Registration of births and deaths is a crucial legal and administrative process that establishes the identity of individuals and ensures access to rights and services. Under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969, it is mandatory to register every birth and death within the country. Timely registration is not only a legal requirement but also a vital step in empowering individuals and supporting national planning.

 Why Registration Matters

For Individuals:

·         Establishes legal identity and citizenship.

·         Ensures access to services like education, health care, and social benefits.

·         The Birth Certificate is the only official document that proves the date and place of birth.

For the Nation:

·         Provides data for effective planning and evaluation of public programs.

·         Supports public health initiatives and national development strategies.

 How to Register Births and Deaths

Timeline for Registration:

·         Within 21 days (Free of Cost):

o At Home: Head of the household must report to the local Registrar.

o In Hospitals: The medical officer in charge is responsible for reporting the event.

·         After 21 Days:

o 22 to 30 Days: Can still be registered with a late fee.

o 30 Days to 1 Year: Requires written permission from the District Registrar.

o After 1 Year: Requires an order from a Magistrate and payment of prescribed fees.

Special Provisions:

·         Births can be registered without a name.

·         The child’s name can be added free of cost within 12 months; beyond that, a fee is applicable.

 Documents Required

For Birth Registration:

·         Hospital Discharge Slip or Vaccination Card

·         Proof of Address

·         Aadhaar Card of Parents

·         Magistrate’s Order (if delayed beyond 1 year)

·         Any other supporting document

For Death Registration:

·         Proof of Death

·         Hospital: Medical Certificate of Cause of Death

·         Home: Colony Chairman’s Certificate

·         Aadhaar Card of the Deceased

·         Magistrate’s Order (if delayed beyond 1 year)

·         Any other supporting document

Using the Revamped CRS Portal

The Civil Registration System (CRS) is a continuous and mandatory mechanism for recording life events like births, deaths, and stillbirths.

The online services are available at: dc.crsorgi.gov.in where one can:

·  Apply for birth or death certificates online

·  Upload documents and pay late registration fees

·  Receive digital certificates via email or SMS

·  Digitize older manually issued certificates for easier access

Duties and Responsibilities

For Citizens:

·         Report all births and deaths promptly.

·         Submit accurate information and required documents.

·         Follow legal procedures for delayed registrations.

·         Avoid false reporting, which is punishable by law.

For Registrars:

·         Register events without fee or reward (Section 7(2) of RBD Act).

·         Issue certificates within 7 days of reporting (Section 12).

·         Perform Suo Motu registration where necessary.

·         Correct or cancel entries as per Section 15.

·         Add the child’s name post-registration under Section 14.

·         Maintain accurate and secure records (Section 16 & 19).

·         Facilitate search of entries (Section 17).

·         Submit monthly reports to the competent authority.

·         Obtain a certificate of cause of death under MCCD (Medical Certification of Cause of Death) scheme.

Stay Compliant, Stay Empowered.

Birth and death registration is more than a legal formality; it’s a foundation for dignity, identity, and access to rights. Birth Certificate is the only document to proof date and place of birth. Register on time, ensure the accuracy of details, and contribute to a more transparent and accountable public system. For assistance, contact your local Registrar.

 

(DIPR)