Description

Right to Information Act: Awareness and Application

Empower Yourself with the Knowledge to Access Information and Promote Transparency

 

The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 is a landmark legislation that empowers citizens of India to seek information from public authorities, promoting transparency, accountability, and participatory democracy. This comprehensive course is your definitive guide to understanding the provisions, procedures, and practical application of the RTI Act. By focusing on the rights of information seekers, obligations of public authorities, and the appellate mechanism, you will gain the knowledge to effectively file RTI applications, understand your entitlements, and contribute to a culture of openness and good governance.

 

What You Will Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Understand the Genesis and Objectives of the RTI Act, 2005, including its constitutional basis and role in promoting transparency and combating corruption.

  • Identify Your Rights as an information seeker under the Act, including the right to access, inspect records, take notes/copies, and obtain information in electronic format.

  • Recognize the Obligations of Public Authorities including proactive disclosure (Section 4), appointment of Public Information Officers (PIOs), and maintenance of records.

  • File a Valid RTI Application by understanding the prescribed format, applicable fees, time limits, and the correct authority to address.

  • Navigate the Exemption Framework (Section 8 & 9) to understand which information can be legitimately withheld and the principles of severability.

  • Utilize the Appellate Mechanism effectively, including first appeal (to the First Appellate Authority) and second appeal (to the Central/State Information Commission).

  • Apply the Act Practically through case studies, sample application drafting, and understanding common pitfalls and best practices.

 

Course Curriculum

The course is structured into digestible modules, designed for optimal learning flow:

  • Module 1: Introduction to RTI Act, 2005: Background, Objectives, and Key Definitions

  • Module 2: Rights of Citizens and Obligations of Public Authorities (Including Section 4 Proactive Disclosures)

  • Module 3: The RTI Application Process: Format, Fees, Timelines, and Submission to the Correct Authority

  • Module 4: Exemptions from Disclosure (Section 8 & 9) and the Principle of Severability

  • Module 5: Appeals, Complaints, and Role of Information Commissions: First Appeal, Second Appeal, and Penalties

  • Module 6: Practical Workshop, Case Studies, and Interactive Q&A

 

Who Is This Course For?

This course is essential for all citizens, professionals, and public servants who wish to understand and exercise their right to information, including:

  • Citizens and Civil Society Members seeking to access government information

  • Journalists, Researchers, and Academicians

  • Public Authority Employees including Public Information Officers (PIOs) and First Appellate Authorities

  • Legal Professionals, Activists, and Social Workers

  • Students of Law, Public Administration, and Political Science

  • Corporate Professionals dealing with government interface and compliance

  • Anyone seeking to promote transparency and accountability in governance

 

Prerequisites

There are no formal prerequisites for this course. It is designed as an introductory and practical program suitable for any citizen seeking to understand the RTI Act.

 

Course Features & Included Materials

  • Practical & Actionable Learning: Focus on real-world application, including sample RTI application drafting.

  • Case Study Driven: Learn through landmark judgments, success stories, and common mistakes.

  • Expert-Led Sessions: Participate in dedicated Q&A sessions with RTI practitioners and legal experts.

  • Comprehensive Learning Materials: Digital handbooks, sample application templates, and a ready reference guide to key sections.

  • Certificate of Training: Earn a verifiable soft-copy certificate of participation, with a unique ID and QR code. Validate your achievement anytime at  https://pathshala.qcin.org/.

 

Enroll Today and Exercise Your Democratic Right to Know!

Empower yourself with the knowledge to seek information, hold public authorities accountable, and contribute to a more transparent and just society.

 

For more information, please contact:

Rohit Varshney at rohit.varshney@qcin.org or call +91 97735 00376.