Recently, the Central Adoption Resource Authority issued nationwide directions to strengthen adoption procedures. These directions aim to safeguard adoption records, ensure transparency, and protect the identity of children, thereby improving the integrity of the adoption process across India.
About CARA
The Central Adoption Resource Authority is a statutory body under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India. It was granted statutory status under Section 68 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
Its primary mandate is to regulate and monitor the adoption of orphaned, abandoned, and surrendered children through recognized adoption agencies.
CARA is also designated as the Central Authority for intercountry adoptions in accordance with the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption, which India ratified in 2003.
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Headquarters: New Delhi
Functions of CARA
The authority performs several important functions:
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It promotes in-country adoptions and facilitates inter-state adoptions in coordination with state agencies.
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It regulates intercountry adoptions, ensuring compliance with international norms and safeguards.
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It has the power to frame and update adoption regulations as required.
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It performs the role of the Central Authority under the Hague Convention, ensuring ethical and transparent international adoption processes.
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It undertakes additional functions as prescribed by the government.
Monitoring and Regulatory Role
CARA plays a crucial role in supervising and coordinating various institutions involved in the adoption process, including:
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State Adoption Resource Agency (SARA)
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Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA)
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Authorised Foreign Adoption Agency (AFAA)
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Child Welfare Committees (CWCs)
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District Child Protection Units (DCPUs)
Through this network, it ensures accountability, transparency, and child welfare in adoption procedures.
Conclusion
The Central Adoption Resource Authority plays a vital role in regulating and streamlining adoption processes in India. The recent directions highlight the need for stronger safeguards, better record management, and protection of children’s identity, ensuring that adoption remains ethical, transparent, and child-centric.