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Adoption is a noble act that provides a loving family to children who are orphaned, abandoned, or surrendered. In India, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) Guidelines govern the adoption process. This article aims to provide an overview of adoption under CARA and the relevant laws.
To adopt a child under CARA, prospective adoptive parents must meet certain eligibility criteria. These include:
- Being a citizen of India
- Being in good physical and mental health
- Having a stable income and financial resources
- Being between the ages of 25 and 55 years (for a single parent) or 25 and 50 years (for a couple)
- Having a maximum age difference of 110 years between the youngest parent and the child
The adoption process under CARA involves several steps:
1. Registration: Prospective adoptive parents register online on the CARINGS portal and upload required documents.
2. Home Study Report: A social worker or counselor conducts a home study report to assess the suitability of the prospective adoptive parents.
3. Pre-Adoption Counselling: Prospective adoptive parents undergo pre-adoption counselling to prepare them for adoption.
4. Child Referral: CARA refers a child to the prospective adoptive parents based on their preferences and suitability.
5. Adoption Order: After the child is placed with the prospective adoptive parents, they apply for an adoption order from the court.
Under CARA, there are two types of adoption:
- In-country Adoption: Adoption of a child by Indian citizens residing in India.
- Inter-country Adoption: Adoption of a child by foreign citizens or Indian citizens residing abroad.
CARA has issued guidelines to ensure the best interests of the child and to regulate the adoption process. These guidelines cover aspects such as:
- Child Adoption Resource Information and Guidance System (CARINGS): An online platform for registration, tracking, and monitoring of adoption cases.
- Specialised Adoption Agencies (SAAs): Agencies that provide care and support to children and facilitate adoption.
- Adoption Process: Procedures for adoption, including registration, home study report, pre-adoption counselling, child referral, and adoption order.
Adoption under CARA is a complex process that requires careful consideration and adherence to the relevant laws and guidelines. Prospective adoptive parents must be aware of the eligibility criteria, adoption process, and CARA guidelines to ensure a smooth and successful adoption journey. By providing a loving family to children in need, adoption can be a life-changing experience for both the child and the adoptive parents.