The Military Lands and Cantonments Department has launched a comprehensive internal audit framework for cantonment boards to improve transparency, accountability and operational effectiveness across all boards. The new system, developed under the direction of senior military leadership and led by the department’s headquarters, introduces standard procedures for inspections and early detection of irregularities to strengthen internal controls and reduce objections during external audits.
The initiative was directed by Secretary Defence Lieutenant General (R) Muhammad Ali Hilal Imtiaz and driven by the vision of Director General Military Lands and Cantonments Major General Irfan Ahmed Malik Hilal Imtiaz (Military). While external audits continue to be conducted by the Directorate General Audit, Defence Services, the department identified a long-standing need for an internal mechanism that enables timely corrective action and lowers the volume of issues flagged in external reviews.
The framework sets clear objectives: ensure transparency and uniformity in auditing procedures, enforce accountability at every level of field offices, and enable prompt identification and correction of irregularities and unnecessary practices. These measures are intended to create consistent auditing standards across all cantonment boards and to ensure compliance with applicable rules and regulations.
Under the leadership of Director Dr. Saima Shah at headquarters, a Standard Operating Procedure was drafted to provide explicit guidance for fair and effective inspection audits. The SOP outlines step-by-step processes for conducting internal inspections so that audits are performed consistently and objectively across different boards.
Officials say the framework is not merely advisory but a committed effort to restore public confidence, establish financial discipline, and deliver tangible results at the grassroots level. By detecting deficiencies, malpractices or illegal activities at an early stage, the internal audit system aims to correct issues before they escalate and to strengthen the financial systems of the cantonment boards.
The department expects that the new internal audit framework will streamline audit processes, improve overall performance and reputation of the cantonment boards, and enhance their effectiveness in delivering public services and upholding good governance.
