January 1 marks mass birthday in Afghanistan In the absence of birth certificates or official records, many Afghans have long used the seasons or historical events to help determine their age. But the explosion of social media networks and the growing demand for passports and visas have forced Afghans to pick a day -- any day. January 1 has become a common choice, although the date is more about practicality than parties. In recent years Afghan hospitals in major cities have started issuing newborn babies with birth certificates -- something previous generations lack. IMAGES