India Death Records Index

India’s death records are an important resource for genealogists researching family histories in this diverse and historically rich country. Civil registration of deaths began in 1969 under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, though earlier records can be found in colonial-era documents, church registers, and local administrative records dating back to the 19th century during British rule.

Death records typically provide details such as the deceased’s name, date and place of death, age, cause of death, and sometimes information about family members. However, record-keeping varies across states and regions, with rural areas often having less comprehensive documentation. In many cases, supplementary sources such as temple and mosque records, newspaper obituaries, and cemetery inscriptions help fill gaps in genealogical research.

India’s vast history, shaped by its ancient civilizations, colonial rule, and waves of migration, is reflected in these records. The British Raj (1858–1947) kept more formal records in certain areas, particularly for European and Anglo-Indian populations. Many Indian families also maintain oral genealogies, particularly among communities with strong ancestral traditions.

For genealogists, India’s death records—combined with alternative sources—are crucial for tracing lineage, preserving family heritage, and understanding the nation’s rich cultural and historical evolution.