Archive · 25 Oct 2025
Ex-CAG Official Outlines Blockchain's Role in Accountability
P. Sesh Kumar, a former top auditor, wrote a book about using blockchain technology to make sure money is spent correctly.
Blockchain is like a special, unchangeable record book.
He believes it can help catch misuse of funds quicker.
The book suggests using blockchain for things like tracking money from the government and auditing projects.
Kumar also notes blockchain isn't perfect; it can record transactions but can't ensure they're ethical.
His plan includes testing blockchain in real projects, training auditors, and creating a special lab.
The book wants to change how audits work, making them more proactive, and helping build trust in government spending.
P. Sesh Kumar, former CAG official, advocates for blockchain in public finance.
Book, "The Audit Trail," envisions real-time, preventive oversight with blockchain.
Blockchain could trace fund flows and detect misuse in near-real time.
Kumar emphasizes technology alone cannot ensure ethical behavior.
Proposes pilot projects and auditor retraining for implementing blockchain.
- Who
- P. Sesh Kumar, former Director General of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG).
- What
- Argues blockchain can reshape accountability in public finance and proposes the CAG to be a real-time auditor by utilizing technology.
- When
- The ideas are presented in Kumar's new book, 'The Audit Trail'.
- Where
- The book discusses applications globally, including in China, Pakistan, the UK, and the US, but focuses on India's CAG.
- Why
- To rebuild public trust in the digital era and strengthen transparency.
- Author
- P. Sesh Kumar, former Director General of CAG
- Book Title
- The Audit Trail: How the Audit Trail Heralded Financial Accountability and International Supreme Audit Institutions
- Key Focus
- Blockchain's role in public finance accountability
- Core Argument
- Blockchain can transform audits from reactive to proactive
- Proposed Actions
- Pilot projects, retraining of auditors, Blockchain Audit Lab