Quick Navigation
What is Adoption?
Adoption is a process whereby a person assumes the parenting of another, usually a child, from that person's biological or legal parent or parents, and, in so doing, permanently transfers all rights and responsibilities, along with filiation, from the biological parent or parents.
In essence, adoption is a legal process that creates a family bond between adoptive parents and a child, granting them all the rights and responsibilities of biological parents.
Why Adopt?
People choose to adopt for a variety of reasons. While most people arrive at adoption when the biological route does not work, for others, it stems from the desire to have a mixed or a blended family option.
Today, we see a growing trend towards adoption as a first choice to start a family, which is heartwarming. It is becoming a common alternative to starting a family and is no longer a closeted word or a subject of contention.
By opting for adoption, we can provide a stable and nurturing environment, which ultimately leads to immense gratification and fulfilment for both the parent and the child. The joy is limitless, and the journey is indescribable.
The Joy of Adoption
There is a sense of awe and euphoria as one begins the journey of parenting with adoption. As we traverse this path, unravelling the unknown, we realize that nurturing a child is the core or focal point of any parenting journey, regardless of the route one has chosen.
Adoption Today in India
Current adoption statistics do not reflect an encouraging trend. Understanding the current landscape helps prospective parents make informed decisions.
| Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| In-country adoptions (2015-2016) | 3,677 |
| Decline in adoptions (6 years) | 47% |
| Prospective adoptive parents in India | ~15,000 |
| Children available for adoption | 1,800-2,000 |
| In-country adoptions (2016-2017) | 3,210 |
| Inter-country adoptions (2016-2017) | 578 |
Key Challenges
- Process-Related Concerns: CARA's digitalization, coupled with insufficient education about the new process
- Societal Implications: Inability to have biological children viewed as inadequacy; social stigma around adoption
- Myths and Misinformation: Misconceptions about adopted children and adoption process
- Newer Alternatives: Availability of surrogacy and embryo adoption as alternatives
- Non-Adoptable Children: Social stigma making children with special needs seem less desirable
Are You Ready for Adoption?
Thinking of expanding a family entails a lot of thought and consideration. When adoption becomes an option, it's crucial to assess your readiness honestly.
Critical Questions to Ask Yourself
- Are you psychologically, emotionally and physically ready for adoption?
- Have you gotten past the feeling of inadequacy for not having a birth child?
- Can you unconditionally accept a child of another culture, social, religious and racial background?
- Can you accept and tackle concerns arising out of adoption without any pre-conceived prejudices?
- Is the extended family ready to accept the child and be inclusive in the long run?
Signs You're Ready
- You're prepared to provide a nurturing and stable environment for the child
- You acknowledge and respect the birth parents' place in the adoption unit
- You're willing to be open and share details of adoption without underplaying it
- You handle adoption-related concerns as child-centric concerns, without being overwhelmed
- Your life is primarily characterized by optimism and energy, rather than sadness about not having a birth child
Single Parent Adoption
The "ideal situation" of placing a child with a couple is slowly giving way to diverse family systems. Single parent adoption is widely accepted, with research indicating that children in single adoptive families compare favourably with other adopted children.
If considering single parent adoption, think carefully about:
- Do you have time to nurture and provide a stable environment?
- Financial viability and stability
- Support infrastructure in terms of family & friends
- Is adoption being considered to fill a personal void?
- Would family members continue to support the child in any eventuality?
Recommended: Seek counselling before making your final decision. It helps gain clarity and perspective on your readiness.
Domestic Adoptions
Adopting a child within India follows a specific process through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA).
The Adoption Process
Step 1: Register with CARINGS
Upload soft copies of: ID proof, marriage certificate, proof of residence, family photograph, and medical certificate on the CARINGS platform. CARA will mail you a registration number.
Step 2: Home Study Report
Your selected agency will conduct a detailed home study, evaluating your eligibility, social, economic, health, and psychological status. This typically takes about 1 month.
Step 3: Child Referral & Reservation
Once approved, view profiles of legally free children on CARINGS. You must reserve a child within 48 hours of selection.
Step 4: Meet Your Child
Set up an appointment with the agency (within 20 days). Meet the child's caretaker and learn about the child's routine, likes and dislikes.
Step 5: Pre-Adoption Foster Care
Sign the pre-adoption foster care agreement and bring the child home. You become the temporary guardian during this period.
Step 6: Court Filing & Hearing
The SAA files a petition in the designated court within 10 days of acceptance. The court conducts an in-camera hearing and disposes the case within 60 days.
Step 7: Legal Finalization
The court issues the adoption order. A new birth certificate is issued within 8 working days.
Step 8: Post-Adoption Follow-up
The agency provides follow-up support for 2 years (once every 6 months). You'll receive ongoing counseling and resources as needed.
Timeline Note: The complete adoption process typically takes between 4 months to 2 years from registration, depending on various parameters and current demand.
Special Needs Adoption
Children with special needs are, first and foremost, just like other children. Every child needs a family, special needs or otherwise.
What Defines Special Needs?
Per CARA's definition, special needs children may require:
- Some medical care or ongoing treatment
- External resources or support
- Extra parental attention
- Emotional support
Need more information? For a more detailed look at Special Needs Subcategories, please click here
Why Special Needs Adoption
- Hundreds of special needs children are waiting for parents
- Children often show remarkable improvement just by being placed in a loving home
- Research shows majority of post-adoption improvement happens simply because the child came home
Questions to Ask Yourself
- Are you prepared enough to handle the medical, physical, or behavioural conditions of a special needs child?
