Difference between a gift and a bribe given to a government officer

GIFT

A gift is something of value given without the expectation of return. Further, a gift is freely given with no strings attached. On some festival occasions gifts are exchanged ie there is an informal reciprocal agreement between the parties. Gifts are usually given with the motive of appreciation, fondness or love.

BRIBE

A bribe is the same thing given in the hope to influence or benefit something from a authority. A bribe is given with a string attached to dishonestly persuade someone to act in one's favour by a gift of anything such as cash or product. Moreover they are given as a reward for compliance by the Government Authority.

Most of us know about bribery, which amounts to corruption.. So let me give details of provisions made under the CENTRAL CIVIL SERVICES (CONDUCT) RULES, 1964 as regards Gifts. Under Rule 13 of the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964.  

No Government servant shall accept, or permit any member of his family or any other person acting on his behalf to accept, any gift.

EXPLANATION.- The expression "gift" shall include free transport, boarding, lodging or other service or any other pecuniary advantage when provided by any person other than a near relative or personal friend having no official dealings with the Government servant.

Government servant may accept gifts from his near relatives or from his personal friends having no official dealings with him, but he shall make a report to the Government if the value of such gift exceeds limit prescribed by the Government.