How to Publish Name Change in the Gazette of India?

March 18, 2025

Changing your name is a significant decision, whether it’s due to marriage, personal preference, or religious reasons. In India, once you’ve legally changed your name, it’s essential to publish the change in the Gazette of India to make it official and widely recognized. This blog will guide you through the process of publishing your name change in the Gazette of India, step by step.

Why Publish Your Name Change in the Gazette?

Publishing your name change in the Gazette of India serves as legal proof of your new name. It is particularly important for:

Updating official documents like your passport, Aadhaar card, PAN card, and bank accounts.
Ensuring your new name is recognized by government authorities, educational institutions, and employers.
Avoiding legal complications in the future.

Who Needs to Publish Their Name Change in the Gazette?

While it’s not mandatory for everyone, certain individuals are required to publish their name change in the Gazette:

Government employees.
Individuals changing their name after marriage, divorce, or adoption.
People changing their name for religious or personal reasons.

Steps to Publish Name Change in the Gazette of India

The process of publishing your name change in the Gazette involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Required Documents

Before starting the process, gather the following documents:

Name Change Affidavit: Draft an affidavit stating your old name, new name, and the reason for the change. This must be printed on a non-judicial stamp paper of ₹10 or ₹20, depending on your state’s requirements.
Notarized Affidavit: Get the affidavit notarized by a notary public.
Identity Proof: A copy of your Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID.
Address Proof: A copy of your utility bill, ration card, or rental agreement.
Passport-Sized Photographs: Two recent photographs.
Newspaper Publication: Copies of two newspapers (one local and one national) where your name change advertisement has been published.
Application Form: A request letter or application form addressed to the Controller of Publications, Department of Publication.

Step 2: Publish an Advertisement in Newspapers

Publish your name change advertisement in:

One local newspaper (in the regional language).
One national newspaper (in English).

The advertisement should include:

Your old name.
Your new name.
Your father’s/husband’s name.
Your residential address.

Keep copies of the published advertisements for submission.

Step 3: Submit the Documents to the Department of Publication

Once you have all the documents, submit them to the Controller of Publications, Government of India. You can do this in two ways:

In-Person: Visit the office of the Department of Publication in Delhi, Kolkata, or Chennai.
By Post: Send the documents via registered post to the following address:

The Controller of Publications

Department of Publication

Civil Lines, Delhi – 110054

Step 4: Pay the Required Fees

The fee for publishing a name change in the Gazette varies depending on whether you’re a government employee or a private individual. As of 2023, the fees are:

Government Employees: ₹700–₹900.
Private Individuals: ₹2300–₹2500.

Payment can be made via demand draft (DD) drawn in favor of the Controller of Publications, Delhi.

Step 5: Wait for Publication

After submitting the documents and fees, the Gazette office will process your request. It usually takes 4–6 weeks for the name change to be published in the Gazette. Once published, you’ll receive a copy of the Gazette notification.

Step 6: Update Your Name in Official Records

After receiving the Gazette notification, update your name in all official documents, including:

Aadhaar card
PAN card
Passport
Bank accounts
Driving license
Educational certificates

Important Tips

Accuracy: Ensure all details in the affidavit and newspaper advertisements are accurate to avoid rejection.
Newspaper Selection: Choose widely circulated newspapers for the advertisement to ensure visibility.
Keep Copies: Always keep multiple copies of the Gazette notification for future use.
Timely Updates: Update your name in all official records promptly after receiving the Gazette notification.

Conclusion

Publishing your name change in the Gazette of India is a crucial step to ensure your new name is legally recognized. While the process may seem lengthy, it’s straightforward if you follow the steps outlined above. By publishing your name change in the Gazette, you can avoid future legal hassles and ensure a smooth transition to your new identity.

If you have any doubts or need assistance, consider consulting a legal expert or visiting the official website of the Department of Publication for more details.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific legal advice or updates on the process, consult a legal professional or the official Gazette of India website.

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