The CIC has conducted comprehensive training programs for nodal officers, central public information officers (CPIO), and first appellate officers. These initiatives have bolstered officers’ skills in drafting responses and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.
The Central Information Commission (CIC) has achieved nearly 100 per cent disposal of Right to Information (RTI) appeals. This milestone was highlighted during a recent high-level review chaired by union minister of state, Dr. Jitendra Singh, where the minister applauded the commission’s proactive role in governance – a significant stride towards transparency and citizen empowerment.
Underlining the government’s commitment to transparency, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted the substantial reduction in RTI appeals pendency over the years. From 35,718 appeals in 2019-20, the number has steadily declined to 22,666 appeals in 2024-25. This trend reflects the commission’s efficiency in addressing citizen queries promptly and effectively, he said.
“The pendency of RTI appeals is substantially reducing from 35718 appeals in 2019-20 to 29213 appeals in 2021-22, further reducing to 23087 appeals in 2023-24 and 22666 appeals in 2024-25 which is remarkable,” said Singh.
Singh reiterated prime minister Narendra Modi’s vision of fostering transparency, accountability and good governance across governmental functions. He commended the CIC’s efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring their uninterrupted service and the establishment of a branch in Jammu and Kashmir, significantly enhancing accessibility for residents.
Empowering Information Officers
Highlighting the commission’s proactive approach, chief information commissioner Heeralal Samariya emphasized the ongoing efforts in capacity building. The CIC has conducted comprehensive training programs for nodal officers, central public information officers (CPIO), and first appellate officers. These initiatives have bolstered officers’ skills in drafting responses and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements, he said.
He also informed the minister about the steady progress and said the second appeals reaching to the CIC nearly 17,000 appeals are disposed of ever year.
Heeralal Samariya expressed gratitude to the minister for his efforts in supporting the commission. He also highlighted that the CIC got its independent office complex after 2014 when the new government came (prior to this, the CIC was operated from rented premises).
Looking ahead, Jitendra Singh urged for continued momentum in disposing of appeals and addressing citizen queries with even greater efficiency. He assured the commission of the prime minister’s unwavering support towards citizen-centric governance and reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency.
