2) what corrective measures have been taken. UPSC Relevance Understanding the role of Zero Hour is essential for GS2. The episode illustrates the functioning of parliamentary oversight, the accountability mechanisms of the CAG , and the importance of transparent fiscal management—core topics for GS3 (Economy). The magnitude of the shortfall underscores the need for robust public finance management and the impact of earmarked taxes (cess) on sectoral development. Way Forward Immediate reconciliation of the Finance Ministry’s transfer figures with actual accounts. Strengthening inter‑departmental monitoring mechanisms for cess‑linked funds. Parliamentary committees to audit sector‑specific boards such as OIDB and IEPF. Public disclosure of fund‑flow statements to enhance transparency and citizen trust. Addressing these gaps is crucial for ensuring that levied cess contributes to the intended welfare and infrastructure outcomes, a key concern for policymakers and UPSC aspirants alike.