HYDERABAD: Stating that corruption remains a major obstacle to sustainable and inclusive development, Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) Secretary Rachna Shah on Tuesday said it diverts scarce public resources away from hospitals, schools and critical infrastructure, and undermines public trust.
Addressing the gathering while presiding over the two-day second BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) meeting, which commenced in Hyderabad, she underlined that no country is immune to the challenge of corruption and that no country can overcome it alone.
Highlighting the challenge posed by fugitive economic offenders, Rachna Shah stressed the need to ensure that no jurisdiction becomes a sanctuary for those who profit from crime.
She called for stronger cooperation to trace fugitive offenders, support extradition, recover stolen assets and close loopholes enabling the cross-border movement of offenders and illicit funds.
Shah said digital identity, digital payments and transparent procurement can reduce leakages and curb corruption.