THE PRIME NATIONAL DUTY

The Transparency International (T.I) which is a non-governmental organization involved in fighting corruption has reported that India has improved its position in the comity of nations in terms of integrity as it is ranked 72 among 180 countries in the corruption index in 2008. It was at the 70th position among 163 countries in 2007.

Accordingly, India's integrity index has marginally improved to 3.5 in 2007 from 3.3 a year ago on a scale of 10 points. India's rank at 72 in corruption index is also shared by China, Mexico, Morocco and Peru. Pakistan is way down at 138th position. Denmark, Finland and New Zealand are the least corrupt countries, which jointly top the list with integrity index of 9.4 points each.

The good news from the above stats is that India’s position in the list has improved but its time to realize the reason, for us being part of the list? It’s definitely “We the people” who are to be blamed. The “weed” (corruption) was watered and protected well from the vigilant eyes and now it has spread its branches in every possible direction supported by strong and deep roots. Extending hands under the table has become an inherent practice for any work to be forwarded or done. This is diplomatically termed as “other formalities”. We are ready to bribe until it is within our pre- planned estimates and when it goes beyond, voices are raised and credibility of country is debated. It’s an act for which every person who has bribed in his lifetime should feel ashamed and repent.

The country is personified not only by its history or natural resources but also by its people, their conduct and their societal commitment.

The prime national duty of all of us at this moment is to extend our hands to wipe away the dust covering our exuberant legacy and undiminished glory.

COME; TOGETHER LET US BE THE CHANGE.