Model Answer

Introduction

Kautilya, the ancient Indian philosopher, famously stated, “Just as it is impossible not to taste honey or poison that one may find at the tip of one’s tongue, so it is impossible for a government servant not to eat up, at least, a bit of the king’s revenue.” This quote underscores his belief that corruption is an inherent issue within public service, emphasizing the need for robust checks and balances to prevent the misuse of public resources.

Body

Kautilya was acutely aware of the detrimental effects of corruption on the state and society. He argued that corruption leads to the misuse of government resources, administrative inefficiency, and significant hindrances to national development.

Misuse of Government Funds

Kautilya identified various forms of corruption, including embezzlement, nepotism, bribery, and favoritism. He contended that such practices deplete the government treasury, which in turn undermines the provision of essential services. A contemporary example is the 2G spectrum scam in India, where government officials misallocated telecom licenses, resulting in extensive financial losses and stunted sectoral growth (Source: The Hindu, 2011).

Administrative Inefficiency

Corruption also breeds administrative inefficiency. When officials prioritize personal gain over public welfare, it leads to subpar service delivery and slow decision-making. For instance, in Nigeria, rampant corruption in the oil sector has resulted in ineffective policy implementation and deteriorating public services, eroding trust in government (Source: Transparency International, 2020).

Obstruction of National Development

Kautilya noted that corruption obstructs national development by impeding key projects. In Bangladesh, corruption in the construction sector has led to poor-quality infrastructure, project delays, and cost overruns, significantly hampering economic growth and public satisfaction (Source: World Bank, 2016).

Conclusion

Kautilya’s insights into corruption remain pertinent today, highlighting the necessity of ethical governance. His recommendations for promoting transparency, accountability, and strong institutional frameworks are crucial for combating corruption. By advocating for strict laws, effective enforcement, and ethical standards in public service, Kautilya’s principles can guide contemporary efforts to enhance governance and foster national development.