Chief Information Commissioner, Mizoram Information Commission, Conducts Rti Act Training For Spios And Sapios In Lawngtlai District

Lawngtlai : Pu John Neihalai, Chief Information Commissioner, and Pu H. Dolianbuaia, Secretary (MIC), from the Mizoram Information Commission conducted a training session on the Right to Information (RTI) Act for State Public Information Officers (SPIOs) and State Assistant Public Information Officers (SAPIOs) in Lawngtlai District.

Addressing the gathering, Pu John Neihalai highlighted that the RTI Act has been in effect across India since October 12, 2005, and was implemented in Mizoram in June 2006 with the establishment of the Mizoram Information Commission. He emphasized the crucial role of SPIOs and SAPIOs in ensuring transparency and accountability in governance, urging them to recognize the importance of the RTI Act in promoting good governance.

He further pointed out that many progressive nations have strong legal frameworks for ensuring transparency, and India, too, has embraced the RTI Act as a tool for participatory governance. He encouraged the people of Mizoram to fully utilize the Act for their benefit.

Recognizing the challenges faced by SPIOs and SAPIOs, the Chief Information Commissioner urged them to remain proactive in facilitating information access. He emphasized the importance of prompt responses to public inquiries and stressed that SAPIOs should always have access to guidance from SPIOs to ensure smooth operations.

Regarding online RTI applications, Pu John Neihalai stated that Mizoram has seen a significant increase in online RTI queries, with over 1,107 applications received this year alone. Given the growing volume of inquiries, he encouraged SPIOs and SAPIOs to adapt and improve their efficiency in handling requests. He also commended them for their dedicated efforts and urged them to continue upholding transparency in governance.

Pu H. Dolianbuaia, Secretary (MIC), conducted a training session on the RTI Act, 2005, followed by an interactive session for addressing queries and concerns.

During the closing session, Pu Zoramsiama Hmar, Additional DC, expressed appreciation to all attendees, acknowledging the active participation of SPIOs and SAPIOs from the Mizoram Government and the Lai Autonomous District Council (LADC). In his closing remarks, Pu H. Dolianbuaia extended gratitude to all participants for their engagement and cooperation.