Creation of Databases: The amendment mandates the maintenance of a national-level database of births and deaths by the Registrar General of India and state-level databases by Chief Registrars in each state.
Database Usage: The databases will provide information to update various national-level databases, including the National Population Register, Aadhaar database, electoral rolls, ration card, passport, etc.
Aadhaar Collection: The Aadhaar number of parents will be collected during birth registration.
Cause of Death Certificate: The amendment introduces changes to the issuance of cause of death certificates, requiring attending medical practitioners to provide a cause of death certificate for deaths occurring in medical institutions.
Proof of Birth and Death: The birth certificate will be accepted as proof of date and place of birth for various purposes.
Benefits:
Efficient Data Management: The amendment aims to create a comprehensive and updated database of births and deaths, facilitating efficient data management and reducing duplication in various government databases.
Streamlined Public Services: The databases will enable efficient and transparent delivery of public services by providing accurate and up-to-date information for various administrative processes.
Enhanced Identification: The use of Aadhaar numbers and birth certificates as proof of identity and birth could simplify verification processes for individuals.
Data Utilization: The data collected can be utilized for various developmental and policy planning purposes, such as public health initiatives and resource allocation.
Concerns:
Data Privacy: Collecting Aadhaar numbers and maintaining a central-level database raises concerns about data privacy and security, especially considering the potential for misuse or unauthorized access to sensitive personal information.
Exclusion: Requiring Aadhaar numbers for birth registration might lead to issues for those without Aadhaar cards, potentially excluding certain sections of the population from essential services.
Reliability of Data: The accuracy and reliability of data collected, especially cause of death information, might vary due to different medical practices and standards.
Centralization: While the amendment emphasizes a national-level database, concerns exist about centralizing data, as state-level databases could serve the purpose while maintaining localized control.
Administrative Challenges: The transition to the new system might pose administrative challenges, including coordination between various government agencies and integrating the new processes.
In summary, the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2023 introduces provisions to establish comprehensive databases and streamline processes. While it offers benefits like efficient data management and improved public services, concerns about data privacy, inclusion, and administrative challenges need to be carefully addressed to ensure the successful implementation of the amendment.
