Kerala has approved a Bill to create a Nativity Card system for people recognised as natives of the State. The proposed card is intended to serve as an authoritative document for access to government services and other social requirements. The move is based on the existing Nativity Certificate framework, which already certifies that a person is a Keralite.
Key Features of the Bill
The Kerala Nativity Card Bill empowers the State government to issue Nativity Cards. These cards will be treated as official proof for services provided by the government and for certain social needs. The Bill is expected to be introduced in the current Assembly session when it reconvenes on 23 February.
Definition of Native
The Bill defines a native as a person who was born in Kerala and has not accepted foreign citizenship. It also includes a person with a Kerala-born ancestor, provided that ancestor did not relinquish Indian citizenship. People who have given up citizenship will not be eligible. If a cardholder later relinquishes citizenship, the card will become invalid.
Application and Administration
Applicants will need to apply to the concerned tahsildar. While the tahsildar will be the designated authority for sanctioning the card, registers related to the cards will be maintained in village offices. The administrative design suggests a decentralised verification process linked to local revenue offices.
Context and Significance
The proposal gained attention amid wider debate on identity documents and electoral roll revision processes. The Nativity Card is meant to formalise recognition of Kerala natives for administrative purposes. It may also influence future discussions on domicile, citizenship-linked eligibility, and State-level welfare access.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026