Filing your first RTI — in under 10 minutes
4 min read · Educational content only
Pick the right PIO
Every public authority has a Public Information Officer (PIO). Find the right department first — central ministries through rtionline.gov.in, state departments through the state RTI portal, and PSUs/local bodies through their own contact pages.
Write the questions, not a story
RTI works best as a list of factual questions: 'Provide a copy of…', 'How many applications were received between…', 'What is the status of file no…'. Avoid 'why' questions — they invite refusal.
Fees and timelines
₹10 for central RTIs (free for BPL applicants). The PIO must respond within 30 days. If not, file a first appeal with the same authority's appellate officer within 30 days of the deadline.
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See services →Disclaimer: This guide is general legal information, not legal advice. Your situation may differ. Consult an advocate for advice specific to you.