Thiruvananthapuram: In a major step to bring relief to the citizens, the state government on Wednesday decided to simplify the procedures for attestation of certificates.

In the case of birth certificates, mark sheets, degree certificates and other relevant documents, self- attestation would do. But the original has to be produced at the time of verification of the credentials.

The cabinet decided to allow self-attestation on certificates attached along with applications submitted to various government departments.

The decision is based on the recommendations of Administrative Reforms Committee appointed by the state government. However, applicants will be allowed to self-attest their certificates except in cases where it is a statutory requirement.

At the cabinet briefing, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said the decision would come into effect immediately and the government order would follow soon.

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