The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) organised a seminar on “Vigilance: Strengthening Integrity and Good Governance” on 25 August 2026 at its Head Office in Mumbai. The programme was conducted as part of the ongoing Vigilance Awareness Campaign 2026, being observed from 17 August to 16 November 2026 under the theme “Probity for Prosperity.”
The seminar was graced by Shri Suresh N. Patel, Former Central Vigilance Commissioner, Government of India, as the chief guest and keynote speaker. The programme brought together senior officials and employees from NABARD’s Head Office, Regional Offices, Training Establishments, Subsidiaries and District Development Managers from across the country.
Welcoming the distinguished guest, Shri U Dinesh Shanbhag, Chief Vigilance Officer, NABARD, highlighted Shri Patel’s extensive experience in governance, public administration, banking and vigilance. He also acknowledged his contribution towards strengthening integrity, transparency and accountability across public institutions.
Addressing the gathering, Shri G S Rawat, Deputy Managing Director, NABARD, emphasised that vigilance should serve primarily as a tool for prevention, rather than being limited to detecting irregularities and imposing punitive measures. He encouraged NABARD employees to actively participate in the activities planned during the campaign and contribute to building a stronger culture of probity and good governance.
Shri Rawat also stressed that robust systems and well-defined procedures form the foundation of an effective preventive vigilance framework. Strengthening internal processes, he noted, is essential for promoting accountability and reducing the scope for irregularities.
Delivering the keynote address, Shri Suresh N. Patel shared insights into the role of vigilance in promoting ethical governance, institutional integrity and public trust. Drawing on his experience as the former Central Vigilance Commissioner, he highlighted the significance of vigilance in strengthening organisational systems and ensuring good governance.
Shri Patel also discussed important areas including banking frauds, complaint-handling mechanisms and prudent management of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs). He emphasised the need for strict adherence to established systems and procedures, along with robust appraisal standards, to strengthen institutional integrity and accountability.
The seminar concluded with NABARD reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability and high standards of ethical governance while carrying out its developmental mandate. The initiative underlines the organisation’s focus on preventive vigilance and responsible institutional practices as key pillars of good governance.
