New Delhi, July 03: Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, and Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, chaired a meeting on Wednesday to review the progress in handling Right to Information (RTI) appeals.
Dr Singh said there has been a significant reduction in the pendency of RTI appeals, with numbers decreasing from 35,718 appeals in 2019-20 to 22,666 appeals in 2024-25. He commended the proactive role of the Information Commission in achieving this reduction and emphasized the importance of maintaining this momentum.
The minister praised the Commission’s efforts and leadership in improving transparency and ease of information access for citizens. He emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance. Dr Singh acknowledged the exemplary work of the Central Information Commission (CIC) during the COVID-19 pandemic and noted the benefits of having a CIC branch in Jammu & Kashmir.
Chief Information Commissioner Heeralal Samariya expressed gratitude for the support received from the minister. He highlighted the CIC’s progress since receiving an independent office complex post-2014, compared to its previous rented accommodation.
“Nearly 17,000 second appeals are resolved annually and mentioned a recent training program for nodal officers, Central Public Information Officers (CPIOs), and 1st Appellate Officers,” Samariya said. The training was well-received, focusing on effective information provision and compliance with relevant rules and acts.
