RTI Templates & Tips

The Right to Information (RTI) movement in Rajasthan was instrumental in ensuring that the government was open and accountable to the people. In 2000, Rajasthan passed its own RTI law. This was a significant advancement in citizens’ rights to request information from government offices.

Because of this law, citizens were given the right to understand how the government functions, makes decisions, and spends taxpayer money. It also empowered citizens to participate in government oversight and ensure it was working for the people.

Five years later, in 2005, the entire country adopted a national RTI Act. However, Rajasthan had already laid the groundwork for implementing this important legislation. The RTI law gives citizens the right to ask questions and demand answers from the government, which, through this demand for accountability, ultimately makes the entire system more honest and transparent.

Using a template for an RTI application in Rajasthan is not compulsory, but it streamlines the process and makes it more likely that you will receive the information you requested. A template can help you develop a clear and complete application that is less susceptible to rejection.

Here are the benefits of a template

It includes all essential information.
RTI applications must include certain details, such as your name, address, the information you are requesting, and the agency to which you are applying. A template helps ensure that you do not omit any important information.

Simple and easy to read.
Templates are formatted plainly and concisely. This allows the Public Information Officer (PIO) to quickly assess your request, which reduces confusion and delays.

Fewer errors, fewer rejections.
Templates typically help prevent errors, such as listing the wrong address or failing to clearly state your question. This can help you avoid having your application rejected.

Save time and energy
Using a template saves you from developing your application from scratch. The template provides a structured format. You simply need to fill in your details, which saves both time and effort.

Better opportunities to obtain information
A complete and well-written application is more likely to receive a response. A template can help you create one easily.

Information on fees
Most templates also inform you about the RTI fee amount and how to pay it, helping ensure you don’t forget this important step.

Useful for online RTI applications.
If you are applying online, having a template helps you prepare all the necessary information in advance. Having this information written down makes it easier to complete the online form.

Heading

At the top of your letter, write: “Application under the Right to Information Act, 2005”

Your Details (Applicant’s Details)

• Your full name
• Your full address with pin code
• Your phone number (not mandatory, but helpful)
• Your email address (not mandatory, but helpful)

To Whom You Are Writing (Public Authority Details)

• Name of the government department/office
• Address of the department

Information You Want (Information Requested)

• Clearly state the information you want.
• Mention a timeframe, such as: “I want records from January 2022 to December 2022.”
• If you want documents, letters, or reports, mention them.
• Be clear and specific; don’t write general or broad questions

Application Fee

• Usually, you are required to pay a fee
• Mention how you paid the fee. For example: “I am enclosing a postal order/demand draft/online payment receipt for the application fee.”

Date & Signature

• Write the date of the application.
• Sign at the bottom

Extras (Optional)

• Reference number or file number, if you know it
• Officer’s name, if the request is for a specific officer

Key Points to Note

• When formulating your request, write it in simple and accurate terms that can be easily understood.
• Familiarize yourself with the fee guidelines in Rajasthan and ensure you pay the correct amount.

How to Submit

You can apply by post, in person, or online (if the department allows online applications).

Timeframe for a Reply

You should receive a reply within 30 days of the application being received.

They offer RTI application templates for use in Rajasthan in both English and Hindi to make it as easy as possible for people to request information from the government under the Right to Information (RTI) Act. These templates allow you to write your application simply and correctly.

Here is how to get RTI templates and how you can use them:

Search online
Go to Google or any other search engine and type:

• RTI application template Rajasthan English
• RTI application template Rajasthan Hindi

You will find numerous websites offering free templates.

Download templates
Click and choose a trustworthy website from which to download the RTI template (in PDF or Word document format).
Websites like RTIwala.com, among others, offer free templates you can easily copy and use.

RTI application through online websites
Some websites allow you to file your RTI application online. These platforms include built-in templates in their forms, allowing you to fill in the required details and submit the application directly through the website.

Fill out the template and submit
Once you have downloaded the template:

• Enter your name, address, contact details, etc.
• Clearly state the information you are requesting.
• You may briefly mention the reason for your request (optional).

Then submit your completed application:

• Online (if the department accepts online RTIs)
• By post or in person, to the appropriate government department

Review official sites
You can also check the official website of the Rajasthan State Information Commission. They may provide:

• RTI template formats
• Fee structure and payment information
• Step-by-step application procedures

RTI templates can help you save time and reduce mistakes. In most cases, RTI templates are available online, and you can simply fill in your personal information and send it to the appropriate government office. This makes it easier for you to ask questions and obtain information from the government.

When making an RTI application, it is a good idea to use simple and clear language. Make sure to ask only specific and related questions, and do not combine multiple unrelated topics into one request. This will help the officer considerably when trying to understand your query.

Avoid using emotional language or adopting a blaming tone; always be polite and respectful. Be sure to mention the period for which you are requesting information, for example: “I am requesting statistics from January 2023 to March 2023.”

If you are requesting documents, specify whether you want a hard copy (printed) or a soft copy (PDF or email). A clear, polite, and focused application increases your chances of receiving the correct information quickly and without confusion.

When writing an RTI application, always request documents or records, not someone else’s opinion or comments. RTI is intended to provide you with facts, not personal opinions. Be sure to send your application to the proper department that holds the information you are seeking. This will save time and reduce the risk of your application being rejected. Also, make sure to pay the application fee and indicate how you paid it, for example, by postal order or through an online payment.

Avoid using vague phrases like “all details” or “everything that is related to…”. Instead, ask for specific documents or information within a defined time period. A clear, targeted, and properly submitted application will help you access the correct information more quickly.

There are two ways to apply for RTI in Rajasthan: online or offline. Follow this simple guide:

Find the Right Office

First, identify which government office holds the information you are seeking. This will be either a state department or a central government department.

Select the Application Method

Online: For central government offices, use the official RTI online portal.
Offline: For Rajasthan state government offices, submit a written application to the appropriate Public Information Officer (PIO).

Draft Your Application

• Use simple and clear language.
• Be specific about the information you want.
• Include your name, address, phone number, and email (if applicable).
• If you’re requesting information for a specific time, mention it (e.g., “records from Jan 2023 to Mar 2023”).

Pay the Application Fee

The RTI application fee is usually ₹10.

• Online: Pay using a credit or debit card.
• Offline: Enclose a postal order or demand draft with your application.

Submit Your Application

Online: Make the payment and fill out the form on the RTI portal.
Offline: Send your application by registered mail or speed post to the PIO’s address. Don’t forget to sign your application.

Track Your Application

Online: Return to the RTI portal to check the status of your application.
Offline: Contact the PIO or use your acknowledgment number to follow up on the status.

RTI is a powerful tool for requesting information from the government and holding the system accountable. It empowers citizens to understand how their government works and to engage with it. RTI templates make the entire process uncomplicated and save time.

Whether you want to access land records, obtain exam results, or get details of a government scheme, a properly prepared RTI application can help you receive the desired information. Do not let anyone discourage or intimidate you when exercising this right. It is a legal right and a way to promote better governance.