1 minPolitical Concept
Political Concept

Transparency

What is Transparency?

Transparency in governance refers to the openness and accessibility of government actions, decisions, and information to the public. It ensures that citizens can scrutinize government activities and hold officials accountable.

Historical Background

The emphasis on transparency in India gained momentum with the enactment of the Right to Information Act (RTI) in 2005. This Act empowered citizens to access information held by public authorities.

Key Points

9 points
  • 1.

    Ensures access to information held by public authorities

  • 2.

    Promotes accountability and reduces corruption

  • 3.

    Empowers citizens to participate in governance

  • 4.

    Requires proactive disclosure of information by government departments

  • 5.

    Establishes mechanisms for citizens to seek information

  • 6.

    Protects whistleblowers who expose wrongdoing

  • 7.

    Improves public trust in government

  • 8.

    Facilitates informed decision-making by citizens

  • 9.

    Strengthens democratic processes

Visual Insights

Understanding Transparency in Governance

This mind map illustrates the key aspects of transparency, its benefits, and the legal framework supporting it.

Transparency

  • Definition
  • Benefits
  • Legal Framework

Recent Developments

5 developments

Increasing use of technology to enhance transparency (e-governance)

Challenges in implementing RTI effectively

Concerns about protection of whistleblowers

Efforts to promote proactive disclosure of information

Debate on balancing transparency with privacy and national security

Source Topic

Cricket Governance: How Ego Clashes Impact Global Game Development

Social Issues

UPSC Relevance

Important for UPSC GS Paper 2 (Governance, Polity) and GS Paper 4 (Ethics). Questions are often asked on the role of RTI in promoting good governance and combating corruption.

Understanding Transparency in Governance

This mind map illustrates the key aspects of transparency, its benefits, and the legal framework supporting it.

Transparency

Openness & Accessibility

Honesty & Clarity

Enhanced Public Trust

Informed Decision-Making

Right to Information Act

Data Protection Laws

Connections
TransparencyDefinition
TransparencyBenefits
TransparencyLegal Framework