Sub Theme 1: Addressing public sector corruption
A sound Anti Corruption policy is one of the most important components of good
governance. The importance of eradication of corruption emanates from the bitter
experiences of developing countries entrapped in the corruption induced vicious cycle of
low growth, less human development followed by even lesser growth. Public sector
which accounts for a major share of the economy in every developing country, naturally
finds primacy in the governance reforms aimed at reducing corruption. The objectives of
the session therefore are to discuss the impact of corruption in the public sector, take
stock of the state response, and identify key areas for effective interventions.
Sub Theme 2: Corruption in the private sector
Traditionally, major focus of the Anti-Corruption efforts in many countries has
been against the Public Servants. Corporate Corruption remained as one of the least
understood and least prevented forms of corruption. Events like the Enron case, Asian
melt down of the 1990s amply demonstrated that unchecked private sector corruption
leads to catastrophic consequences. The objectives of the session are to identify the
prevalent corrupt practices such as Procurement corruption, Trade mis-invoicing, fudging
of accounts, Embezzlement or siphoning of funds, etc. and the impact of such mal
practices on the economic growth.
Sub Theme 3: Access to information as a tool to fight corruption
The Right to Information Act of India, 2005 has been hailed as one of the most
powerful Acts dealing with right to information globally. The objective of the Act is to
promote transparency and accountability within the government. Now, after three years
after the act has come into effect, a time has come to review its implementation and
effectiveness in meeting the intended objectives. Through this session of the seminar, an
attempt will be made to bring together representatives of all the important stake holders
to elicit their views based on their experiences and to identify areas for further
strengthening of the legal and administrative framework.
Sub Theme 4: E-Governance as a tool to enhance transparency
It has widely accepted that natural monopoly, abundant discretion and lack of
accountability breed corruption in the delivery of public services. Across the globe it has
been proved that E-governance solutions mitigate the effects of these factors, leading to
collateral benefit of reduced corruption. India is one of countries to embrace the egovernance practices with full earnest and to make it a major component of the
governance reform agenda. The session will be dedicated to share the good practices,
identify the gaps and to elicit suggestions for further improvement and propagation of
these practices on a wider scale.