The father of an illegitimate child shall be bound to pay the State Department of Health and Social Services all charges it incurs, for maintenance, or otherwise, of such child while under 18 years of age, in accordance with Chapter 28 of Title 31. It may recover the same as any other debt, or by means of any bond of indemnity, given to secure it, under §§ 1326 [repealed] and 1327 [repealed] of this title.