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

Detailed Legal Analysis

Your friend in Udaipur should approach the Rajasthan State Adoption Agency for adoption of a child.

In India, adoption is governed primarily by the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Adoption Regulations, 2017. The Rajasthan State Adoption Agency, which operates under the Department of Women and Child Development, is responsible for facilitating adoptions within the state.

Here are the steps and requirements your friend should follow to initiate the adoption process:

• Registration: Your friend must first register as an adoptive parent with the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA). This can be done online through the CARA website.
• Eligibility Criteria: Ensure that she meets the eligibility criteria as per the Adoption Regulations, which include:
  • Age: The prospective adoptive parent must be at least 25 years old and at least 21 years older than the child to be adopted.
  • Marital Status: Single individuals and married couples can apply, but married couples must apply together.
  • Financial Stability: The applicant must demonstrate financial stability to support the child.
• Home Study Report: A home study report will be conducted by the adoption agency to assess the suitability of the prospective adoptive parents.
• Referral of Child: Once approved, the agency will refer a child to her based on the preferences indicated in her application.
• Legal Procedures: After accepting the referral, she will need to file a petition for adoption in the appropriate family court under Section 61 of the Juvenile Justice Act.
• Final Adoption Order: The family court will issue a final adoption order once all legal formalities are completed.

It is crucial for your friend to remain patient throughout the process, as adoption can take time. She should also ensure that all documentation is in order, including identity proof, marriage certificates (if applicable), income proof, and any other documents requested by the agency.

For more information, your friend can visit the official website of CARA and the Rajasthan State Adoption Agency to get details on the process and necessary forms.