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Digitally certified adoption

02.07.2025

 

Digitally certified adoption

 

Context

Recently, CARA clarified that digitally certified adoption orders sent via email are legally valid, eliminating the need for physical copies under current laws.

About the News

  • CARA stated hard copies of adoption orders are not required anymore.
  • Digitally signed copies sent to adoptive parents via email are fully legally valid.
  • This clarification aligns with the rules under the Juvenile Justice Act 2015.
  • It promotes paperless governance and faster adoption processing.

 

 

Central Adoption Resource Authority

  • CARA is a statutory body under the Ministry of Women & Child Development.
     → It gained legal status under Section 68 of the JJ Act, 2015.
  • Established in 1990, it regulates in-country and inter-country adoption.
     → It functions through recognised adoption agencies across India.
  • CARA is India’s central authority under the Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption (1993).
     → India ratified this in 2003, ensuring international legal backing.
  • It handles adoption of orphaned, abandoned, and surrendered children.
     → Adoptions are processed via Child Adoption Resource Information & Guidance System (CARINGS).
  • Laws governing adoptions include JJ Act, Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, and Guardians and Wards Act.
     → Ensures both religious and secular legal coverage.
  • Child Care Institutions (CCIs) must be registered and linked with CARA under JJ Act.
     → Promotes uniform monitoring and accountability.


 

Challenges

  • Digital adoption orders may be rejected due to lack of awareness.
     → Example: Some state officials still ask for printed orders.
    Adoption process remains slow in many districts.
     → Example: Limited staff at Specialised Adoption Agencies delays approvals.
  • Legal complexity confuses parents during inter-country adoptions.
     → Example: OCI/foreign couples face long processing time and multiple verifications.
  • Insufficient awareness campaigns about CARA guidelines.
     → Example: Many prospective parents are unaware of the CARINGS portal and procedures.
     

Way Forward

  • Awareness drives for digital order acceptance across all states.
     → Example: Conduct joint sessions for CWCs and district courts.
  • Strengthen SAAs and DPUs through more staffing and training.
     → Example: Provide digital training for adoption officers.
  • Simplify inter-country adoption steps for NRIs and OCI applicants.
     → Example: Launch step-by-step online guidance in regional languages.
  • Publicise CARINGS portal and JJ Act provisions via media.
     → Example: Use TV and radio ads in regional languages to reach rural areas.

 

 

Conclusion

CARA’s digital clarification promotes paperless and faster adoption, aligning with modern governance. With better awareness and simpler processes, adoption in India can become more transparent, inclusive, and child-centric.

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