New rules mandate digital certificates, detailed medical info in death records, and stricter penalties for false data
WAJAHAT SHABIR
SRINAGAR: The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has announced significant amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Registration of Births and Deaths Rules, 2022, aimed at improving the efficiency and accuracy of birth and death registrations.
The changes, notified on May 2, 2025, introduce new formats, digital options, and stricter guidelines for reporting and certifying births and deaths.
A notification in this regard has been issued by the Planning, Development, and Monitoring Department.
One of the key changes is the introduction of a standardized format for names, dates, and addresses in all registration forms. Names must now be provided in the format of first name, middle name, and last name, without abbreviations. Dates must follow the dd-mm-yyyy format, and addresses must include detailed information such as state, district, sub-district, town or village, ward number, locality, house number, and PIN code.
The amendments also emphasize the use of digital methods for issuing certificates. Registrars are now required to provide birth and death certificates electronically or otherwise, ensuring quicker and more accessible services for citizens. Additionally, the rules have been updated to include provisions for delayed registrations, with specific fees and procedures outlined for reporting births and deaths after the standard 30-day period.
Another notable change is the inclusion of detailed medical information in death certificates. Medical practitioners must now provide a comprehensive history of illness, if any, along with the cause of death. This move is expected to improve the accuracy of mortality data and aid in public health planning.
The amendments also introduce new forms for reporting births, deaths, and stillbirths, along with updated formats for birth and death certificates. These forms now include sections for Aadhaar numbers, mobile numbers, and email IDs, reflecting the government’s push towards digital integration and identity verification.
To ensure compliance, the rules have introduced stricter penalties for false information and non-compliance. Offences under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act can now be compounded with fines ranging from ₹50 to ₹1,000, depending on the nature of the violation.
The changes are part of the government’s broader efforts to modernize the registration process, improve data accuracy, and make services more accessible to the public. By introducing digital options and standardized formats, the amendments aim to streamline the registration process and ensure that vital records are maintained accurately and efficiently.
The new rules have been welcomed by officials and citizens alike, who see them as a step towards a more transparent and efficient system for recording vital events. The amendments are expected to come into effect immediately, with registrars and other officials being instructed to implement the changes promptly.
By order of the Lieutenant Governor, the amendments have been communicated to all relevant departments and officials, ensuring a coordinated rollout across the region. The government has also emphasized the importance of public awareness, urging citizens to familiarize themselves with the new rules and procedures to ensure smooth compliance.
