"There are 10 to 15 per cent government employees who are corrupt. They vitiate the atmosphere in the state. So stern action needs be taken against them," he said.

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani today said strong action needs to be taken against around 15 per cent "corrupt" employees in the state, "who are vitiating the atmosphere".

"There are 10 to 15 per cent government employees who are corrupt. They vitiate the atmosphere in the state. So stern action needs be taken against them," he said.

"Cracking down on such employees would set a good example andstrengthen the hands of the remaining 85 per cent employees, who are honest," he said.

Rupani was addressing the valedictory function of the Chintan Shibir organised here by the state government.

Calling for a change in mentality, the CM said more power needs to be given to lower-rung officials.

"Decentralisation of power is necessary as power corrupts and absolute power corrupt absolutely," he said.

"Our aim is to make Gujarat free from riots, unemployment, slums, poverty, malnutrition, child labour and pollution. The government is taking steps for the welfare of poor people in the state," Rupani said.(PTI).