The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) plays a crucial role in the lives of countless children and families in India by overseeing the adoption process. Established to ensure ethical practices and streamline the adoption procedure, CARA has become an essential part of the Indian child welfare system. As a statutory body, it derives its legal standing from the Juvenile Justice Act of 2015, which was a significant step in reinforcing the importance of regulated adoptions. CARA’s responsibilities encompass both domestic and international adoptions, ensuring that the best interests of the child are always the top priority. Operating under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, this organization recently marked its sixth year of operation—a milestone that highlights its ongoing commitment to facilitating adoptions and safeguarding the welfare of children.
Statutory Status and Legal Framework
CARA was given statutory status by the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. This act was a landmark piece of legislation that provided a robust legal framework for the protection and welfare of children in India. By granting CARA statutory status, the government recognized the need for a specialized body to handle the complexities of the adoption process. The act outlines the procedures and guidelines that govern both in-country and inter-country adoptions, ensuring that all activities are conducted within a legal structure designed to protect children’s rights and interests.
Role and Functioning of CARA
As the nodal adoption agency in India, CARA’s role is multifaceted. It is responsible for monitoring and regulating the entire adoption process. This includes setting guidelines for adoption agencies, conducting checks to ensure compliance with standards, and maintaining a centralized database of children available for adoption and prospective adoptive parents. CARA’s functions are carried out with the aim of making the adoption process more transparent, efficient, and child-centric. The authority also provides support and guidance to adoption agencies throughout the country, helping them navigate the complexities of the legal and procedural aspects of adoption.
Domestic and Inter-Country Adoptions
One of CARA’s primary responsibilities is to facilitate the adoption of Indian children by Indian citizens within the country, known as domestic adoptions. This involves ensuring that children in need of care and protection are matched with suitable families who can provide a loving and nurturing environment. Additionally, CARA oversees inter-country adoptions, where Indian children are adopted by parents residing abroad. In both cases, CARA works diligently to ensure that all necessary legal requirements are met and that the adoption process serves the best interests of the child.
Autonomous Functioning under the Ministry
Although CARA functions as an autonomous body, it operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Women and Child Development. This relationship allows CARA to maintain its independence while benefiting from the support and oversight of the ministry. The collaboration between CARA and the ministry ensures that policies and programs related to adoption are aligned with the broader goals of child welfare and protection.
Celebration of CARA’s Annual Day
CARA recently celebrated its sixth annual day, marking six years of dedicated service to children and families involved in the adoption process. This occasion serves as a reminder of the important work that CARA undertakes and the positive impact it has had on society. Celebrating this milestone encourages reflection on the achievements of the past and the challenges that lie ahead, as CARA continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of children and the adoption community.
Through its ongoing efforts, CARA remains committed to ensuring that every child in India has the opportunity to grow up in a safe and loving family environment. Its role as the central authority for adoption is vital in upholding the rights of children and supporting the creation of families through the noble act of adoption.
