Child Adoption Law in India
Adoption is a noble way to grow a family and offer a child a loving home. In India, adoption is governed by well-defined legal procedures to protect the interests of both the child and the adoptive parents. This guide by Advocate Sagar Sharma from Bharat Ki Adalat Law Firm explains the Child Adoption Law in India—from eligibility to the legal process—ensuring a smooth and lawful adoption journey.
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CARA Guidelines
The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) is the governing body under India’s Ministry of Women and Child Development for child adoption. CARA regulates in-country and inter-country adoptions to ensure transparency and legal compliance. The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 provides the legal framework for adoptions in India.
CARA has introduced an online system for prospective adoptive parents (PAPs). Here, PAPs can register, upload documents, and track their applications. This system helps streamline the adoption process while minimizing potential misuse. It’s essential to understand CARA’s guidelines thoroughly before proceeding with adoption.
Eligibility for Adoption in India
To adopt a child legally in India, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria as outlined in the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015:
- Age:
- Single parent: 25–45 years (child below 4 years).
- Married couple: Combined age not exceeding 90 years.
- Marital Status:
- Married couples must have a stable relationship of at least two years.
- Single women can adopt any gender; single men can adopt only boys.
- Health & Financial Stability: PAPs should be physically, mentally, and emotionally sound with stable financial resources.
Eligibility may differ under religious laws (e.g., Hindus under the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956) and others under the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890.
Legal Process of Adoption in India
Follow these steps for a legally recognized adoption in India:
- Online Registration: Register through CARA’s portal and select a nearby SAA.
- Home Study Report (HSR): A social worker evaluates your home and parenting readiness.
- Child Matching: The SAA matches you with a child based on preferences and availability.
- Acceptance: On accepting the child, sign the Child Study Report and Medical Report.
- Legal Proceedings: File an adoption petition in court for final approval.
- Final Order & Follow-up: After the court grants the adoption, post-placement follow-ups continue for 1–2 years.
Conclusion
Child Adoption Law in India. Adopting a child is a meaningful decision backed by a robust legal system in India. Whether you’re a couple or a single parent, following CARA guidelines and consulting legal experts like Advocate Sagar Sharma from Bharat Ki Adalat Law Firm ensures a smooth and ethical adoption process. Let legal expertise guide you in giving a child a better future.
If you want to know the child adoption process in India, contact Advocate Sharma now for the best advice.
Contact Us: 9999019695
Website: https://advocatesagarsharma.com
Address: Adv Sagar Sharma Law Office Near Badami House Sector -1 Bisrakh Greater Noida West Uttar Pradesh
