Right to Information (RTI) Application (Form A)

सूचना का अधिकार (RTI) आवेदन पत्र (प्रपत्र क)

यह फॉर्म गाइड हिंदी में पढ़ें (Read in Hindi) →

Statutory tool under RTI Act 2005 to inspect government records, tenders, road works, answer sheets, and files.

Documents required (आवश्यक दस्तावेज)

• RTI Application specifying point-wise queries
• Postal Order / Court Fee Stamp of ₹10 (Nil for BPL cardholders)

Key details

• Authority: Public Information Officer (PIO) / All Government Departments
• Stamp paper / fee: ₹10 Application Fee (IPO / DD / Court Fee)
• How to submit: Online at RTI Online Portal or by Registered Post to PIO
• Processing time: 30 Days statutory deadline
• Official portal: https://rtionline.gov.in

How to apply

1. Identify Public Authority and Public Information Officer

   Determine the relevant government department or municipal body holding the information and identify its designated Public Information Officer (PIO).

2. Draft Precise and Specific Questions

   Draft your RTI queries clearly on Form A. Request certified copies of files, work orders, tender records, or action taken reports using clear numbered questions.

3. Pay the Statutory Application Fee

   Attach the prescribed ₹10 application fee via an Indian Postal Order (IPO), Demand Draft, Court Fee Stamp, or online payment gateway as acceptable to the department.

4. Attach Exemption Proof if Below Poverty Line

   If seeking fee waiver under BPL category, attach a self-attested photocopy of your valid BPL ration card or government income exemption certificate.

5. Submit by Registered Post or Online Portal

   Submit online via the official RTI portal or send by Registered Post AD / Speed Post to the PIO. Retain the postal tracking receipt and application copy as evidence.

How to fill the form

• In the recipient header, address 'The Public Information Officer' along with the department name, building, and administrative office address.
• Under applicant details, provide your full name, complete postal address with PIN code, and active mobile number for communication.
• Under particulars of information sought, write specific and point-wise questions avoiding speculative opinions or legal arguments.
• Under fee payment details, record the postal order number, DD number, or transaction reference and date along with the ₹10 amount.
• Affix your signature and date at the bottom of the Form A proforma.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Asking subjective opinions, hypothetical advice, or reasons ('Why did the department not do this?') instead of seeking existing recorded data.
• Failing to mention the ₹10 fee payment details or omitting the postal order number in the application text.
• Sending the application via ordinary unrecorded post without proof of delivery or postal tracking receipt.
• Combining unrelated matters concerning multiple distinct public authorities in a single RTI application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the statutory application fee for filing an RTI Form A?

The prescribed application fee is ₹10 for central government departments, while BPL cardholders are exempt from paying this fee.

What is the official deadline for the PIO to provide the requested information?

Under the RTI Act 2005, the Public Information Officer is legally obligated to provide information within 30 Days of receiving the application.

Can I seek reasons or explanations under RTI?

No, RTI covers only recorded material like government files, reports, orders, and emails; it does not obligate officers to create opinions or justify administrative decisions.

What should I do if the PIO fails to respond within 30 days?

If you receive no response within 30 Days or receive unsatisfactory information, you can file a First Appeal on Form B before the First Appellate Authority.

Can an RTI application be filed online?

Yes, for central government ministries and departments, applications can be filed online directly via the official RTI online portal.

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