Right to Information (RTI) Services Portal
Direct official links to submit RTI applications, track progress, file appeals, and access rules.
File Online RTI Application
Submit RTI applications directly to Central Ministries, Departments, and Public Authorities online.
Check RTI Application Status
Track the real-time status of your submitted RTI application using registration number and email.
Submit First Appeal Online
File a First Appeal if your RTI reply is delayed beyond 30 days or if you are unsatisfied with the response.
Central Information Commission (CIC)
File Second Appeals, complaints against CPIO non-compliance, view CIC orders and hearing cause lists.
DoPT Official RTI Guidelines & Rules
Access official RTI Act provisions, fee rules, postal order guidelines, and public authority list.
Offline RTI Guidelines & Fee Structure
Learn how to submit physical RTI applications via Speed Post using Rs. 10 Indian Postal Order (IPO).
RTI Services in India: File RTI Online, Appeal and Track Status
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 gives every Indian citizen the right to ask for information held by a public authority. You can file an RTI application online, track it, and appeal if you do not get a proper reply. This guide explains the full process.
How to File an RTI Online
- For central government bodies, open rtionline.gov.in. For state bodies, use your state’s RTI portal.
- Select the ministry or department and write your questions clearly.
- Pay the application fee online (card, net banking or UPI).
- Save your registration number to track the status.
- Wait for the reply from the Public Information Officer (PIO).
RTI Fees and Timelines
- Application fee: ₹10 for central government bodies. State fees differ.
- BPL applicants: exempt from the fee with proof.
- Reply time: 30 days (48 hours for life or liberty matters).
- Copies: a small per-page charge may apply.
What to Write in Your RTI Application
- Your name and address
- The name of the public authority and department
- Specific, numbered questions (avoid vague or opinion questions)
- The period and documents you want, if any
First Appeal and Second Appeal
If you get no reply, an incomplete reply or a rejection, you can appeal.
- First appeal: file with the First Appellate Authority within 30 days of the reply or the date it was due. The appeal should be decided within 30 days (extendable to 45).
- Second appeal: file with the Central or State Information Commission within 90 days.
What Information Can Be Refused?
Section 8 of the Act exempts some information, such as matters affecting national security or sovereignty, ongoing investigations and cabinet papers during decision-making. Requests for personal information have also changed after the DPDP Act amended Section 8(1)(j), so ask only for information connected to public activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fee for filing an RTI application?
The fee is Rs 10 for central government bodies. State fees differ. Applicants below the poverty line are exempt with proof.
How many days does the PIO have to reply?
The Public Information Officer must reply within 30 days of receiving a valid application. In matters of life or liberty, the reply is due within 48 hours.
Can I file an RTI online?
Yes. For central government bodies, use rtionline.gov.in. For state government bodies, use your state’s RTI portal.
What if I do not get a reply within 30 days?
You can file a first appeal with the First Appellate Authority within 30 days of the reply or of the date the reply was due.
How do I file a second appeal?
If the first appeal fails, file a second appeal with the Central or State Information Commission within 90 days.
Is there a fee for the first appeal?
For central government bodies there is no fee for the first appeal. Some states charge a fee, so check your state rules.
Disclaimer: This content is for general information only, is not legal advice, and is not affiliated with the Government of India. Fees and procedures vary by state. Confirm details on the official RTI portal.