Write a focused RTI request

Start with the authority and a short subject. Number the records you want. Specify identifiers and the period, and choose copies, certified copies, an electronic copy or inspection as appropriate. The builder on this website helps format these items; it does not check that the records exist.

Section 7(9) ordinarily provides information in the form sought unless that would disproportionately divert resources or harm the safety or preservation of the record. It is not a blanket exemption from giving information.

Section 6(1) permits a written or electronic request in English, Hindi or the official language of the area. If a person cannot make a written request, the PIO must provide reasonable assistance to reduce an oral request to writing.

Section 6(2) says you need not give reasons for seeking information or personal details beyond those necessary for contacting you. Include a usable contact address. Avoid Aadhaar, PAN and unrelated personal records; the Central portal explicitly says not to upload ID documents except a BPL certificate where applicable.

The Central Rules ordinarily limit the application to 500 words excluding annexures, but do not permit rejection solely for exceeding that length. State or competent-authority rules may differ.

The Central portal’s request field is limited to 3,000 characters and its published guidelines describe restricted input characters. For longer text or unsupported script, check its current supporting-document instructions. A downloaded text file is a draft, not automatically a portal-compatible attachment: use print/save as PDF if the portal requires PDF, then verify its current size and filename rules.