Part of: National Current Affairs · See also: UPSC syllabus · UKPSC syllabus
The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is observing Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 from 26 October to 1 November. This year, the theme is “Probity for Prosperity” (Satyanishtha se Samriddhi). Notably, the week began at 11:00 am on 26 October with the Integrity Pledge. Moreover, public servants in ministries, PSUs and banks took the pledge. So, the week puts integrity at the heart of governance.
Integrity Pledge Opens the Week
The CVC announced the theme through Circular No. 05/09/26, dated 18 September 2026. Also, the Commission urged employees and their families to take the e-pledge online. For example, Union Health Minister JP Nadda administered the pledge at Kartavya Bhawan-1, New Delhi.
Sardar Patel Link and the Pledge
Every year, the CVC observes the week that includes Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary on 31 October. Meanwhile, the pledge asks officials to uphold the rule of law and report corruption. Also, it says government, citizens and the private sector share the duty to fight corruption.
Three-Month Preventive Vigilance Campaign
Before the week, the CVC began a preventive vigilance campaign (17 August–16 November 2026). Its focus areas include disposal of pending complaints and cases. In addition, it covers capacity building, digital initiatives and contract management. Similarly, “Awareness Gram Sabhas” will reach rural and semi-urban areas.
About the Central Vigilance Commission
The Government set up the CVC by a resolution on 11 February 1964. Notably, it followed the advice of the Committee on Prevention of Corruption, headed by K. Santhanam. Later, Parliament gave the CVC statutory status through the CVC Act, 2003. Today, it has a Central Vigilance Commissioner and up to two Vigilance Commissioners. The President appoints them on a panel’s advice. This panel has the Prime Minister, the Home Minister and the Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition. Each serves four years or until age 65, whichever is earlier. Currently, A. S. Rajeev has served as acting Central Vigilance Commissioner since 3 August 2026.
Vigilance Awareness Week 2026: Key Facts for Revision
- Dates: 26 October to 1 November 2026
- Theme: Probity for Prosperity
- Organiser: Central Vigilance Commission
- CVC set up: 11 February 1964, on the Santhanam Committee’s advice
- Statutory status: CVC Act, 2003
- Acting CVC: A. S. Rajeev (since 3 August 2026)
Why Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, the CVC is a favourite topic in Polity and Ethics papers. So, remember the 2026 theme, the 1964 origin and the 2003 Act. Also, link the CVC with the Lokpal and Lokayuktas. For official updates, also visit the Central Vigilance Commission. Next, for a related story, read about the search committee formed for the appointment of Lokayukta.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.