DOPT AR 0607 English Print.pmd - Jeywin

THE RIGHT TO INFORMATION ACT, 2005
designate the first appellate authorities alongwith the Public Information Officers
and publish their particulars; comply with the provisions regarding suo-motu
disclosure; create a central point within the public authority to receive applications
for information and appeals etc. The Government has also published Guides for
the Information Seekers, the Central Public Information Officers, First Appellate
Authorities and the Public Authorities. A website on RTI was also launched on 11
August, 2008 www.rti.gov.in containing valuable information on the Act. It contains
circulars, notifications and Guides on RTI, search facility for locating CPIOs and
Appellate Authorities in Central Government. It is also lined to other RTI related
sites.
12.13 The Government through an independent organisation has conducted a study to
so as to understand the issues and constraints related to the implementation of the
RTI Act. Taking a cue from some of the early findings of the study, the Government
has launched a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for “Strengthening, Capacity Building
and Awareness Generation for the Effective Implementation of the RTI Act” during
2008-10 at the cost of Rs. 26.68 crores. The scheme aims at strengthening the
State Information Commissions, training various stakeholders, creating awareness
on RTI through media and intervention in educational medium.
12.14 The Central Information Commission was strengthened during the year by way of
appointment of four new Commissioners. After the retirement of two
Commissioners, the total number of Information Commissioners including the Chief
Information Commissioner is now 7. Some additional posts were also created for
the Commission.
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