What is Corruption?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
Bribery: Offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting any item of value to influence the actions of an official or other person in charge of a public or legal duty.
- 2.
Embezzlement: Theft or misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to one's care.
- 3.
Extortion: Obtaining something through force, threats, or abuse of power.
- 4.
Nepotism: Favoritism shown to relatives or close friends by those in power.
- 5.
Cronyism: Favoritism shown to close friends or associates, often without regard for their qualifications.
- 6.
Conflict of Interest: A situation in which a person's personal interests could unduly influence their professional actions.
- 7.
Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index (CPI) measures perceived levels of public sector corruption.
- 8.
Causes include weak governance, lack of accountability, low salaries, and societal norms.
- 9.
Consequences include economic inefficiency, social inequality, and erosion of public trust.
- 10.
Combating corruption requires strong institutions, independent judiciary, whistleblower protection, and public awareness.
Visual Insights
Understanding Corruption
Mind map illustrating the various aspects and impacts of corruption.
Corruption
- ●Causes
- ●Impacts
- ●Legal Framework
- ●Preventive Measures
Evolution of Anti-Corruption Measures in India
Timeline showing the evolution of anti-corruption laws and institutions in India.
India has a long history of combating corruption, with various laws and institutions established over time to address the issue.
- 1860Indian Penal Code (IPC) includes sections on bribery and corruption.
- 1941Special Police Establishment (SPE) created to investigate bribery during WWII.
- 1964Santhanam Committee Report highlights widespread corruption.
- 1988Prevention of Corruption Act enacted.
- 1997Vineet Narain case emphasizes CBI autonomy.
- 2005Right to Information (RTI) Act enacted.
- 2013Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act enacted.
- 2014Whistle Blowers Protection Act enacted.
- 2018Amendment to Prevention of Corruption Act criminalizes bribe-giving.
- 2026Ongoing efforts to strengthen anti-corruption measures.
Recent Developments
5 developmentsIncreased focus on digital governance and e-procurement to reduce corruption opportunities.
Amendments to the Prevention of Corruption Act to criminalize bribery by private sector entities.
Appointment of Lokpal (anti-corruption ombudsman) at the national level.
Use of technology and data analytics to detect and prevent corruption.
Ongoing debates on the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures and the need for systemic reforms.
This Concept in News
2 topicsPriyanka Gandhi releases 'chargesheet' against Assam government, alleging corruption
20 Feb 2026This news highlights the pervasive nature of corruption and its potential impact on governance and development. The allegations against the Assam government demonstrate how corruption can manifest in various forms, including financial irregularities, abuse of power, and disregard for the rights of indigenous communities. The news event applies the concept of corruption in practice by providing specific examples of alleged wrongdoing. It reveals the importance of transparency and accountability in government and the need for effective mechanisms to investigate and prosecute corruption cases. The implications of this news for the concept's future include increased public scrutiny of government actions and greater demand for anti-corruption measures. Understanding the concept of corruption is crucial for properly analyzing and answering questions about this news because it provides a framework for understanding the allegations, assessing their potential impact, and evaluating the government's response.
Lalu Prasad, Rabri Devi Face Charges in Land-for-Jobs Case
17 Feb 2026This news highlights the aspect of corruption involving quid pro quo something for something, where public office is traded for personal benefits. The land-for-jobs case demonstrates how corruption can manifest in the form of nepotism and favoritism, undermining meritocracy and equal opportunity. This event challenges the principle of fair and transparent recruitment processes. It reveals the persistent problem of corruption in public service, even at high levels. The implications of this news are that it reinforces the need for stronger anti-corruption measures, including stricter enforcement of laws and greater accountability of public officials. Understanding the concept of corruption is crucial for analyzing this news because it allows us to recognize the specific type of corruption involved, its potential impact on society, and the importance of holding those responsible accountable.
