The 16th Annual Convention of the Central Information Commission was inaugurated at Bharat Mandapam here today by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh.
Citing several instances of the Modi Govt's transparent working, the Minister said, "Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi's Mantra of Minimum Government Maximum Governance essentially implies furtherance of transparency".
The theme of the Convention of the Central Information Commission was “Contribution of RTI in journey towards Viksit Bharat”. Dr. Jitendra Singh, while addressing the Convention, emphasized the pivotal role of the Right to Information (RTI) Act in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.
The event brought together under one roof Chief Information Commissioners, State Information Commissioners, senior government officials, and representatives of civil society. Highlighting the significance of the RTI Act, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated, "The RTI Act has empowered citizens by providing them with a robust mechanism to access information, bridging the gap between government and the people.
It serves as a cornerstone in the fight against corruption and in fostering a citizen-centric governance model." The Minister praised the Central and State Information Commissions for their innovative use of technology, particularly during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
"The Central Information Commission’s adoption of e-initiatives, including e-filing, e-hearings, and digitization of records, has set new benchmarks for efficiency and transparency," he noted. Union Minister further stressed upon utilising technology in various domains of governance.
He also talked about the SVAMITVA model, which helps in eroding the physical interface with authorities. The Union Minister also talked about imparting innovation in the Governance. Talking about the example of Swachata campaigns, the Minister mentioned how disposal of junks led to the monetary earning for the government.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also lauded the achievements in the realm of proactive disclosure. Total of 1302 Public Authorities have submitted their transparency audit reports for the year 2023-24. He urged all public authorities to enhance their proactive disclosure practices, underscoring the importance of Section 4 of the RTI Act in broadening the transparency regime.
Union Minister, in this series stressed upon the importance of disposal of cases swiftly and thus, to the satisfaction of citizenry. Expressing his appreciation for the leadership of Chief Information Commissioner Shri Heeralal Samariya and his colleagues, Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the RTI mechanism.
"Transparency and accountability are essential for building trust in governance. We are dedicated to making the RTI process more responsive and citizen-friendly to reinforce the democratic fabric of the nation," he concluded.
The Annual Convention served as a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on enhancing the implementation of the RTI Act and ensuring greater inclusiveness and citizen participation in governance.
Central Chief Information Commissioner, Central Information Commissioners & Information Commissioners of State Information Commissions, officials of the Central Government, including Public Information Officers and First Appellate Authorities from Public Authorities, representatives of Media and Civil Society Organizations and other stakeholders participated in the Convention.