My friend in Darbhanga wants to adopt a child, which state adoption agency should she approach?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Your friend in Darbhanga should approach the Bihar State Child Protection Society for the adoption of a child.

In India, adoption is governed by the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956, among others. The process is designed to ensure the welfare of children and to provide a structured approach to adoption.

Here are the steps and requirements for adoption in Bihar:

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • The prospective adoptive parents (PAPs) must be at least 25 years old and at least 21 years older than the child they intend to adopt.
  • Single individuals can adopt a child but must be at least 30 years old.
  • Married couples should have been married for at least two years before applying for adoption.
• Contacting the State Adoption Agency:
  • Your friend should reach out to the Bihar State Child Protection Society located in Patna, as they oversee adoption procedures in the state.
  • Contact details can be found on the official Bihar government website or through local child welfare committees.
• Registration:
  • Register online on the CARA (Central Adoption Resource Authority) portal, which is mandatory for both domestic and inter-country adoption.
  • Submit required documents such as identity proof, address proof, marriage certificate, and income proof.
• Home Study Report:
  • A social worker will conduct a home study to evaluate the suitability of the PAPs.
  • This report will be submitted to the adoption agency for approval.
• Matching:
  • Once approved, the agency will match the PAPs with a child available for adoption.
  • The PAPs will be given details about the child, and they can decide to proceed with the adoption.
• Legal Procedure:
  • After acceptance, the adoption must be legalized through the appropriate court, as stipulated under the Juvenile Justice Act.
  • A final adoption order will be issued by the court, granting legal rights and responsibilities to the adoptive parents.

It is advisable for your friend to keep in touch with social workers and legal advisors throughout the process to ensure a smooth adoption experience.