Terming the law passed on December 7, 2004 and amended in 2006 as fundamental right of children, the minister said it would be implemented in two years.

He was speaking as chief guest at a dissemination session titled 'Comparative study of reform of legislation related to birth registration in selected Asian countries-context Bangladesh' jointly organised by Bangladesh National Women Lawyers' Association (BNWLA) and Plan Bangladesh, at the Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB) auditorium in the city.

Presenting a research paper on the occasion, Advocate Farhana Jesmine, a researcher of BNWLA, said "In many developing countries, significant portions of the population do not have proof of identity due to absence of an inclusive and effective birth registration system."

The research conducted in six divisional cities reveals that 72 per cent of the population are well aware about the Birth and Death Registration Act 2004 while 28 per cent are fully unaware of the law.

However, the study also says, none made any birth and death registration under the new law.

A total of 79.3 per cent people said the role of the ward commissioners is crucial in implementing the law, the study reveals.

Speaking as a special guest, Edward Thomas Espey, country director of Plan Bangladesh, said "Passing a law is not enough, rather it should be implemented following specific process to ensure the identity of every individual in future."

The speakers suggested media campaign, coordination at all levels and adequate logistic supports for implementation of the law.

BNWLA Executive Director Advocate Salma Ali also spoke on the occasion.