Control in materials management is an essential managerial function that ensures materials are procured, stored, issued, and utilized in a manner that supports organizational objectives. Materials often constitute a major portion of total production cost, especially in manufacturing organizations, and even in service industries they represent a significant operational expense. Without proper control, organizations may face overstocking, stock-outs, pilferage, obsolescence, and excessive capital tied up in inventory. Therefore, control acts as a mechanism to regulate activities, compare actual performance with planned standards, and initiate corrective actions wherever deviations occur. The need for control in materials management arises primarily from the necessity to maintain an optimum level of inventory. Excess inventory blocks working capital, increases carrying costs such as storage, insurance, and deterioration, and reduces liquidity. On the other hand, insufficient inventory leads to production interruptions, delayed deliveries, loss of customer goodwill, and emergency purchases at higher costs. Control ensures that the right quantity of materials is available at the right time and at the right cost, thereby maintaining operational continuity and cost efficiency. Another important reason for control is cost reduction and cost containment. Materials account for a substantial percentage of the total product cost. Even a small saving in material cost can significantly improve profitability. Through systematic control measures such as standardization, value analysis, budgeting, and