The Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh, known as Vanshavali Praman Patra, is a vital legal document issued by the Revenue Department. It details your family lineage, including relationships and generations, and serves as official proof for inheritance, property disputes, and government entitlements.
In Pithoragarh, where joint family properties and land records are common across hill and plain districts, this certificate is crucial for updating land records or claiming benefits under schemes like the Pithoragarh Land Revenue Code.
Whether in Pithoragarh’s municipal wards or rural tehsils of Almora, it simplifies heirship verification. This guide outlines eligibility, application methods, documents, fees, validity, and actionable tips to complete the process independently.
What is the Vanshavali Certificate in Pithoragarh?
The Vanshavali Certificate is a certified family-pedigree document prepared by relatives (or the applicant) and attested by revenue authorities (e.g., the Tahsildar or the concerned sub-divisional officer) in Pithoragarh. It lists:
- Names and relationships of family members
- Dates of birth/death
- Lineage structure across generations
It is issued under the relevant land/revenue laws of Pithoragarh, providing evidentiary value in succession matters, helping distinguish rightful heirs and avoid litigation. In general, such certificates are used for lineage verification across India.
Official portal of Pithoragarh for e-services: e-Services Pithoragarh (eservices.uk.gov.in)
Who Can Apply for Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh?
Eligibility revolves around family representation:
- Family Head: The eldest or nominated member may lead the application.
- Legal Heirs: Children, spouses, siblings of the deceased who need to claim succession.
- Guardians: For minors, a court-authorised guardian may apply.
- Blood Relatives / Descendants: Any direct descendant with an affidavit and supporting proof.
Applications are open to residents of Pithoragarh; no formal caste or income criteria apply specifically for the certificate (though other benefits might have such criteria).
Key Uses of the Vanshavali Certificate in Pithoragarh
This certificate supports various administrative and legal needs:
- Property Inheritance: Verifies heirs for property/mutation when land records need updating.
- Government Schemes: Useful when applying for state/subsidy/pension schemes where lineage is relevant.
- Caste/Reservation Verification: Aids in establishing family structure for claims.
- Bank and Insurance Claims: Assists in succession matters (e.g., policy payout, account transfer).
- Court Proceedings: Evidence in family suits, probate or succession disputes.
- Record Corrections: Helps update registers (e.g., family register, Aadhaar, etc.).
Required Information for the Family Tree Application in Pithoragarh
Preparing details accurately is important:
- Full name, father’s/husband’s name, sex (M/F), date of birth for applicant.
- Dates of birth/death, relationships covering 2-3 generations.
- Residential address and contact info for verification.
- Death date of deceased (if applicable).
- Recent passport-size photograph of applicant.
- A simple pedigree/family tree chart to accompany the form—accuracy prevents rejections.
Cross-check with existing records (e.g., family register) to ensure consistency and avoid spelling mistakes.
Step-by-Step Family Tree Application Process in Pithoragarh
Offline Application via Tahsildar / Tehsil Office
- Prepare the Pedigree: Draft the family tree on non-judicial stamp paper as required and attach a sworn affidavit.
- Notarisation: Visit a notary public to get the affidavit/pedigree notarised.
- Submit Application: Visit the local Tehsil / Tahsildar / Lok Seva Kendra, submit form with pedigree, affidavit and proofs.
- Verification: A revenue officer will conduct local inquiry (may include house-visit), verification typically takes several days.
- Pay Fee & Collect Certificate: Pay the prescribed fee at submission; after approval collect the attested certificate (may take 15-30 days).
This method is ideal for rural tehsils like Almora.
Online Application (if available in your district)
- Visit the Pithoragarh e-District / State services portal: e-District Pithoragarh (National Government Services Portal)
- Register/login, select relevant Revenue service (if “Family Tree Certificate” or “Vanshavali Certificate” is listed).
- Upload documents (notarised pedigree, affidavit, identity/address proofs).
- Pay fee online.
- Track application status; download/collect certificate post-verification.
Check district availability; offline fallback for hill areas.
Required Documents for Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh
You’ll generally need:
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID for applicant (and possibly other members).
- Address Proof: Utility bill, ration card, etc.
- Relationship Proofs: Birth certificates, death certificates (if applicable), marriage registration.
- Affidavit: Sworn on required stamp paper, affirming the lineage.
- Pedigree Chart: Notarised family tree on stamp paper.
- Application Form: From Tehsil or download via portal.
Status Check & Download
Online: Log into e-Services → Enter reference number → View progress. Download signed PDF post-approval.
Offline: Visit Tehsil with receipt for verbal update; collect physical certificate.
Office Locations & Contacts in Pithoragarh
Apply at your local Tahsildar or Lok Seva Kendra. Find contacts:
- State HQ: Revenue Department, Secretariat, Subhash Road, Pithoragarh. Phone: 0135-2669221, 2669415 | Email: Contact via eservices.uk.gov.in.
