The Punjab Local Government and Community Development Department has digitized the province’s birth and death registration system under newly notified rules designed to make the process faster and more convenient for citizens.
The new system will come into effect on August 1, with all birth and death registrations to be processed through an online platform. The initiative aims to improve public access to registration services while reducing paperwork and delays.
Under the revised rules, citizens will be able to register births and deaths free of charge for up to seven years from the date of occurrence. Computerized birth and death certificates will also be issued without any fee during this seven-year period.
The department has abolished all previous registration charges for cases reported within seven years. In another major change, citizens will no longer be required to obtain a court decree for delayed registrations, making the process simpler and more accessible.
The new rules also define the responsibilities of local authorities for approving registrations based on the age of the case. Secretaries of the relevant Union Councils will be authorised to register the births of children up to one year of age.
For children older than one year and up to seven years of age, registrations will require approval from the Assistant Director. Cases involving individuals older than seven years will be handled by the relevant Deputy Director.
Officials believe the digitised system will improve the accuracy of public records, reduce administrative hurdles, and ensure faster delivery of registration services across Punjab. The online platform is also expected to make it easier for citizens to obtain official documents without unnecessary delays.
The Punjab government says the updated registration framework is part of broader efforts to modernise public services through digital technology and improve access to essential civic documentation for residents across the province.
Also read: Punjab Announces New Administrative Changes Across Departments
