From Our Correspondent
Thiruvananthapuram: In a significant initiative aimed at eradicating corruption from Kerala, Home and Vigilance Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Wednesday launched “Project Zero,” a comprehensive programme by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB). The primary objective of the project is to transform Kerala into a fully corruption-free state through proactive prevention and active public participation.
Speaking to the media at the Vigilance headquarters here, Chennithala said the government is committed to ensuring that public services are delivered to citizens in a fair and time-bound manner. “Corruption is a crime that cannot be encouraged. Project Zero has been designed to prevent the very conditions that lead to corruption, especially in the digital era, rather than taking action only after it occurs,” he said.
The Minister emphasised the crucial role of ordinary citizens in the success of the project. He urged people to come forward boldly with information about corrupt practices. “All information received will be treated with utmost confidentiality, and strict action will be taken against those involved in corruption,” Chennithala assured.
He added that the project marks a shift from a reactive to a preventive approach in tackling corruption. The initiative will leverage modern technology to strengthen the vigilance machinery and make it more effective in addressing emerging forms of corruption.
During a meeting with Vigilance officers, several key administrative matters were discussed, including the draft revision of the Vigilance Manual, proposed amendments to the Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act, and issues related to appointment authority permissions. Steps to further empower the vigilance system using technology and addressing the challenges faced by officers were also reviewed.
The event, chaired by Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau Director Manoj Abraham, also honoured retiring officials under the title “Snehadaravu”. A. Hemachandran, Police Advisor to the Home Minister, and Vigilance IG (in-charge) Thomson Jose expressed gratitude on the occasion.
Chennithala said the government views corruption as a major obstacle to development and is determined to create a transparent and accountable system of governance. Project Zero is expected to serve as a game-changer in Kerala’s fight against corruption by combining institutional reforms, technological intervention, and citizen involvement.
The launch of Project Zero has drawn attention as the state government seeks to rebuild public trust in administration following several high-profile corruption cases in recent years.
