Part C_Competitive_Corruption_21/Dec/2022

1. Corruption has adverse effects on the economy and society of our country. Comment on the steps taken to
curb Corruption.

Corruption indeed has adverse effects on the economy and society, undermining trust, distorting market
mechanisms, diverting resources, and hindering overall development. To tackle this issue, several steps have been
taken in India to curb corruption. Here are some key measures:

1. Legislative measures: The Indian government has enacted various laws and acts to combat corruption,
including the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. These laws aim to
deter corrupt practices, establish anti-corruption institutions, and provide legal frameworks for investigation,
prosecution, and punishment of corrupt individuals.
2. Anti-corruption institutions: The establishment of institutions such as the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)
and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) serves as important pillars in the fight against corruption. These
institutions are responsible for investigating corruption cases, enforcing laws, and promoting transparency and
integrity in public administration.
3. Whistle-blower protection: The Whistle-blower Protection Act, 2014, provides safeguards and legal protection
to individuals who expose corruption and wrongdoing in public and private organizations. This encourages
individuals to come forward and report corruption without fear of reprisals.
4. Digital initiatives and e-governance: The digitization of government services and the promotion of e-
governance have helped reduce corruption by minimizing human interface and promoting transparency.
Initiatives such as e-tendering, online portals for public services, and direct benefit transfer (DBT) schemes
have reduced opportunities for bribery and leakage of funds.
5. Strengthening accountability: Measures to enhance accountability, such as the introduction of asset
declaration norms for public servants, mandatory filing of income tax returns, and the use of technology for
monitoring and tracking funds, have been implemented. These steps help create a culture of accountability
and discourage corrupt practices.
6. Transparency and anti-bribery measures: The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, has been instrumental in
promoting transparency and accountability in public administration. It enables citizens to seek information
about government processes, decisions, and expenditures. Additionally, India has ratified the United Nations
Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and implemented anti-bribery measures to combat bribery in both
domestic and international transactions.
7. Promoting digital payments: Encouraging digital transactions and reducing the reliance on cash has the
potential to curb corruption. Digital payment platforms and initiatives like the Unified Payments Interface
(UPI), Aadhaar-based services, and digital wallets have contributed to minimizing corruption by promoting
transparency and reducing opportunities for bribery.

While significant steps have been taken to curb corruption, it remains a complex and deeply entrenched issue.
Continued efforts are required to strengthen enforcement, ensure effective implementation of anti-corruption
measures, promote ethical practices, and foster a culture of transparency and accountability at all levels of society.
Public awareness, citizen participation, and a strong commitment from the government and institutions are crucial
in the ongoing fight against corruption.

Part C_Competitive_Corruption_30/March/2022
1. “Corruption is an important manifestation of the failure of ethics.” In the light of the statement discuss the
various reasons for the prevalence of corruption and the measures needed to eradicate it.

The statement that "corruption is an important manifestation of the failure of ethics" highlights the underlying
ethical dimension of corruption. It suggests that corruption arises from a moral and ethical breakdown within
society. In order to address and eradicate corruption, it is essential to understand the reasons for its prevalence
and take appropriate measures. Here are some key reasons for the prevalence of corruption and the measures
needed to combat it:

1. Lack of transparency and accountability: Weak transparency and accountability mechanisms create fertile
ground for corruption. Lack of transparency in decision-making processes, public procurement, and financial
transactions provides opportunities for corrupt practices. Strengthening transparency and implementing
effective mechanisms for accountability, such as the use of technology, open data initiatives, and citizen
participation, can help combat corruption.
2. Impunity and weak enforcement: When there is a lack of strong enforcement and accountability measures,
corrupt individuals are less likely to face consequences for their actions. Effective investigation, prosecution,
and punishment of corrupt individuals are crucial to deter corruption. Strengthening anti-corruption
institutions, ensuring their independence and capacity, and expediting the legal process are necessary steps.
3. Complex regulations and bureaucratic red tape: Excessive regulations, bureaucratic procedures, and
discretionary powers provide fertile ground for corruption. Simplifying regulations, streamlining administrative
processes, and implementing e-governance initiatives can help reduce opportunities for corruption.
Encouraging citizen feedback and grievance redressal mechanisms can also curb corrupt practices.
4. Poverty and inequality: Poverty and inequality exacerbate the prevalence of corruption. When basic needs
are unmet and there is a lack of access to essential services, individuals may resort to bribery or other corrupt
practices to navigate through systems. Reducing poverty, ensuring equal access to opportunities, and
implementing social welfare programs effectively can address the root causes of corruption.
5. Political will and leadership: Eradicating corruption requires strong political will and leadership commitment.
Governments need to demonstrate their commitment to combating corruption through policy reforms, anti-
corruption campaigns, and the creation of a culture of integrity. Leading by example and promoting ethical
behaviour among public officials are crucial steps to address corruption at all levels.
6. Public awareness and citizen engagement: Creating awareness about the detrimental effects of corruption
and promoting ethical values among citizens can contribute to eradicating corruption. Encouraging citizen
engagement, empowering whistle-blowers, and strengthening civil society organizations can help monitor
corruption, promote transparency, and hold institutions accountable.
7. International cooperation: Corruption often transcends borders, and international cooperation is essential to
combat it effectively. Collaboration among nations in areas such as information sharing, extradition of corrupt
individuals, and mutual legal assistance can help tackle corruption, especially in cases of cross-border
corruption and money laundering.
8. Education and ethical values: Promoting ethical values and integrity through education and awareness
programs is crucial in building a corruption-free society. Incorporating ethics and anti-corruption education in
school curricula, professional training programs, and public awareness campaigns can help foster a culture of
integrity and ethical conduct.

