In India, birth certificates are typically stored and maintained at the local government level, specifically by the Municipal Corporation or Municipality in urban areas. In villages, it’s the panchayat or village administration that issues this certificate. Each state in India has its own set of regulations and administrative bodies that are responsible for the registration and preservation of birth certificates.
Once the child is born, it is mandatory for parents or guardians to register & obtain the birth certificate within a specified period, usually within 21 days, with the local authorities. This registration process involves providing relevant details such as the child's name, date of birth, place of birth, parents' names, and other necessary information.
Once registered, this certificate is generated and stored in the records of the respective local administrative body. In urban areas, these records are often maintained digitally, while in rural areas, physical registers may still be used. Additionally, copies of birth certificates are provided to the parents or guardians for their records and future reference.
Access to birth certificates is typically facilitated through the respective local administrative offices where the birth was registered. These offices serve as the primary points of contact for obtaining copies of birth certificates, issuing official copies for legal purposes, and updating or making corrections to existing records as needed.
Overall, the storage and management of birth certificates in India are decentralized. However, digital locker facility is also provided to citizens for securing their documents. This is how local government bodies play a crucial role in maintaining accurate records and ensuring accessibility for citizens.