Right to Information Act 2005 mandates timely response to citizen requests for government information. It helps citizens get clarity and transparency on various issues from the government. It is an initiative taken by the Department of Personnel and Training, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions to provide an RTI Portal Gateway to the citizens for quick search of information on the details of first Appellate Authorities, PIOs, etc. The public Information Officer has to supply the information within 30 days otherwise a heavy monetary penalty will be imposed upon him. Which government organizations are required to give information under RTI Act? -All Government Agencies under state and central government come under the RTI Act e.g. Municipal Corporation, Public Sector Companies, Government Department, Ministry of State & Centre, Judiciary, Government Owned Companies, Govt. Universities, Govt. Schools, Public works department, Road authorities, EPFO, ESIC (Employee State Insurance Corporation). Which govt. organizations are exempted from RTI? 1) Department concerning National Security is exempted from RTI e.g. RAW, B.S.F., CRPF, CISF, Intelligence Bureau, NSG, etc. 2) Information that harms National Security, Sovereignty of Nation, Economy of Nation, Society of Nation 3) Court Stay order 4) Trade Secrets of Company 5) Information related to intellectual property 6) Foreign Government information 7) Information that harms the person 8) Personal information that is not in Public Interest How to use RTI to solve a problem? 1) Pending Income Tax Return 2) Delayed PF Withdrawal 3) Delayed PF Transfer 4) Delayed Passport 5) Delayed Aadhar Card 6) Delayed IRCTC refund 7) Copies of answer sheets 8) Property documents 9) Status of FIR or complaint copy 10) Delay in scholarship and more 11) Enquiry on Road Development 12) Enquiry on any Govt. Project 13) Fund management of MP/MLA 14) Govt. Schemes and Project details
