Why should fathers have all the mentions? Maharashtra govt mandates inclusion of mothers’ names in documents as recognition of their vital role

In a significant move aimed at recognising mothers' vital roles in upbringing, the Maharashtra cabinet has mandated the inclusion of mothers' names in government documents. Effective May 1, 2024, the format for government documents will require the document-holder’s first name to be followed by the mother’s first name and then the father’s first name and surname.

Individuals born on or after May 1, 2014, are required to adhere to this format for all government documents, including birth certificates, property documents, Aadhar cards and PAN cards, as well as school and revenue documents, examination certificates and salary slips, as stated in the government’s press note.

The state's public health department has been tasked with consulting the Centre regarding the inclusion of the mother’s name in birth and death registrations.

For married women, the prevailing practice of listing the woman’s name followed by her husband’s first name and surname will remain unchanged. Orphans will be exempt from including the mother’s name.

In alignment with this decision, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had a new nameplate installed outside his office chamber at the state secretariat in south Mumbai. The updated nameplate now includes his mother's name before that of his father, reading 'Eknath Gangubai Sambhaji Shinde'.

Shinde posted a picture of the same on his X, with part of the caption reading: “The state government has taken a historic decision to give credit to Mauli, who plays a lion's share in raising us right from giving birth to us.”


Historically, government documents have predominantly featured the father's name. However, acknowledging that mothers are equally instrumental in a child's upbringing, the Women and Child Development Department emphasised the necessity of granting mothers the recognition they deserve.

Meanwhile, critics have questioned whether this move is a pre-election strategy to appeal to women voters before the Lok Sabha polls' code of conduct is enforced. Overall, experts feel that the move could provide an opportunity for revisiting the archaic practices of a patriarchal presence throughout an individual’s life.