Jammu: In a landmark move to enhance transparency and accountability in governance, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the Jammu & Kashmir Right to Information (RTI) Online Portal at the Civil Secretariat. The initiative aims to simplify access to government information for citizens under the RTI Act.
The launch event saw the participation of Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Cabinet Ministers Sakeena Itoo, Javed Ahmad Rana, and Javed Ahmad Dar, along with Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta, and other senior officials.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah praised the officers involved in the portal’s development and emphasized its transformative impact. “This online platform will make the RTI application process faster, more transparent, and cost-effective, empowering citizens with easier access to information,” he stated. He also called for widespread publicity to ensure the initiative reaches every corner of the Union Territory.
Developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) Jammu and Kashmir, the portal enables citizens to submit RTI requests, track their progress, and receive responses online, eliminating the need for physical visits to government offices. Key features include a user-friendly interface, streamlined workflows, and robust documentation capabilities.
During the event, Secretary of the General Administration Department (GAD), M. Raju, delivered a detailed presentation on the portal’s functionalities. He highlighted its accessibility, efficiency, and role in fostering accountability.
A unique feature of the platform is the issuance of a registration number to applicants via SMS and email, ensuring seamless tracking of RTI applications. The portal integrates 61 government departments, 272 nodal officers, 720 First Appellate Authorities (FAAs), and 3,419 Public Information Officers (PIOs), ensuring comprehensive coverage across Jammu & Kashmir.
The RTI Online Portal marks a significant step forward in empowering citizens with information and fostering a culture of openness in governance.
