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

Detailed Legal Analysis

Your friend in Pune should approach the Maharashtra State Adoption Coordination Agency (MSACA) for adopting a child.

In India, the adoption process is regulated by the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Adoption Regulations of 2017 under this Act. The MSACA is responsible for facilitating the adoption process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met.

Here are the steps and requirements for your friend to follow:

• Registration: Your friend needs to register with the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) through their online portal. Registration can be done at CARA’s website.
• Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible to adopt, your friend must meet the following criteria:
  • Be at least 25 years old and at least 21 years older than the child to be adopted.
  • Single applicants and married couples are eligible; however, a couple must be married for at least two years.
  • Financial stability and a stable living environment are also assessed.
• Home Study Report: After registration, a Home Study Report (HSR) will be conducted by a social worker. This report assesses your friend’s suitability as an adoptive parent.
• Referral of Child: Based on the HSR, your friend will receive a referral for a child available for adoption. The referral includes details about the child's background and health.
• Legal Procedures: Once a child is accepted for adoption, your friend must file a petition in the Family Court for legal adoption under Section 61 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
• Post-Adoption Support: After the adoption is finalized, there are provisions for post-adoption support and follow-up to ensure the well-being of the child.

Additionally, it is crucial for your friend to consult with legal professionals or social workers to navigate the intricacies of the adoption process smoothly. The adoption process can be lengthy, but it ensures the best interests of the child are prioritized as per Section 1(3) of the Juvenile Justice Act.