Why in news?
On 16 March 2026 the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) issued a series of nationwide directions aimed at improving adoption procedures, safeguarding records and protecting the identity of children.
Background
CARA is a statutory body under the Ministry of Women and Child Development. It was established under Section 68 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 to regulate and monitor adoptions of orphaned, abandoned and surrendered children. The authority serves as India’s central body under the Hague Convention on Inter‑country Adoption and works through a network of specialised adoption agencies and state‑level bodies.
Key directions issued
- Timely declaration of children legally free for adoption: States and child welfare committees must follow strict timelines while declaring children legally free. Efforts to trace biological parents and explore rehabilitation options should be completed within 10–60 days for children below two years and within 60–90 days for older children.
- Safekeeping of adoption records: CARA instructed all states and adoption agencies to preserve adoption records securely. Records should be digitised and kept for at least 30 years so that adopted individuals can later undertake “root searches” to trace their origins.
- Confidentiality of children’s identity: The directions emphasise that the identity of children and biological parents must remain confidential. Adoption agencies and government departments should avoid disclosing any identifying information and must ensure that staff adhere to privacy protocols.
Importance
- Clear procedures and timelines reduce delays and ensure that vulnerable children are placed with families in a timely manner.
- Maintaining records respects the rights of adopted individuals to learn about their origins later in life while protecting sensitive information.
- Confidentiality safeguards children from stigma and unauthorised disclosure, promoting a supportive environment for adoptive families.
Conclusion
The new directions from CARA strengthen India’s adoption framework. By prioritising children’s welfare, preserving records and ensuring confidentiality, the guidelines aim to make adoption more transparent, efficient and humane.
Source: Press Information Bureau