Define good governance. How does the Right to Information (RTI) Act promote the principles of good governance in India?
In short
Good governance is public administration that is transparent, accountable, responsive and inclusive, and the RTI Act 2005 promotes it through citizens' right to information, proactive disclosure and independent Information Commissions. RTI has exposed corruption such as the Adarsh Housing Society scam and helped Andhra Pradesh citizens question welfare scheme delivery.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 265 words
Constitutional and Legal Basis
RTI is grounded in Article 19(1)(a), with the Supreme Court interpreting the right to information as part of freedom of speech. Central and State Information Commissions act as independent bodies ensuring compliance, adjudicating appeals, and strengthening accountability.
Proactive Disclosure and Andhra Pradesh321 Audits
The Act mandates proactive publication of key data like policies and financials; CAG audits in Andhra Pradesh revealed ₹968 crore excess payments, and RTI lets citizens and media follow up such findings, strengthening fiscal oversight and public financial management.
Corruption Exposure and Public Engagement
RTI exposed scams like Adarsh Housing Society, empowering citizens with nearly 60 lakh annual applications despite bureaucratic resistance and delays that sometimes undermine timely accountability.
State-Level Impact and Digital Inclusion
In Andhra Pradesh, RTI has improved welfare scheme scrutiny and service delivery, enabling public participation in governance; expanding digital access and literacy there can enhance citizen engagement and bridge rural-urban divides.
E-Governance Integration
Leveraging e-governance platforms in Andhra Pradesh to automate proactive disclosures can increase transparency, reduce bureaucratic opacity, and improve responsiveness.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2025 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.