How to Apply for Orphan Certificate

Disclaimer

The Orphan Certificate is governed by State-specific rules, notifications, and departmental procedures.

There is no uniform national law or online system for issuing Orphan Certificates for reservation purposes.

Any application form or procedural reference (including those based on Delhi or any other State) is provided only for illustrative purposes to explain the general nature of information required.

Orphan Certificate

Procedure, Eligibility, Benefits, and Application Process

The Orphan Certificate is an official document issued by State/UT authorities to certify that a child qualifies as an orphan under applicable Government rules.

This certificate is required to claim horizontal reservation benefits for orphan children in Government and Non-Government services, wherever such reservation is notified by the State.

Purpose of the Orphan Certificate

The certificate serves as legal proof of orphan status for availing benefits such as:

• Horizontal reservation in services
• Educational and employment-related concessions
• Welfare schemes notified by State Governments

In most States, reservation benefits are denied without this certificate, regardless of actual circumstances.

Who Is Considered an Orphan (General Criteria)

While exact definitions vary by State, commonly eligible children include:

• Children whose both biological or adoptive parents have died
• Children declared or treated as orphans under State welfare rules
• Orphan children residing in:
• Government-run homes, or
• Voluntary / recognised private orphanages within the State

Some States additionally prescribe:

• A time condition linked to the child’s age
• Residence or domicile requirements

Benefits of the Certificate

Where notified, the certificate provides:

• Horizontal reservation (for example, 5%) in:
• Government services
• Non-Government services covered by State policy
• Recognition as an eligible beneficiary under State welfare frameworks

Horizontal reservation applies across categories, not within them.

Application Mode Across India

There is no uniform online application facility for Orphan Certificates in India.

Even in States with advanced e-District portals, this certificate is usually processed offline due to mandatory inquiry and verification.

General Offline Application Procedure (Followed in Most States)

Application is submitted to:

• District Magistrate (DM) Office, or

• Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Office, or

• District Probation Officer (DPO) / Social Welfare Office

Required documents are attached

• Department conducts field inquiry and verification

• Recommendation is recorded (often by the DPO)

• Certificate is issued by an officer not below the rank prescribed by State rules

• Certificate is used to claim reservation benefits

Documents Commonly Required

Document requirements vary but generally include:

• Aadhaar card of the orphan child
• Permanent residence / domicile certificate
• Death certificates of both parents
• Guardian details (if applicable)
• Affidavit or declaration (as prescribed)

Issuing Authorities (Indicative)

Depending on the State/UT:

• Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM)
• District Magistrate (DM)
• Revenue Officer
• Social Welfare / Women & Child Development Department

Validity

• Usually valid until circumstances change
• Some schemes or recruitments may require a recently issued certificate

Always check scheme-specific conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is this certificate available online anywhere in India?

In most States, no. The process is offline.

2. Why is the process offline?

Because orphan status requires strict field verification and departmental inquiry.

3. Is one deceased parent sufficient?

Usually no. Most States require both parents to be deceased, subject to rules.

4. Can children in private orphanages apply?

Yes, if recognised under State guidelines.

5. Is this certificate valid across India?

It is issued by a State authority. Acceptance depends on the scheme or service.

6. Can the certificate be cancelled later?

Yes, if false information or misrepresentation is found.