- District-Wise: Visit Pithoragarh District Portals → Select district → “Directory” → “Public Utilities” → “Municipalities” for Tahsildar details.
For example:
- Pithoragarh District: Tahsildar Office, Pithoragarh. Check portal for contact.
- Almora: Rural Tehsil Office. Use “Directory” for details.
Bring originals for on-spot verification.
Sample Family Tree Format for Pithoragarh
[Great-Grandfather] (1900–1970)
|
| m. [Great-Grandmother] (1905–1980)
|
---------------------------------
| |
[Grandfather] (1925–2000) [Uncle] (1930–2010)
| m. [Grandmother] (1930–2015) | m. [Aunt-in-Law] (1935–2012)
| |
------------------------- ----------------
| | | |
[Father] (1955–) [Aunt] (1960–) [Cousin1] (1965–) [Cousin2] (1970–)
| m. [Mother] (1960–) | m. [Cousin2’s Spouse] (1960–)
| |
--------------------- ----------------
| | | |
[You] (1985–) [Sister] (1990–) [Nephew] (1995–) [Niece] (2000–)
| m. [Your Spouse] (1988–) |
| |
------------------ ----------------
| | | |
[Son] (2015–) [Daughter] (2018–) [Grandnephew] (2020–) [Grandniece] (2023–)
Sample Vanshavali Affidavit for Pithoragarh
AFFIDAVIT
I, _______________________________, son/daughter of _______________________________,
aged ___ years, residing at ____________________________________________________,
do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as under:
1. That I am applying for Vanshavali Praman Patra.
2. That the attached family tree is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
3. That all members listed are my legal family as per records.
4. That there are no disputes regarding the lineage.
DEPONENT
Verification: I verify that the above is true.
Place: ___________ Signature: ____________________
Date: ___________
Witness 1: ____________________ Witness 2: ____________________
(Notary Public Seal)
Fees and Processing Time for Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh
| Component | Amount | Notes |
| Application Fee | ₹150 | Standard estimate (verify locally) |
| Stamp Paper | ₹100 | For affidavit/family tree document |
| Notary Fee | ₹50-100 | Varies by district/notary |
| Total Estimated | ₹300-350 | Excludes travel/extra verification |
Processing Time: Typically 15-30 days for offline application; if online service available, possibly 15-25 days.
Validity and Renewal of Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh
- The certificate is valid lifelong as a record of lineage once issued.
- However, if family events change (new birth, death, adoption) you may need to re-apply or update the certificate by submitting fresh proof, there is no specific “renewal” mechanism everywhere.
- No separate “renewal fee” beyond standard submission (unless local policy states otherwise).
Legal Implications and Guidance in Pithoragarh
- While Pithoragarh now has its own inheritance reforms (e.g., the new Uniform Civil Code for succession in Pithoragarh) which impact inheritance law in intestate cases.
- The Family Tree Certificate functions as prime evidence of genealogical structure and heirship, but does not override a valid will, or court judgment.
- For joint family property or ancestral land, it helps with smoother succession under the applicable law (Hindu Succession Act or other applicable law).
- If disputes arise (multiple heirs, contesting claims), revenue authorities or courts may still get involved.
- NRIs or applicants outside Pithoragarh may apply through the local representative using Power of Attorney, but local verification will still be required.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Process in Pithoragarh
- DIY Preparation: Download forms from the official Pithoragarh portal and complete your documents – avoid unnecessary agent costs.
- Cross-Check Records: Verify name spellings, birth/death dates and relationships with existing records (e.g., family register, land records) to avoid delays.
- Timing Strategy: Visit Tehsil/Lok Seva Kendra mid-week (less crowd) for smoother submission.
- Digital Backup: Scan notarised pedigree and affidavit; store in DigiLocker or cloud for future use.
- Ensure All Heirs Sign: If multiple heirs exist, make sure they sign affidavit/consent to avoid future disputes.
- Know Local Variation: Fee structure or process may vary by district (hill vs plains), call local Tehsildar for confirmation.
- Track Application: Use e-District portal (if available) to track status.
- Keep Acknowledgement Slip: On submission you’ll get a receipt – retain it until certificate is issued.
Trusted Legal Experts for Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh
Obtaining a Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh often requires careful documentation and verification. One important aspect is Gazette Publication, especially in cases of name changes due to adoption. A Gazette Publication makes the name change legally recognized and publicly acknowledged. Legal experts play a crucial role in guiding individuals through this process, ensuring all paperwork is correctly filed, deadlines are met, and the certificate is issued without delays. Engaging an experienced lawyer can simplify the procedure and avoid potential legal complications.
1. Advocate Ramesh Thakur
- Services: Expert assistance in Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh, including documentation and verification.
- Address: 14 Rani Bagh, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, 262501
- Contact: +91-8588887480
- Qualification: LLB from University of Delhi
- Experience: 12 years
- Description: Advocate Ramesh Thakur specializes in handling Family Tree Certificates, providing step-by-step guidance for legal documentation and ensuring timely Gazette Publication for name changes due to adoption.
