Welcoming a baby into the world is a joyous occasion. Alongside the emotional excitement, there are some essential legal steps every parent must complete to ensure the child's identity and future benefits are safeguarded. In Tamil Nadu, two of the most critical processes for new parents are PICME registration and obtaining the birth certificate. These not only establish a child’s legal identity but also unlock access to government welfare schemes and health services.

Let’s explore these processes in detail, including the legal provisions, step-by-step procedures, and frequently asked questions.

What is PICME?

PICME stands for Pregnancy and Infant Cohort Monitoring and Evaluation. It’s an initiative by the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine of Tamil Nadu to monitor and support pregnant women throughout the stages of pregnancy. By registering in PICME, pregnant women are given a unique RCH ID (Reproductive and Child Health ID), which links them to various maternal healthcare services offered by the state government.

PICME is also closely linked to the birth registration process. Without a valid RCH ID, a birth certificate cannot be issued for a newborn in Tamil Nadu.

Legal Provisions for PICME and Birth Registration

• Birth Certificate:

  • The issuance of birth certificates in India is governed by the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969.

  • As per Section 8, it is mandatory for the head of the household, hospital, or any other person present at the birth to report the event to the registrar.

  • Under Section 13, any delayed registration (beyond 21 days) requires written permission from the registrar and may involve a late fee or affidavit.

• PICME Registration:

  • Although not governed by a central statute, PICME is an administrative initiative of the Tamil Nadu Public Health Act, 1939.

  • The Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (DPHPM) oversees the implementation and mandates all pregnancies in Tamil Nadu be registered in the PICME system for better maternal care and infant welfare tracking.

Why is PICME Registration Important?

• Ensures the health and well-being of the mother and baby.

• Offers access to government maternity schemes such as Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy Maternity Benefit Scheme.

• Required for birth certificate issuance.

• Helps in maintaining accurate maternal and child health records for public health planning.

How to Register for PICME

You can register for PICME in four simple ways:

- Online Self-Registration

• Visit https://picme.tn.gov.in

• Click on “Pre-registration by Public”.

• Fill in details such as name, address, Aadhaar number, expected delivery date, and contact info.

• After submission, an acknowledgment along with a Pre-registration ID will be generated.

• A Village Health Nurse (VHN) will contact you for verification.

- Through Village Health Nurse (VHN)

• You can also directly approach the local VHN in your area.

• She will assist in filling the form and uploading documents.

• You will receive the RCH ID after verification.

- E-Seva Centers or Government Hospitals

• Visit nearby e-seva centers or public health centers.

• They will help you complete the PICME registration.

- Call PICME Helpline

• Dial 102 (24x7) or visit local PHC centers for assistance.

- Documents Required for PICME

• Aadhaar Card of the pregnant woman

• Address proof (ration card/electricity bill/etc.)

• Passport-size photo

• Marriage Certificate (if available)

• Doctor’s certificate or scan report confirming pregnancy

Steps to Apply for Birth Certificate in Tamil Nadu

Once the baby is born and PICME registration is complete, follow these steps:

Step 1: Inform the Birth

• If the baby is born in a hospital, the hospital will register the birth with the local authority automatically.

• If at home, the parents or relatives must inform the Village Administrative Officer (VAO) or the local birth registrar within 21 days.

Step 2: Verification of RCH ID

• The RCH ID generated through PICME must be linked during the birth registration process.

• This ensures the data is updated in the public health system.

Step 3: Apply for Birth Certificate

• Visit https://www.etownpanchayat.com for rural areas or respective Municipality/Corporation websites for urban areas.

• Search by baby name or mother's name, RCH ID, date of birth, and hospital name.

• Download the digitally signed birth certificate (if available).

• For a physical copy, visit the local birth registrar’s office.

Documents Required for Birth Certificate

• RCH ID / PICME Number

• Hospital birth slip / discharge summary

• Identity proof of parents

• Address proof

• Aadhaar Card (optional but recommended)

Timeline and Fees

• Within 21 days: No fee.

• After 21 days but within 30 days: Small late fee.

• Beyond 30 days: Affidavit and approval from the area’s Birth Registrar/Executive Officer is required.

FAQs on PICME and Birth Certificate

- Is PICME registration mandatory in Tamil Nadu?

Yes, PICME registration is mandatory for pregnant women in Tamil Nadu. It ensures better health care and is also essential for obtaining the child’s birth certificate.

- Can I apply for a birth certificate without PICME?

No, PICME registration and a valid RCH ID are now compulsory in Tamil Nadu for birth certificate registration.

- What is the time limit to register a birth?

As per Section 8 of the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969, birth must be reported within 21 days from the date of birth.

- What if the hospital has not registered the birth?

You can manually report the birth to your local panchayat office, municipality, or corporation office. Carry the hospital discharge slip and your RCH ID.

- Is Aadhaar needed for PICME or birth certificate?

Aadhaar is not mandatory but helps in identity verification and accessing future government schemes.

- How long does it take to receive the birth certificate?

If everything is in order, you can get the certificate within 7–15 days after submission.

Conclusion

Both PICME registration and birth certification are essential steps that support the government’s objective of ensuring safe motherhood and legal identity for every child born. While the system may seem technical at first, Tamil Nadu’s robust digital infrastructure makes the process seamless if you follow the correct steps. Register early, keep all documents ready, and seek help from local health officers whenever needed.