How do I adopt a child through CARA in Panipat for inter-country adoption?

Detailed Legal Analysis

To adopt a child through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) in Panipat for inter-country adoption, you need to follow a structured legal process outlined under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Adoption Regulations, 2017.

Here are the steps and requirements for inter-country adoption through CARA:

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Adoptive parents must be married couples, single individuals, or divorced individuals (if single, they must be at least 30 years old).
  • Couples must have been married for at least two years.
  • Age of the adoptive parents should generally not exceed 45 years.
• Registration with CARA:
  • Complete the online registration process on the CARA website.
  • Submit necessary documents such as identity proof, marriage certificate (if applicable), financial stability proof, and health certificates.
• Home Study Report:
  • Once registered, a home study report will be conducted by a registered agency to assess the suitability of the adoptive parents.
  • This report will evaluate the environment of the home, the psychological and emotional readiness of the parents, and their ability to care for a child.
• Waiting for Referral:
  • Post evaluation, you will be placed on a waiting list for a child referral.
  • CARA will match you with a child based on your preferences and the child's needs.
• Acceptance of Referral:
  • After receiving a referral, you will need to accept the match within a specified timeframe.
  • Upon acceptance, you will receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from CARA.
• Legal Process:
  • File an application for adoption before the relevant court under the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890.
  • Obtain the adoption order from the court, which will formalize the adoption legally.
• Post-Adoption Follow-Up:
  • Adoptive parents are required to submit post-adoption reports to CARA for a stipulated period.
  • This ensures the child's well-being and integration into the family.

It is crucial to adhere to the regulations set forth by CARA and ensure compliance with both Indian and the respective foreign country's adoption laws for a smooth inter-country adoption process.