Context
Corruption Perceptions Index 2025 shows corruption is rising globally; India’s score (39/100, rank 91) has remained almost unchanged for a decade → economic growth not matched by governance quality.
India’s position
• Stagnant score (38–41 for years) → remains in lower half globally → behind many comparable economies
Why it matters
• Corruption = economic loss → reduces investment + increases cost of doing business + lowers productivity → global loss ~5% of GDP, India ~0.5–1.5% of GDP
Core problem
• Too many laws/compliances → high discretion with officials → scope for rent-seeking → businesses focus on managing rules instead of growth
What is improving
• Digital systems reducing corruption → Direct Benefit Transfer (less leakage) + digital payments (tracking) + Goods and Services Tax (formalisation) + e-procurement (less human interference)
Core message
• Corruption is not just ethical issue, it is a direct economic constraint + governance weakness
Way forward
• Simplify regulations + increase transparency and accountability + strengthen institutions → continuous reforms needed
