RTI Application Format

सूचना का अधिकार आवेदन प्रारूप

Applications Updated: 2025-02-28

Overview

An RTI (Right to Information) application is a formal request filed under the RTI Act, 2005 to obtain information from any public authority. Every Indian citizen has the right to seek information from government bodies.
Hindi सूचना का अधिकार (RTI) आवेदन RTI अधिनियम, 2005 के तहत किसी भी सार्वजनिक प्राधिकरण से जानकारी प्राप्त करने के लिए दायर किया जाने वाला एक औपचारिक अनुरोध है।

When to Use This Format

  • To obtain information from any government department or public authority
  • To check the status of government applications (passport, PF, pension)
  • To get copies of official documents and records
  • To inquire about government decisions and policies
  • To seek accountability and transparency from public offices

Key Components

  1. 1 Addressee

    Name and designation of the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the concerned department.

  2. 2 Applicant Details

    Full name, address, and contact details of the person seeking information.

  3. 3 Subject

    Clear subject line indicating the nature of information sought.

  4. 4 Questions

    Specific, numbered questions or description of information required.

  5. 5 Fee Details

    Mode of payment of application fee (Rs. 10 for Central, varies for State).

  6. 6 Declaration

    Statement that the applicant is an Indian citizen and the information is for lawful purposes.

Sample Format

Download Word Document
APPLICATION UNDER RIGHT TO INFORMATION ACT, 2005 To, The Public Information Officer, [Name of Department/Office] [Full Address] Subject: Request for Information under RTI Act, 2005 Respected Sir/Madam, I, [Full Name], an Indian citizen, hereby request you to provide the following information under the Right to Information Act, 2005: 1. [First specific question or description of information needed] 2. [Second question] 3. [Third question] 4. [Additional questions as needed] I am depositing the prescribed fee of Rs. 10/- (Rupees Ten only) by way of [Indian Postal Order No. _____ / Court Fee Stamp / Demand Draft / Online Payment]. Note: If I belong to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) category, I am exempt from the fee. (BPL certificate attached.) I request that the information be provided in [English/Hindi/local language] by way of [photocopies/inspection of documents/certified copies]. If the information sought is not within the jurisdiction of your office, kindly transfer this application to the concerned PIO under Section 6(3) of the RTI Act, 2005. Thanking you, Date: _______________ Place: _______________ (Signature) [Full Name] [Address] [Phone/Email]

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Identify the Public Authority

Determine which government department or office holds the information you need.

2

Draft Specific Questions

Frame clear, specific questions. Avoid vague queries. Ask for copies of specific documents or records.

3

Pay the Fee

Attach Rs. 10 fee via IPO, Court Fee Stamp, DD, or pay online. BPL cardholders are exempt.

4

Submit the Application

Send by post, submit in person, or file online at rtionline.gov.in for central government departments.

5

Track Your Application

Note the date of submission and any acknowledgment number. Response is due within 30 days.

6

File First Appeal if Needed

If not satisfied or no response received within 30 days, file a first appeal with the First Appellate Authority.

Important Notes

  • The PIO must respond within 30 days of receiving the application (48 hours in life/liberty matters).
  • If information is denied, you can file a First Appeal within 30 days and then approach the Information Commission.
  • RTI fee is Rs. 10 for Central Government. State fees vary (Rs. 10-50).
  • BPL cardholders are exempt from all fees including copying charges.
  • You do not need to give a reason for seeking information under RTI.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file an RTI application online?

Yes, you can file RTI applications online at rtionline.gov.in for central government departments. Many states also have their own online RTI portals. The fee can be paid online through internet banking, credit/debit card, or UPI.

What if the PIO does not respond to my RTI application?

If no response is received within 30 days, it is deemed a refusal. You can file a First Appeal with the First Appellate Authority within 30 days of the expiry of the response period. If the First Appeal is also unsatisfactory, you can approach the Central/State Information Commission.

Can RTI be filed for private companies?

RTI Act applies only to public authorities - government bodies, departments, and organizations funded by the government. Private companies are not covered unless they receive substantial government funding. However, information about private companies held by a government regulator can be sought.

Legal Disclaimer

This format is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. The format may need to be adapted based on specific circumstances, applicable laws, and jurisdictional requirements. Always consult a qualified advocate or legal professional before filing any legal document. For more details, see our Disclaimer.

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