Which of the following expenditures is 'charged' on the Consolidated Fund of India and is not subject to a vote by Parliament?
- Subsidies on food and fertilizers
- Salary and allowances of the President of India
- Defense procurement
- Funding for MGNREGA
Answer: Salary and allowances of the President of India
Charged expenditures, which include the salaries of the President, Supreme Court/High Court judges, and the CAG, as well as debt servicing, are automatically met from the Consolidated Fund. They can be discussed by Parliament but cannot be voted upon to ensure the independence of constitutional authorities.