Adoption in India has been practiced for a long time. Even the historic Dharma Shastras have mentioned the practice of adopting an orphan. However, for a long time in Indian history, people used to refer to the holy books or the customary laws to adopt the children abandoned or surrendered by their parents. It was only after the Independence, India had a fully dedicated law named the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956 (HAMA).
Cut to the 21st century, where people living in metropolitan and developing cities of India have sidelined the taboo related to it. From DINK couples to people facing fertility issues, people have started considering Adoption as a means to build their family. However, some cities in India have adopted it more efficiently due to the public adhering to procedures.
One such example is of Chandigarh, as a welcoming hub for diverse families. It supports streamlined procedures through the local District Child Protection Unit DCPU and CARA-affiliated bodies, who are responsible for the adoption procedure in Chandigarh.
Key Legal Requirements for Adoption
CARA is responsible for setting up the basic requirements for the adoption procedure in Chandigarh, and these are as follows:
Eligibility Criteria for Parents
Prospective adoptive parents must show they can give the adopted child an environment where he/she can flourish without facing any economic, psychological and behavioural challenges from parent. Here are the important criteria that one must fulfil to be eligible for adoption.
- Marital Status: Married couples require at least two years of marriage and both partners must mutually accept it. Single women can adopt a child, but when it comes to men, the system doesn’t allow them.
- Age Guidelines: Parents must be at least 25 years old, and must have a 21-year age gap between the youngest parent and child. The upper limit is usually 55 for couples adopting children up to 8 years.
- Health and Stability: The Person responsible for checking the documentation makes sure the health and financial records are satisfactory. This criterion is necessary as it ensures a bright future for the adopted kid.
- Additional Notes: No parent with previous crime records are allowed to adopt kids.
Required Documents and Verification
Here are the required documents and verifications that need to be done before you move to adoption procedure in Chandigarh:
- Identity and residence proofs (Aadhaar, Voter ID, passport).
- Marriage certificate or single-status affidavit.
- Financial statements (last three years’ ITR, bank statements).
- Health reports for parents and household members.
- Four passport photos and an employer NOC if applicable.
Step-by-Step Adoption Procedure
On average, a successful adoption procedure in Chandigarh takes 18-36 months to complete if there are no hindrances and every required documentation is handed over on time. Here is the complete adoption procedure.
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Registration and Home Study:
Register on the dedicated website and pay an amount of ₹40,000. If your application is accepted, a home inspection will be done by the responsible volunteer, who will check whether the environment is suitable for the growth of the adopted child.
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Court Petitions and Hearings:
Once the above step is completed, your application will be matched to the preferred child, and you will be notified once the match is completed, and you will be asked to accept it within 48 hours.
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Final Adoption Order:
The court issues the order, legally binding the child to your family. Update records at the Registrar of Births and get CARA’s certificate. Post-adoption is then done to ensure the parents are adhering to the norms mentioned.
Role of a Family-Law Professional
While the adoption procedure in Chandigarh may look a little lengthy, it can be made hassle-free if you consult a family law professional before adopting a child in Chandigarh.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Legal guidance in matters that include court and heavy documentation is a must to ensure everything is accurately done with precision. Also an experienced legal professional who has experience with similar cases can help you with smooth proceedings and can shorten the expected time of approval in the adoption procedure in Chandigarh.
Support Throughout the Process
From document prep to court appearances, lawyers liaise with DCPU and CARA. Many firms offer counseling services for emotional support, to ensure the mental well-being of the couple.
Important Tips for a Smooth Adoption Journey
Ease your path with these practical steps:
- Educate Yourself: Join CARA’s online orientation where they teach couples how to deal with the adopted kid and break the barrier so that he/she feels at home in your presence.
- Stay Flexible: A couple can go for twins so that a single adopted child may not feel lonely if the parents are working professionals.
- Plan Finances: Planning finances is one of the most crucial parts, as it ensures smooth experience in terms of adoption.
- Monitor Actively: Check the portal weekly; call CARA helpline (14567) for updates.
- Seek Community: Connect with adoption forums for real stories, which may help you in the adoption journey.
- Prioritize Child: Focus on bonding during foster care visits as it is the most crucial.
Conclusions
From ancient texts to modern CARA rules, adoption in India has grown into a compassionate, regulated system. The adoption procedure in Chandigarh blends national laws with local efficiency, opening doors for countless families. With clear steps and professional help, it’s a rewarding journey toward unconditional love. Ready to begin? Register today and consult a local expert, your child’s future starts now.