Combating corruption requires a multi-faceted approach involving legal reforms, institutional strengthening, citizen
participation, and a commitment to ethical values. It requires efforts at both individual and systemic levels to build
a society that values integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Part C_Competitive_Corruption_22/Jan/2021
1. Comment in short most effective and efficient strategy for predicting and controlling corruption activities in
India

The most effective and efficient strategy for predicting and controlling corruption activities in India involves a
multi-pronged approach that addresses both preventive and punitive measures. Here are some key elements of
such a strategy:

Strengthening anti-corruption institutions: Enhance the capacity, independence, and resources of anti-
corruption institutions such as the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and the Central Bureau of Investigation
(CBI). This includes ensuring stringent vetting processes for appointing officials and providing them with
necessary tools and training to investigate and prosecute corruption cases effectively.

1. Transparency and accountability: Promote transparency in public administration by implementing measures

such as mandatory disclosure of public officials' assets and financial transactions, proactive disclosure of
information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, and regular audits of government agencies. Strengthen
accountability mechanisms by establishing clear procedures for reporting corruption, protecting whistle-
blowers, and expediting the legal process.
2. Simplification of regulations and administrative procedures: Streamline bureaucratic processes, reduce
unnecessary regulations, and eliminate discretionary powers to minimize opportunities for corruption.
Implement e-governance initiatives to automate processes and minimize human interface, reducing the scope
for corruption.
3. Encouraging citizen participation and awareness: Foster a culture of citizen engagement and accountability by
promoting civic education, raising awareness about the detrimental effects of corruption, and encouraging
citizens to report corruption through dedicated helplines or online platforms. Establish mechanisms for citizen
feedback, monitoring, and evaluation of public services to ensure transparency and efficiency.
4. Political will and leadership commitment: Demonstrate strong political will and leadership commitment to
combat corruption. Enact and enforce robust anti-corruption laws, promote ethical conduct among public
officials, and hold corrupt individuals accountable irrespective of their position or influence. Emphasize the
importance of integrity in governance and encourage ethical behaviour through example-setting at the highest
levels.
5. International cooperation: Strengthen international cooperation in combating corruption, particularly in cases
of cross-border corruption and money laundering. Collaborate with international organizations, share
information, and best practices, and cooperate in the extradition of corrupt individuals.
6. Technology-enabled solutions: Leverage technology to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
Implement digital platforms for public service delivery, e-procurement systems, and digitized financial
transactions to minimize corruption risks. Utilize data analytics and artificial intelligence to identify patterns of
corruption, predict high-risk areas, and improve detection and investigation capabilities.
7. Promote a culture of ethics and integrity: Embed ethical values and integrity in society through education and
awareness programs. Integrate ethics education in school curricula, professional training programs, and public
awareness campaigns. Encourage private sector organizations to adopt strong ethical practices and adhere to
anti-corruption standards.

It is important to note that eradicating corruption requires a sustained and long-term effort. The strategy should be
dynamic, adaptable, and responsive to emerging challenges. Regular evaluation, feedback mechanisms, and
continuous improvement are essential to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of anti-corruption measures in
India.

Part C_Competitive_Corruption_22/Oct/2021
1. Explain in short, the measures needed, to eradicate corruption and focus more on ethical measures.

