The Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG) is a constitutional office in India that possesses both executive and judicial responsibilities. He is appointed by the President of India and holds the office for six years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier. The C&AG is responsible for ensuring financial propriety and soundness of management of public funds in India. He audits, evaluates, and reports on the performance of the executive and legislative branches of the government in the management of their finances. He also reports on the accounts kept by the government and other public bodies and other matters relating to public funds and expenditure. The C&AG is placed above all other auditing authorities in the country and is an important part of the national system of checks and balances that are needed to ensure responsible government.