A robust Civil Registration System (CRS) forms the backbone of effective governance and national development, providing critical data for planning and policymaking. In India, the Registration of Births and Deaths (RBD) Act, 1969 plays a pivotal role in capturing vital events and providing the necessary legal documentation for citizens. However, despite its significance, the system faced significant challenges that prevented the timely availability of accurate data, particularly for public health planning. The RBD Amendment Act of 2023 marks a watershed moment by not only updating legal and administrative frameworks but also positioning CRS as a strategic health governance tool. This article examines the evolution of India’s CRS, highlights key amendments in the RBD Act, 2023, and analyses their implications for health policy, mortality surveillance, equitable service delivery, and digital health integration
Khanna et al. (2026) studied this question.