International Day for Universal Access to Information marked on September 28

Every year on September 28, countries around the world observe the International Day for Universal Access to Information, known by the acronym IDUAI. The day was declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and is considered vital for bringing transparency, accountability and good governance to administration.

The right to information is not merely a legal rule but a part of human rights. When citizens get easy access to information held by public institutions and the government, they are able to make better decisions. In India too, since the Right to Information Act, 2005 came into force, ordinary citizens have gained a powerful tool to question the administration. On this day, citizens across the world are reminded of this right so that they can keep watch on government functioning and help curb corruption.

Today, in the age of the digital revolution, information pours in every moment through smartphones and social media. But amid this flood of information, the biggest challenge is telling the truth apart from fake news. The spread of misinformation and rumours creates confusion in society and weakens the democratic process. That is why merely receiving information is no longer enough; it has become essential for that information to be reliable, authoritative and true.

Open and unhindered access to information helps bring equality in society. This right acts as a strong shield for journalists, social activists and ordinary citizens. It becomes easier for journalists to access government data and documents for fair reporting. When citizens receive accurate information, they are able to take full advantage of the government's welfare schemes, and it also becomes easier to establish social justice.

This day, observed on UNESCO's initiative, is based on a special theme each year, through which countries across the world are urged to improve their right to information laws and use digital technology to make information more accessible. Access to information is not limited to government alone; it is also directly linked to education, health, environment and economic development.

Finally, the International Day for Universal Access to Information reminds every citizen that the right to knowledge and information is the true soul of democracy. Choosing truth over rumours, asking questions to bring transparency to administrative work, and making proper use of one's basic rights is the responsibility of every conscious citizen. A commitment to awareness taken on this day can build a stronger and wiser society.