Implementation of Risk-Based Internal Audit in the Government of Bihar

In 2011, through this USD 220,000 project, Cowater field tested the draft internal audit strategy in Bihar, India. In partnership with a core team selected from the Internal Audit Department of the Government of Bihar the strategy was developed through the previously completed Comprehensive Treasury Management and Information System project funded by the World Bank. This past project supported the Government of India in strengthening its Public Expenditure Management capacity through streamlining of financial business processes, including processes for budget preparation approval and execution, internal controls and audit, procurement, accounting, and financial reporting. Through the testing of the internal audit strategy, Cowater helped build the capacity of internal audit staff and the core team, assessed the robustness and validity of the strategy and the audit manual and suggesting changes where necessary.