Steps to Prevent Corruption in Society

**1. Strengthening Legal Framework:

• Enhanced Legislation: Implement and enforce robust anti-corruption laws. Strengthen institutions like the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to investigate and prosecute corruption. The Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018 introduced significant changes to address loopholes in anti-corruption laws.

**2. Promoting Transparency:

• Open Data and Reporting: Ensure transparency in government transactions and decision-making processes. Implement systems like RTI (Right to Information) that allow citizens to access information about public affairs. For example, RTI applications have exposed several corruption cases in India, including irregularities in COVID-19 relief distribution.

**3. Encouraging Whistleblowers:

• Protection and Incentives: Provide protection and incentives for whistleblowers who expose corrupt practices. The Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014 aims to protect whistleblowers from retaliation and encourages reporting of corruption.

**4. Promoting Ethical Standards:

• Education and Training: Incorporate ethics and anti-corruption education into school and college curricula. Conduct regular training for public officials on ethical conduct. For instance, India’s National Anti-Corruption Strategy (2019) includes components for public education and awareness.

**5. Leveraging Technology:

• Digital Platforms: Utilize technology to minimize human intervention and reduce opportunities for corruption. Implement digital platforms for services like income tax filing and public procurement to ensure transparency and reduce bureaucratic delays.

**6. Strengthening Institutional Integrity:

• Accountability Mechanisms: Establish independent bodies to monitor and audit public institutions. For example, the ** Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)** plays a crucial role in auditing government spending and promoting accountability.

By taking these steps, society can create a more transparent, accountable, and ethical environment that effectively combats corruption and fosters trust in public institutions.