India’s adoption ecosystem has seen a significant boost in FY 2024-25, with a record 4,515 child adoptions, the highest since 2015-16. Of these, 4,155 were domestic adoptions, reflecting growing acceptance of legal adoption in the country. A strong identification drive by Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) introduced 8,598 newly identified children into the adoption pool, ensuring that more children in need find loving families. Additionally, 245 new adoption agencies were set up in coordination with state governments to streamline the adoption process.

Key factors in this progress have been the intervention of Identification Cell and extensive training & awareness campaigns. CARA conducted physical state orientations across 12 states and UTs, along with 45 virtual training sessions covering adoption timelines, training of CWC members, foster care, and adoption counseling for children and prospective adoptive parents (PAPs). Moreover, as part of the Adoption Awareness Campaign, CARA partnered with 16 states to organize meets with Adoptive Parents from October, 2024 to January, 2025. In the presence of Minister of State, Ministry of Women and Child Development, Smt. Savitri Thakur, Annual conclave was also celebrated in November, 2024, focusing on foster care and adoption advocacy, with over 500 stakeholders participating.

Furthering its commitment, CARA launched a comprehensive child identification exercise, adhering to the directives of the Hon’ble Supreme Court. This initiative categorized children under five groups – Orphan, Abandoned, Surrendered, Children with No Visitation, and Children with Unfit Guardians. This strategic effort aimed to bring more children into the legal adoption framework, ensuring their right to a secure and supportive home.

Under the guidance of Ministry of Women and Child Development, CARA also introduced new initiatives to enhance alternate family-based care. In 2024, CARA introduced Foster Care and Foster Adoption Modules on CARINGS portal to ensure placement of older children in family-based alternate care.

In a move towards greater transparency and efficiency, CARA implemented digital interventions to streamline adoption procedures. Enhancements were made to the CARINGS portal, incorporating Identification related initiatives pertaining to data cleansing and provisions from the Adoption Regulations, 2022. New modules for in-country relative and step-parent adoptions were introduced, reducing the average processing time to 3-4 months.

The achievements of FY 2024-25 highlight CARA’s proactive approach in strengthening India’s adoption framework. With continued collaboration between central and state authorities, CARA remains committed to ensuring every child in need finds a safe and loving home.

**** 

SS/MS

(Release ID: 2117433) Visitor Counter : 1285