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

Detailed Legal Analysis

To adopt a child through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) in Surat for inter-country adoption, you must follow a systematic process in compliance with the Adoption Regulations, 2017, and the guidelines provided by CARA.

Here are the key steps and requirements involved in the inter-country adoption process:

• Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria as specified under the Adoption Regulations, 2017. This includes:
• Being at least 25 years old and at least 21 years older than the child.
• Being married for a minimum of two years, or single (unmarried, divorced, or widowed) if you are adopting a child of a specific age.
• Financial stability and good physical and mental health.
• Registration with CARA: You need to register as prospective adoptive parents (PAPs) with CARA. The registration can be done online through their official website.
• Home Study Report (HSR): After registration, you should undergo a Home Study Report prepared by a recognized adoption agency. This report assesses your suitability and preparedness for adoption.
• Child Matching: Once the HSR is approved, you will be entered into the waiting list for child matching. CARA will match you with a child based on your preferences and the availability of children.
• Acceptance of the Child: Upon receiving a match, you will be provided with information about the child. If you accept, you will need to sign an acceptance letter.
• Legal Proceedings: Engage with the concerned authority to initiate the adoption procedure. This typically involves filing a petition in the relevant court, following the guidelines under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. The court will evaluate the adoption application, and upon satisfaction, grant an adoption order.
• Post-Adoption Compliance: After the adoption is finalized, it is mandatory to submit post-adoption reports to CARA for a specified period to ensure the welfare of the child.

It is crucial to be aware of the Hague Convention on Inter-Country Adoption, which India is a signatory to, ensuring that the adoption process is ethical and the rights of the child are protected.

For specific details and updates, you can visit the official CARA website or consult a legal expert specializing in adoption law in India.