Who publishes it
The CPI is published annually by Transparency International.
What it measures
The CPI scores countries on a 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean) scale, based on expert assessments and business surveys of public-sector corruption. It measures perceptions, not actual corruption directly. Higher scores indicate cleaner public institutions.
India and significance
India typically scores in the middle range, reflecting persistent governance challenges. The CPI links to themes of transparency, accountability, ease of doing business and institutional trust — addressed in India through the RTI, Lokpal, e-governance and anti-corruption laws.
UPSC angle
Know CPI = Transparency International; 0 (corrupt)–100 (clean) scale; measures perceived public-sector corruption (not actual); India in the mid-range. Link to RTI/Lokpal/e-governance.
Frequently asked questions
Who publishes the Corruption Perceptions Index?
Transparency International.
How is the CPI scored?
On a scale of 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean), based on expert and business surveys.
What does the CPI measure?
The perceived level of public-sector corruption — perceptions rather than actual corruption.
How does India fare on the CPI?
India generally scores in the middle range, reflecting ongoing governance challenges.