Chandigarh, October 27, 2026: Shri Hiriadka Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, U.T. Chandigarh, administered the Integrity Pledge to senior officers and officials of the Chandigarh Administration at the Chandigarh Secretariat, Sector 9, as part of Vigilance Awareness Week, being observed from October 26 to November 1, 2026.

Vigilance Awareness Week is observed annually under the aegis of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) to promote integrity, transparency, accountability and ethical practices in public administration. On the occasion, officers and staff of the Chandigarh Administration pledged to uphold the highest standards of honesty and integrity and remain committed to the fight against corruption.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Secretary emphasised that Vigilance Awareness Week should not be treated merely as an annual ritual or a formality limited to taking pledges and displaying banners. He stated that the true essence of vigilance lies in bringing about a sincere change in one’s mindset, conduct and approach towards professional responsibilities. When thoughts are guided by honesty, fairness and integrity, positive changes naturally reflect in one’s words and actions. He reminded officers and officials that holding public office is both a privilege and a responsibility, as countless individuals aspire to serve in government positions. Stressing that people are supreme in a democracy, he urged every public servant to regularly introspect whether they are discharging their duties sincerely, fairly and in the larger public interest. He further observed that corruption should not be viewed solely in monetary terms, as failure to fulfil one’s responsibilities honestly and diligently, thereby depriving citizens of their rightful benefits and services, is also a form of corruption.

Drawing upon his 31 years of administrative experience, the Chief Secretary expressed concern over unnecessary movement of files, delays in decision-making and prolonged pendency of matters that often fail to provide meaningful relief to citizens. He urged officers and officials across all departments to adopt a proactive, transparent and citizen-centric approach, ensuring that decisions are taken promptly, objectively and strictly on merit, with honesty and integrity. He also emphasised the importance of continuous learning, skill enhancement and professional development to improve efficiency and the quality of public service delivery. He stressed that true vigilance and good governance are reflected not merely in following procedures but in ensuring fair, timely and effective resolution of citizens’ concerns. He called upon all officials to translate the spirit of the Integrity Pledge into their everyday conduct and decision-making so that the benefits of good governance reach every citizen.

The Chandigarh Administration also encouraged citizens to participate in Vigilance Awareness Week by taking the Integrity Pledge through the official website of the Central Vigilance Commission at www.cvc.gov.in.