CUKashmir VC kick-starts vigilance awareness week

• Integrity is cornerstone of prosperous nation: Prof. A Ravinder Nath

GANDERBAL: Central University of Kashmir(CUKashmir) Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath, Monday said that integrity is the cornerstone of a prosperous nation, particularly within the domain of public service. “The concept of integrity transcends mere honesty; it encompasses transparency, accountability, and a commitment to ethical decision-making,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath said, which kick-starting the Vigilance Awareness Week-2024, on the theme “Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity,” organised by the Office of the Chief Vigilance officer in collaboration with the University Legal Cell.

Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, Dean School of Languages, Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, Principal PTS, Manigam, Mr. Zubair Ahmad Khan, former IGP, Kashmir and Member, JKPSC, Mr. Syed Ahfadul Mujtaba, Sr. Prosecuting Officer, PTS, Ganderbal, Mr. Farooq Ahmad Mir, Advocate J&K High Court, Mr. Umar Rashid Wani, faculty members, administrative officials, scholars and students were present on the occasion.

CUKashmir Vice Chancellor, said that integrity in governance is especially significant because public officials are custodians of the public good. “They manage resources, make policy decisions, and have the power to impact citizens’ lives directly. Therefore, when officials act with integrity, they reinforce public confidence and demonstrate a commitment to the social contract between government and citizens. On the other hand, a lack of integrity erodes public trust, undermines authority, and breeds resentment among citizens, weakening the societal fabric.”

In his address, Mr. Syed Ahfadul Mujtaba, said that for a country to thrive, its officials—who are entrusted with power and responsibility—must exhibit the highest standards of integrity. “Without integrity in public office, trust erodes, governance weakens, and the foundation of a nation's prosperity is compromised,” he added. He further said that International organizations, such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, assess a nation’s governance before offering any financial assistance.

In his speech, Mr. Zubair Ahmad Khan, said, the programmes like these promote a culture of integrity as they focus on the importance of ethical decision-making, the responsibilities of public office, and the impact of integrity on governance and society. “Integrating ethics into training for public officials can foster a mindset that prioritizes integrity from the outset.”

Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, said that upholding integrity requires courage, especially in environments where corruption may be normalized, but officials who stand by their ethical values contribute significantly to national prosperity. “Media plays a crucial role in educating the public about their rights and the responsibilities of public officials. When citizens are informed and active, they can hold their leaders accountable and demand transparency.”

Addressing the participants, Dean School of Languages, Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, highlighted the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in safeguarding institutional integrity. She said transparency, accountability, and ethical values are cornerstones for national growth and institutional integrity. In their speech, Mr. Farooq Ahmad Mir, and Mr. Umar Rashid Wani, said, the judiciary and independent anti-corruption agencies play a pivotal role in enforcing integrity among public officials. “Judiciary and independent bodies are essential for holding officials accountable.”

The programme concluded with a pledge, wherein the participants committed to adhering to ethical practices, promoting transparency, and standing against corruption in every form. CUKashmir Legal Advisor, Dr. Mudasir Bhat conducted the programme proceedings and Asst Prof. Deptt of Kashmiri, Dr. Samreena Geelani, proposed the vote of thanks.