Law Ministry Increases Notary Limits in Four States

To ensure wider access to essential legal documentation services, the Ministry of Law and Justice has notified the Notaries (Amendment) Rules, 2025, significantly increasing the maximum number of notaries in Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Nagaland. The move aims to meet the surging demand for notary services due to expanding administrative units and growing population pressures. The notification, issued under G.S.R. 763(E) on October 17, 2025, modifies the existing Notaries Rules, 1956, by exercising powers granted under the Notaries Act, 1952.

What the Amendment Entails

Key Changes in Notary Limits

The amendment directly increases the sanctioned strength of notaries in the four states as follows,

• Gujarat: Raised from 2,900 to 6,000
• Tamil Nadu: Increased from 2,500 to 3,500
• Rajasthan: Expanded from 2,000 to 3,000
• Nagaland: Doubled from 200 to 400

These changes come into effect immediately upon their publication in the Official Gazette.

Legal Basis

• The amendment is framed under Section 15 of the Notaries Act, 1952, which empowers the central government to revise rules governing notarial appointments and practices.
• The Notaries Rules, 1956, serve as the core regulation guiding the licensing, responsibilities, and conduct of notaries across India.

Why the Amendment Was Needed

The decision was prompted by official requests from the respective State governments, citing,

• Population growth and urban expansion
• Increase in administrative divisions like districts, tehsils, and talukas
• Rising demand for legal attestation, affidavits, and documentation
• Need to ease access to justice, especially in semi-urban and rural areas

By boosting the notary cap, the Ministry aims to decentralize legal services and reduce delays in obtaining certified documents, which are often essential for property transactions, court proceedings, banking, and visa applications.

Broader Significance

Enhancing Legal Infrastructure

The expansion is part of a broader effort to strengthen grassroots legal infrastructure. With more notaries available, citizens can access services such as,

• Document authentication
• Attestation of affidavits and powers of attorney
• Certification of copies and translations
• Verification of identity and declarations

This is especially beneficial in remote regions where legal services are limited.

Supporting Ease of Living and Doing Business

Reliable notary services are integral to everyday life and commercial activity. Increasing their availability,

• Reduces administrative burden on courts and legal offices
• Supports ease of doing business, especially for SMEs and local entrepreneurs
• Improves India’s justice delivery system by ensuring timely access to certified documentation