With reference to the Estimates Committee in India, consider the following statements: 1. It was first set up in the post-independence era in 1950 on the recommendation of John Mathai. 2. It consists of 30 members, elected from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. 3. No minister can be elected as a member of this committee. Which of the statements given above are correct?

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The first Estimates Committee in the post-independence period was set up in 1950 on the recommendation of John Mathai, the then Finance Minister. Statement 2 is incorrect: Originally, it had 25 members, which was increased to 30 in 1956. All the 30 members are drawn entirely from the Lok Sabha (the Lower House); the Rajya Sabha has no representation in this committee. Statement 3 is correct: A minister cannot be elected as a member of the committee. If a member, after election to the committee, is appointed as a minister, they cease to be a member from the date of such appointment.