What is RTI?

Under Article 19-A of the Constitution, RTI (Right to information) is a fundamental right of every citizen of Pakistan to have the right to have access to information in all matters of public importance subject to regulation and reasonable restriction imposed by law. A citizen in addition to a government department can also have access to information of a private body which is substantially financed by the government. RTI is based upon the principle that citizens being tax payers are owners of public information. RTI boosts transparency, accountability, elimination of corruption and improvement of public service delivery.

How RTI can help you?

The information got through RTI enables citizens to hold public officials accountable for their actions, to comment upon their performance, to conduct survey on the basis of data received through RTI and to indicate gaps and weaknesses of public bodies. 

The government also benefits from RTI by becoming aware of gaps and weaknesses of public bodies. RTI also helps public officials by making it easier for them to carry out their duties more efficiently.

How Cooperative Department Facilitates RTI?

The Cooperative Department of Sindh recognizes the legal and ethical right of citizens to be informed and hold public officers and officials accountable. In alignment with the efforts made by the RTI Commission to uphold transparency, the Cooperative Department of Sindh has promptly undertaken the following measures to collaborate closely with the RTI Commission of Sindh:

Promoting Civic Enlightenment: The Cooperative Department of Sindh acknowledges the imperative of fostering a well-informed citizenry and actively advocates for the dissemination of knowledge regarding citizens' rights to access information and hold public officials accountable.

Strengthening Transparency Measures: The Cooperative Department of Sindh has implemented immediate measures to enhance transparency within its operations and decision-making processes. This includes streamlining information dissemination, ensuring timely responses to information requests, and adopting practices that facilitate greater openness.

Capacity Building and Training: Recognizing the significance of building capacity and promoting effective implementation of the Right to Information (RTI) laws, the Cooperative Department of Sindh is actively engaged in organizing training programs, workshops, and awareness sessions to empower its officers and officials with the necessary knowledge and skills to uphold transparency and respond effectively to RTI requests.

Collaborative Efforts: The Cooperative Department of Sindh actively collaborates with the RTI Commission of Sindh to share best practices, exchange knowledge, and coordinate efforts aimed at promoting transparency and accountability. This collaboration includes regular consultations, joint initiatives, and the sharing of resources to further strengthen the implementation of RTI laws.

Continuous Improvement: The Cooperative Department of Sindh maintains a commitment to continuous improvement in its transparency measures. Regular assessments and reviews are conducted to identify areas for enhancement, implement feedback mechanisms, and ensure the sustained adherence to legal and ethical principles of accountability and information access.

By undertaking these immediate actions and joining hands with the RTI Commission of Sindh, the Cooperative Department of Sindh aims to reinforce the foundations of transparency, empower citizens, and promote good governance practices throughout the cooperative sector in Sindh.