From 2017, SSC pass certificates will also be nationality proof

MUMBAI: From 2017, passing certificates given to Class 10 students after the Secondary School Certificate exam will also mention their place of birth, a government

MUMBAI: From 2017, passing certificates given to Class 10 students after the Secondary School Certificate exam will also mention their place of birth, a government resolution from the school education department said on Wednesday.

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The aim, government sources said, was to ensure students have long-term documented proof of both birth and nationality — essential documents when they want to appear for competitive exams.

Passing certificates are given to students with their mark sheets a few weeks after results are declared. The mark sheets contain the students’ scores, while the certificates state the candidate is eligible for admission to Class 11.

So far, information of the students’ birthplace was only mentioned on birth certificates and the school leaving certificate (LCs), which are submitted to colleges during admission. Colleges, however, do not return the LCs , leaving students with just one document that can act as proof of birth or nationality.

“The passing certificate is usually not required for any other purpose. By adding birthplace, it can be used as proof,” said Suvarna Kharat, deputy secretary of the department.

Sources said there have been cases where students apply for duplicate LCs by claiming they have lost the original and sometimes submit false undertakings. The certificates can be submitted as proof to acquire a passport, for instance, said Kharat. The government has asked the board to start the procedure to make changes to the certificates. “Candidates passing the March exams next year will get new certificates,” said Gangadhar Mhamane, chairperson of the state board.