Understanding the Central Vigilance Commission's Origin

The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is a crucial statutory body in India, primarily responsible for addressing corruption in Central Government offices. Understanding its origins helps in appreciating its role and importance in the Indian administrative system.

Establishment of the Central Vigilance Commission

The establishment of the Central Vigilance Commission was a significant step towards curbing corruption in public administration. This body was set up based on the recommendations of a specific committee that studied the problem of corruption and suggested measures to tackle it effectively.

Let's examine the committees mentioned in the options:

• Santhanam Committee: This Committee on Prevention of Corruption was constituted in 1962 under the chairmanship of Shri K. Santhanam. Its mandate was to review the existing laws and rules for maintaining integrity in public services and to suggest measures to improve them. A key recommendation of this committee was the establishment of a Central Vigilance Commission to oversee vigilance administration.
• Dinesh Goswami Committee: This committee was related to electoral reforms. It was constituted in 1990.
• Tarkunde Committee: This committee, headed by V.M. Tarkunde, also focused on electoral reforms, particularly in the context of the 1970s.
• Narasimham Committee: There were two Narasimham Committees (1991 and 1998), both focused on reforms in the financial sector and banking system in India.

Connecting the Committee to the CVC

Based on the findings and recommendations of the Santhanam Committee, the Government of India established the Central Vigilance Commission through an executive resolution on February 11, 1964. Initially, the CVC did not have statutory status. However, the Parliament enacted the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003, giving it a statutory basis and making it an independent body.

Therefore, the Central Vigilance Commission was established on the recommendation of the Santhanam Committee.

Revision Table: Central Vigilance Commission

Additional Information: Important Committees in India

Various committees have been formed throughout India's history to study specific issues and recommend policy changes or institutional reforms. Understanding the mandates of prominent committees is important for general knowledge and exam preparation. Some examples include:

• Committees on Electoral Reforms (e.g., Tarkunde, Dinesh Goswami, Indrajit Gupta).
• Committees on Financial Sector Reforms (e.g., Narasimham).
• Committees on Police Reforms (e.g., National Police Commission, Padmanabhaiah Committee).
• Committees on Administrative Reforms (e.g., ARC - Administrative Reforms Commission).

The Santhanam Committee holds a significant place for its direct contribution to the anti-corruption framework through the recommendation leading to the Central Vigilance Commission.