 Early Times Report
UDHAMPUR, Oct 9: In a significant move to bolster transparency and reinforce the Right to Information (RTI) framework, the Sher-I-Kashmir Police Academy (SKPA) in Udhampur has launched a three-day training program aimed at equipping Central Public Information Officers (CPIOs) with vital skills. The initiative, led by SKPA's Director, Garib Dass, IPS, is designed to ensure that CPIOs are well-versed in managing RTI requests in accordance with legal and ethical standards.
The training, inaugurated today by Garib Dass, focuses on several key areas critical to the effective implementation of the RTI Act, 2005. These include:
Overview of the Right to Information Act, 2005: Detailed understanding of the CPIOs' legal responsibilities and obligations under the RTI Act.
Efficient Management of RTI Requests: Techniques for timely responses, accurate record-keeping, and handling sensitive information. Handling Appeals and Exemptions: Addressing appeals, applying exemptions, and balancing transparency with national security.
Information Disclosure & Data Protection: Strategies for protecting personal data while maintaining transparency, in line with the RTI Act.
Best Practices in Public Information Management: Case studies and discussions to promote best practices across departments.
The program includes interactive sessions led by experts from the legal, administrative, and public information sectors. The training is designed to help CPIOs meet public information demands while upholding the integrity of governance.
In his inaugural address, Garib Dass emphasized the importance of the RTI Act in promoting transparency and accountability, noting that CPIOs must be proficient in both the letter and the spirit of the Act to foster openness while safeguarding state interests.
The event also saw the presence of key officials, including Rajinder Kumar Gupta, IPS, SSP, Deputy Director Indoor Trainings, Rajesh Bali, IPS, Deputy Director Outdoor, and Chief Prosecuting Officer Rakesh Sambyal. The course is being coordinated by Raiz Ahmed, Senior Prosecuting Officer, with support from ASI Rajinder Singh.
This training marks an important step in ensuring that CPIOs are fully equipped to handle the increasing demands for information from the public, while maintaining the integrity of public service. |
