Right to Information Act (RTI) Explained

By YESPYQ · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read
Quick answer

The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, empowers citizens to request information from public authorities, promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, empowers citizens to request information from public authorities, promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

How it works

Citizens can file requests with a Public Information Officer (PIO), who must generally respond within a set time. Certain categories of information are exempt for reasons like national security.

Institutions

Central and State Information Commissions hear appeals and complaints, functioning as the enforcing authorities under the Act.

Why it matters for UPSC

The RTI Act's 2005 enactment, the PIO mechanism and Information Commissions are frequently tested Polity and governance facts.

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Frequently asked questions

When was the RTI Act enacted?

In 2005.

Who handles RTI requests in a public authority?

The Public Information Officer (PIO).