To eradicate corruption, a strong emphasis on ethical measures is crucial. Here are key measures needed to
combat corruption with a focus on ethics:

1. Ethical leadership and political will: Promote ethical conduct among leaders and public officials. Emphasize
integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance. Leaders should lead by example, adhering to high
ethical standards and enforcing anti-corruption measures effectively.
2. Strengthening ethical frameworks and laws: Enact and enforce robust anti-corruption laws, including clear
definitions of corrupt practices, severe penalties, and deterrent measures. Implement codes of conduct and
ethics for public officials, ensuring their adherence to ethical standards.
3. Promoting ethical culture and values: Foster a culture of ethics and integrity in society through education,
awareness, and social campaigns. Integrate ethics education at all levels of education, emphasizing values like
honesty, fairness, and responsibility.
4. Transparency and accountability: Enhance transparency in decision-making processes, public procurement,
and financial transactions. Implement mechanisms for citizens to access information, such as the Right to
Information (RTI) Act. Strengthen accountability by establishing effective mechanisms to report corruption and
protect whistle-blowers.
5. Strengthening anti-corruption institutions: Empower and adequately resource anti-corruption institutions to
carry out their mandates effectively. Ensure their independence, integrity, and capacity to investigate and
prosecute corruption cases without fear or favour.
6. Citizen participation and engagement: Promote citizen involvement in monitoring and reporting corruption.
Encourage the active participation of civil society organizations, media, and citizens in holding institutions
accountable. Establish complaint mechanisms and channels for reporting corruption anonymously.
7. Promoting ethics in business and private sector: Encourage businesses to adopt strong ethical practices and
integrity measures. Promote transparency in corporate governance, financial reporting, and anti-bribery
policies. Encourage public-private partnerships to combat corruption collectively.
8. Ethical procurement and contracting: Implement transparent and competitive procurement processes,
reducing opportunities for corruption. Enhance oversight and monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance
with ethical standards in public contracting and procurement.
9. Professional ethics and capacity building: Promote professional ethics across various sectors, including public
administration, law enforcement, and judiciary. Provide training and capacity-building programs to enhance
ethical awareness, integrity, and professionalism among professionals.
10. International cooperation: Collaborate with international organizations and other countries to combat
corruption across borders. Share information, best practices, and strategies to prevent and investigate
corruption and money laundering.

Eradicating corruption requires a comprehensive approach that combines legal, institutional, and ethical measures.
By promoting ethics, transparency, and accountability, society can build a strong foundation for a corruption-free
environment.

Part C_Competitive_Corruption_10/Oct/2019
1. Comment on major factors responsible for corruption

Corruption is a complex issue influenced by various factors. Some of the major factors responsible for corruption
include:

1. Lack of transparency and accountability: When there is a lack of transparency in government processes,
financial transactions, and decision-making, it creates opportunities for corruption. Weak accountability
mechanisms and inadequate enforcement of anti-corruption measures further contribute to corrupt practices.
2. Weak legal and institutional frameworks: Inadequate or ineffective laws, loopholes, and gaps in the legal and
institutional frameworks can be exploited by corrupt individuals. Insufficient capacity and independence of anti-
corruption institutions can hinder the fight against corruption.
3. Bureaucratic red tape and discretionary powers: Complex regulations, lengthy bureaucratic procedures, and
discretionary powers held by public officials create opportunities for corruption. The lack of streamlined
processes and clear guidelines provides space for corruption to thrive.
4. Poverty and inequality: Poverty and inequality contribute to corruption by creating an environment where
individuals may resort to corrupt practices to meet their basic needs or gain unfair advantages. The lack of equal
access to opportunities and resources exacerbates the risk of corruption.
5. Culture of impunity: When corrupt individuals are not held accountable for their actions, it reinforces a culture
of impunity. Weak enforcement, lack of political will, and societal tolerance towards corruption contribute to
this culture, further perpetuating corrupt practices.
6. Lack of ethical values and integrity: A society that lacks strong ethical values and integrity is more prone to
corruption. When individuals prioritize personal gain over the collective welfare and fail to uphold ethical
standards, corruption becomes more prevalent.
7. Political and electoral financing: The influence of money in politics and electoral financing can lead to
corruption. Illicit funding, misuse of public resources for electoral purposes, and the influence of wealthy
individuals and interest groups in politics can undermine the integrity of the political system.
8. Global factors: Corruption can also be influenced by global factors, such as illicit financial flows, transnational
bribery, and money laundering. Cross-border corruption and the presence of international networks can make
combating corruption more challenging.

It is important to address these factors holistically to effectively tackle corruption. Strengthening transparency,
accountability, and ethical values, along with robust legal and institutional frameworks, are essential to curb
corruption and foster a culture of integrity.