<h1>CAG Report Uncovers Budget Approval Failures in Assam's Zilla Parishads, Raises Concerns Over Financial Mismanagement and Incomplete Devolution</h1> A report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reveals that no Zilla Parishad in Assam had its annual budget approved from 2018 to 2023, despite regular fund releases and expenditures, violating mandatory budget approval rules. Only a small percentage of budgets were submitted, none approved, and financial discipline was lacking. The devolution of funds and functions to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) remains incomplete, with significant outstanding utilization certificates and pending audit paragraphs. The report highlights a decline in PRIs' own revenue sources and inadequate asset management, raising concerns about potential mismanagement.