Narendra Modi Addresses G20 Anti-Corruption Meet, Emphasizes Global Cooperation, Transparency & Ethical Governance
Modi cautioned against greed and its hindrance to truth realization, referencing the concept of 'Ma Gridha,' translating to 'let there be no greed.'
Indian Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, virtually addressed the G20 Anti-Corruption Ministerial Meet in Kolkata, where he welcomed attendees to the city of Rabindranath Tagore and emphasized the importance of combating corruption. Highlighting Tagore's writings and ancient Indian wisdom, Modi cautioned against greed and its hindrance to truth realization, referencing the concept of 'Ma Gridha,' translating to 'let there be no greed.'
The Prime Minister underscored that corruption disproportionately affects the poor and marginalized, distorting markets, resource utilization, and diminishing quality of life. Drawing from Kautilya's Arthashastra, Modi stressed the government's duty to maximize welfare by enhancing resources and combatting corruption. India's 'Zero Tolerance' policy against corruption was emphasized, with Modi showcasing technology and e-governance's role in fostering transparency and plugging gaps in welfare schemes.
My remarks at the G20 Anti-Corruption Ministerial Meeting in Kolkata. @g20org https://t.co/dmaS4NwLcM
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 12, 2023
Modi noted the success of direct benefit transfers, citing over 360 billion dollars distributed to millions, saving 33 billion dollars. He highlighted streamlined procedures, exemplifying the impact of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) and the Economic Offenders Act, which has led to recovering assets worth over 1.8 billion dollars. The Prevention of Money Laundering Act's effectiveness in attaching assets worth over 12 billion dollars since 2014 was also acknowledged.
Recalling his past G20 engagements, Modi lauded the progress against fugitive economic offenders and asset recovery, particularly the action-oriented High-Level Principles. He celebrated understanding on informal cooperation between law enforcement agencies, aiming to prevent criminal exploitation of legal gaps across borders. Modi advocated for non-conviction-based confiscations to expedite foreign asset recovery, strengthening joint anti-corruption efforts.
The Prime Minister stressed that collective G20 efforts could significantly combat corruption through international cooperation and robust measures. He also recognized the role of audit institutions in this fight. Modi concluded by urging attendees to promote ethics, integrity, and strong administrative and legal systems, highlighting their role in building a just and sustainable society.
In essence, Prime Minister Modi's address underscored the significance of anti-corruption measures, drawing from historical and cultural wisdom, showcasing India's initiatives, and emphasizing the collaborative role of the G20 in tackling corruption and fostering a more equitable world.
