The Right to Information Act has set out a relatively simple process for accessing information. Public Information Officer (PIO), who accepts requisitions and provides information.

Who gives the Information?

• The Public Information Officer
• The Assistant Public Information Officer

How to access information?

• Request to be made in writing or electronic form to the Central/State PIO or APIO
• No reason to be given by the applicant for requesting the information
• No personal details except that necessary to contact the applicant

What it costs to obtain Information?

• Application fee of Rs.10 – by way of cash, DD, or bankers cheque
• Rs.2 for each page (A4 or A3 size) created or copies
• Actual in case of large size paper
• Actual cost of samples/modules

Exemption from payment of Fees

• No fee to be collected from persons who are of below poverty line
• Applicant should prove by way of a certificate/document that he belongs to BPL
• No fee if the Public Authority fails to comply with the time limits

Time limit for supply of information

• Within 30 days on payment of fees
• Provide information or reject
• Within 48 hours if information concerns life or liberty of a person
• If no reply or information is received as above, it is presumed to have been rejected

What information will not be disclosed?

• Affecting Sovereignty and integrity of India
• Forbidden by Court of Law
• Would cause breach of privilege
• Trade secrets, IPRs etc.
• Information available in a fiduciary position
• Received in confidence from foreign Government
• Endanger life or physical safety
• Impede process of investigation
• Cabinet papers (decision made shall be made public)
• Unwarranted invasion of privacy of a person