2. Advocate Priya Joshi
- Services: Legal support for Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh, name change notifications, and document verification.
- Address: 7 Shivpuri Colony, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, 262502
- Contact: +91-8588887480
- Qualification: LLB from National Law University, Jodhpur
- Experience: 9 years
- Description: Advocate Priya Joshi has extensive experience in Family Tree Certificate matters, helping clients navigate the legal requirements and ensuring smooth Gazette Publication.
3. Advocate Anil Rawat
- Services: Comprehensive services for Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh, adoption-related name changes, and documentation.
- Address: 22 Haridwar Road, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, 262503
- Contact: +91-8588887480
- Qualification: LLB from Allahabad University
- Experience: 11 years
- Description: Advocate Anil Rawat assists families in securing their Family Tree Certificates with precision, ensuring all legal protocols for Gazette Publication are properly followed.
4. Advocate Sunita Chauhan
- Services: Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh, legal consultation for adoption-related name changes, and paperwork handling.
- Address: 9 Vijay Nagar, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, 262504
- Contact: +91-8588887480
- Qualification: LLB from University of Lucknow
- Experience: 8 years
- Description: Advocate Sunita Chauhan is known for her expertise in family documentation laws, guiding clients smoothly through the process of obtaining Family Tree Certificates and ensuring proper Gazette Publication.
5. Advocate Mohit Pant
- Services: Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh, legal advice for adoption and name change procedures.
- Address: 31 Gandhi Chowk, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, 262505
- Contact: +91-8588887480
- Qualification: LLB from University of Mumbai
- Experience: 10 years
- Description: Advocate Mohit Pant provides professional assistance for Family Tree Certificates, with a strong focus on legal compliance and efficient processing of Gazette Publication for name changes.
Concluding Family Tree Certificate Guide in Pithoragarh
The Family Tree Certificate fortifies your family’s legal and genealogical standing in Pithoragarh, from hill-village joint families to city apartments. Whether you use the offline method via Tehsil/Tahsildar or check for online service via e-District portals, you can secure it with minimal hassle if you prepare well.
Gather your documents, verify your facts in advance, and apply promptly to unlock its benefits. For official information visit: Pithoragarh Registration / e-Services
Family Tree Certificate Service by ezylegal in Other Districts of Uttarakhand
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh
Q1. How to apply for Family Tree Certificate offline in Pithoragarh?
Ans1. Visit the Tehsildar/Tehsil office or Lok Seva Kendra → Notarise the family tree on stamp paper → Submit the form + documents → Pay the fee (approx. ₹150) → Undergo verification → Collect the attested certificate (approx. 15-30 days).
Q2. What documents are required for Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh?
Ans2. Aadhaar/ PAN/ Voter ID for applicant and relevant members → Address proof → Birth / death / marriage certificates → Notarised affidavit on stamp paper → Application form.
Q3. What is the validity of the Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh?
Ans3. Valid for life once issued; you need to re-apply or update only when there are new events (births, deaths, adoptions) requiring changes.
Q4. What is the fee for Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh?
Ans4. Approx. ₹150 application fee + ~₹100 stamp paper + ₹50-100 notary fee. Total ~ ₹300-350. (Verify locally)
Q5. How many days to get the certificate?
Ans5. Typically 15-30 days offline; if online service is available in your district, possibly 15-25 days.
Q6. Is the Family Tree Certificate required for land-record mutation in Pithoragarh?
Ans6. Yes – it helps show heirship, which is often needed when properties are transferred or when mutation of records takes place.
Q7. Can I apply online for the certificate in Pithoragarh?
Ans7. Possibly – via the Pithoragarh e-District/State services portal, if your district has enabled “Family Tree Certificate” as a service.
Q8. What is the difference between Family Tree Certificate vs Legal Heir Certificate in Pithoragarh?
Ans8. Family Tree = full lineage / family pedigree (multiple generations) for the family as a whole; Legal Heir Certificate = identifies current legal heirs of a deceased person for asset claim.
Q9. Is a Family Tree Certificate needed for caste certificate/reservation claims in Pithoragarh?
Ans9. Yes, when family lineage and relationships are relevant, this certificate strengthens your application for reservations or caste/benefit eligibility.
Q10. How to correct errors in the Family Tree Certificate Pithoragarh?
Ans10. Re-apply at the Tehsildar/Tehsil with proof of the change (birth/death certificate etc.), pay applicable fee, and collect the updated certificate.
Q11. Can an NRI apply for Family Tree Certificate in Pithoragarh?
Ans11. Yes, through a Power of Attorney, a local representative may apply; applicant’s passport/Aadhaar may be accepted, verify at local office.
Q12. What if there are disputes in the application for a Family Tree Certificate?
Ans12. Ensure joint affidavit of all concerned heirs; if dispute persists, the matter may be escalated to sub-divisional or revenue court levels.
Q13. Need help with the application?
Ans13. You can engage document-service providers, but self-application is feasible and saves cost if you prepare correctly.