- Do you have enough family support and the necessary help?
- Have you fully understood the emotional/physical requirements of the special needs child?
- Have you found out about financial planning and insurance cover for any adverse medical conditions that may arise?
- Are your requirements coming from an altruistic need?
Need guidance? Adopting special needs children requires a certain amount of education and research before you make the decision. Special needs counselling is available. Contact us at adoptpadme@gmail.com to speak with a specialist.
Immediate Placement
Introduced in 2016, the Immediate Placement category allows prospective adoptive parents to adopt without a long wait, while maintaining their queue position.
Who is Available?
- Children referred multiple times but not matched (due to physical attributes, colour, minor medical ailments, etc.)
- Older children (above 5-6 years of age)
- Siblings (to keep families together)
The Process
- Register with CARINGS and upload documents
- Complete home study report (takes about 1 month)
- Once approved, access the Immediate Placement list on CARINGS
- Reserve your child from the list
- Visit the agency and bring child home under pre-adoption foster care (within 14 days)
- Proceed with legal finalization
Important: If you don't accept a child from the immediate placement list, you continue to be eligible for the regular adoption procedure without affecting your position in the queue.
Older Children Adoption
Adopting older children requires adequate emotional preparation and patience. Bonding may not be instantaneous, but unconditional love and support lead to secure attachment over time.
Age Requirements
| Age of Child | Max Composite Age (Couples) | Max Age (Single Parent) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 18 years | 90 years | 45 years |
| 4 to 18 years | 100 years | 50 years |
| 8 to 18 years | 110 years | 55 years |
What Makes Older Children Adoption Different
Older children have their own experiences, preferences, communication style, and emotional needs. They may be grieving previous relationships and need time to adjust. Parents must be patient, flexible, and willing to:
- Allow time for the child to settle into their new environment
- Respect the child's existing food preferences and gradually introduce new ones
- Be patient with hygiene and behavioral adjustments
- Allow the child to choose their own clothes and belongings from the institution
- Learn the child's language if different, or use non-verbal communication
- Respect the child's religious background and beliefs
- Avoid changing the child's name (consider adding a middle name instead)
Need support? Counselling is essential. Contact us at adoptpadme@gmail.com for guidance on older children adoption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is adoption?
+Adoption is a process whereby a person assumes the parenting of another, usually a child, from that person's biological or legal parent or parents, and in so doing, permanently transfers all rights and responsibilities from the biological parent or parents.
How do I know if I'm ready for adoption?
+The first step is to open your mind and heart to children. It's equally important to ponder and carefully analyze all variables in adoption before deciding. Consider:
- Are you psychologically, emotionally and physically ready?
- Have you gotten past feelings of inadequacy?
- Can you unconditionally accept a child of different cultural/religious background?
- Is your extended family supportive?
It's advisable to opt for counselling before arriving at a decision.
Why do I want to adopt?
+This may not be easy for some, but it's a pertinent question you need to ask yourself. Understanding and validating your reasons for adopting is important. Your reasons will significantly impact how you handle post-adoption concerns. Do you feel secure and comfortable with your reasons? Always seek advice from an adoption counsellor before starting the process.
Who can adopt?
+- A married couple
- An Indian citizen
- Non-resident Indian (NRI)
- Overseas citizen of India (OCI)
- Foreign prospective adoptive parents
- A single man (unmarried, divorced or widowed)
- A single woman (unmarried, divorced or widowed)
How long does the adoption process take?
+The adoption process typically takes between 4 months to 2 years from the time of registering with CARA, depending on various parameters such as:
- The age category of the child you're adopting
- Current demand and availability
- Your flexibility with child preferences
- Timely completion of documentation
- Court schedules
Note: Special needs and immediate placement categories typically have shorter wait times.
What are the medical and developmental concerns for adopted children?
+Common medical concerns:
- Micronutrient and macronutrient deficiencies (can be addressed with proper nutrition)
- Developmental delays (often addressable)
- Lack of stimuli in institutions coupled with poor nutrition can delay developmental milestones
Most of these can be corrected at an early stage depending on the extent of gaps in pre-natal or post-natal well-being of the birth mother. Consult with adoption-specialist pediatricians for guidance.
Am I financially prepared for adoption?
+Finances play a critical part in the adoption process. Review your finances before deciding, as there could be additional costs for:
- Support services and counselling
- Medical expenses
- Legal fees
- Documentation and processing
These costs may occur before, during, and post-adoption.
Do I need a support network for adoption?
+Absolutely. Surround yourself with a strong support system of family, friends, and adoption counsellors. This helps you move through the adoption process feeling strong and prepared. Having adoptive parents or a support network is helpful at every stage of adoption. Always seek assistance when in doubt.
What categories of children are available for adoption?
+- Orphan: Child whose both parents are deceased and no legal guardian has been appointed
- Abandoned: Child left without provision for maintenance by parents/guardians
- Surrendered: Child whose parents/guardians voluntarily surrendered the child for placement in adoption
How do I get started?
+First steps:
- Attend a counselling session to explore your readiness
- Choose a Specialized Adoption Agency (SAA)
- Register with CARINGS (CARA's online platform)
- Upload required documents
- Participate in the home study process
- Wait for approval and child referral
Contact us: adoptpadme@gmail.com to schedule a counselling session with our experts.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a counselling session with our adoption experts. We're here to guide you through every step of your adoption journey.
Contact Us Today