Aadhaar–PAN and mark-sheets name change delays baffle applicants:Only 1 MP govt press issues 250 gazettes monthly against 1,200 applications

Changing names in official documents like Aadhaar, PAN, passports, or mark sheets requires a gazette notification in Madhya Pradesh. However, residents are increasingly facing delays, with notifications taking 45–60 days instead of the expected 7 days. The Government Press in Bhopal, the only office responsible for issuing gazette notifications in the state, handles all applications physically despite the availability of online submission. A shortage of staff exacerbates the problem, while applications have increased fivefold over the last five years. Application process and costs Although the gazette can be downloaded in certified form from the official e-Gazette portal (egazette.gov.in), many still require physical submission for official purposes. Currently, the Bhopal press has only two DTP operators, down from eight previously. Earlier, offices in Gwalior, Indore, and Rewa also handled notifications but have gradually closed, putting pressure on the central Bhopal office. Cases requiring gazette notifications Residents voice frustration GP Katia, Deputy Controller of Government Press, said, “The delays are mainly due to staff shortages. Increasing manpower will help process more gazettes efficiently.”