Which department is responsible for government expenditure and budgeting in India?

The Department of Expenditure is the correct choice because it plays a critical role in managing government expenditure and the overall budgeting process in India. This department, which operates under the Ministry of Finance, oversees the allocation and utilization of funds, ensuring that expenditures align with the budgetary provisions and fiscal policy established by the government.

The Department of Expenditure is responsible for the preparation of the Union Budget and monitors the spending of various ministries and departments, ensuring fiscal discipline and accountability. It advises the government on financial matters related to expenditure management and helps to maintain transparency in public financial management.

In contrast, while the Department of Economic Affairs focuses on broader economic policies and financial matters, including economic reforms and foreign investment, it does not primarily manage expenditure and budgeting. The Ministry of Home Affairs deals with internal security and related matters, which is unrelated to financial management. The Department of Investment and Public Asset Management is primarily concerned with managing government investments and disinvestment processes rather than direct government expenditure. Thus, the accurate answer is the Department of Expenditure due to its specific mandate in overseeing government spending and budgeting.