Maharashtra Government Waives Rs 500 Stamp Duty on Affidavits, Easing Burden on Students and Citizens

Mumbai, 5th March 2025: In a move aimed at simplifying bureaucratic procedures and providing financial relief to citizens, the Maharashtra government has scrapped the ₹500 stamp duty previously required for affidavits submitted to government offices. The decision, announced by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, is expected to benefit lakhs of students and residents across the state.

Affidavits are commonly required for obtaining essential documents such as caste, income, residence, non-criminal, and nationality certificates. Earlier, the stamp duty associated with these documents could add up to thousands of rupees, especially for students applying for multiple certificates after 10th and 12th board exams. With this waiver, families could save anywhere between ₹3,000 to ₹4,000, significantly easing their financial burden.

Simplified Application Process
In addition to the cost savings, the government has also introduced a hassle-free process for obtaining these certificates. Instead of paying for stamp papers and navigating cumbersome paperwork, applicants can now submit a self-attested application on plain paper at their local tehsil office. This change is expected to reduce delays and improve efficiency, benefiting millions of people who rely on these documents for educational and employment purposes.

“This decision will provide direct relief to students and their families, particularly during crucial academic transitions like board exam results,” said Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule. “By eliminating the ₹500 stamp duty, we are ensuring that financial constraints do not become a barrier to accessing essential government documents.”

Timely Relief for Students
The announcement comes at a crucial time, as 10th and 12th board exams are currently underway. Once results are declared, students often rush to obtain mandatory certificates for college admissions and job applications. The waiver is expected to speed up the process and reduce financial stress, especially for families from economically weaker sections.

This policy change has been widely appreciated by students, parents, and educational institutions. Many see it as a progressive step that reflects the government’s commitment to reducing bureaucratic hurdles and making public services more accessible. With the stamp duty waiver now in effect, students and citizens can look forward to a simpler, more affordable process for obtaining essential documents.