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Governor Highlights Ancient Roots of Indian Democracy

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, January 8th 2026 at 9:48 GMT by ThePrint

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Chennai, Tamil Nadu - January 8, 2026 - Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi today emphasized the deeply rooted historical presence of democratic principles within Bharat (India), asserting that the nation's commitment to governance by the people extends far beyond recent times. Speaking at the valedictory function of the 75th Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) Training Program in Chennai, Governor Ravi highlighted the existence of sophisticated local governance systems in ancient Bharat, showcasing a continuous thread of participatory rule throughout the country's history.

This statement comes at a crucial time, as discussions around the evolution of Indian democracy and its unique characteristics gain increasing prominence both domestically and internationally. While modern Indian democracy is a post-independence construct, rooted in parliamentary traditions, Governor Ravi's remarks point to a longer lineage of self-governance and civic participation. Historians and political scientists have long noted the presence of sabhas and samitis in ancient and medieval India, which functioned as deliberative bodies at the village and local levels. These institutions, though not directly equivalent to modern democratic systems, demonstrate a tradition of community decision-making and accountability.

Governor Ravi's address wasn't solely a historical reflection; he directly linked this ancient heritage to contemporary governance, stressing the critical role of "public audit and accountability" in fortifying democratic institutions and promoting responsible leadership. This emphasis on transparency and oversight is particularly pertinent given growing global concerns about corruption and the erosion of public trust in government. A robust system of checks and balances, where public finances are meticulously scrutinized, is seen as essential for maintaining the integrity of any democracy. Without it, the risk of mismanagement, inefficiency, and ultimately, the undermining of public faith in the system, significantly increases.

Further expanding on the theme of accountability, Governor Ravi specifically addressed the critical need for a modernized audit system within the context of national defence. He asserted that the rapidly evolving nature of warfare necessitates a "robust and modern audit system to oversee defence expenditure." This statement reflects a growing awareness of the escalating costs of military technology and the complex financial logistics involved in maintaining a modern armed force.

The Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS), the organization to whom Governor Ravi was addressing, plays a vital role in this area. As the financial management arm of the Ministry of Defence, IDAS officers are responsible for ensuring the effective and efficient allocation of resources within the defence budget. However, the demands placed on them are constantly increasing. Modern warfare is no longer solely about manpower and traditional weaponry; it's increasingly reliant on sophisticated technologies like artificial intelligence, cyber warfare capabilities, and advanced surveillance systems. These technologies are expensive to develop, procure, and maintain, demanding a higher level of financial expertise and scrutiny.

Experts in defence finance suggest that the traditional audit methods are often inadequate to address the complexities of modern defence procurement. There's a need for real-time data analytics, sophisticated risk assessment models, and increased automation to detect and prevent potential fraud or inefficiencies. The implementation of blockchain technology, for example, is being explored as a means to enhance transparency and traceability in defence contracts.

The call for a modernized audit system also aligns with broader governmental initiatives aimed at promoting digitalization and financial inclusion. The 'Digital India' program, for example, has created a framework for greater transparency and accountability across various government departments. Applying these principles to defence finance could significantly improve efficiency and reduce the risk of corruption.

Ultimately, Governor Ravi's address underscores a crucial point: a thriving democracy is not merely about holding elections, but about cultivating a culture of transparency, accountability, and responsible governance. This requires not only strong institutions but also a dedicated cadre of professionals - like the officers of the IDAS - equipped with the skills and tools to navigate the complexities of the 21st-century landscape. Bharat's enduring democratic traditions, combined with a commitment to modernization and financial oversight, are essential to ensuring its continued progress and security.