Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA)’s directions to State Adoption Resource Agencies (SARAs)
iasparliament
July 19, 2025
Prelims – Current events of national and international importance.
Why in news?
The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA), has issued comprehensive directions to all State Adoption Resource Agencies (SARAs).
Aim - To strengthen and institutionalize structured counselling services throughout the adoption process.
Stages of the adoption process
Pre-adoption,
During adoption,
Post-adoption stages.
Nodal Ministry - The Ministry of Women and Child Development.
Directions issued under - Section 70(1)(a) of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (as amended in 2021).
These arealigned with the provisions laid down under the Adoption Regulations, 2022.
This initiative aims to reinforce the psychosocial support framework for all key stakeholders.
Key Stakeholders - Prospective Adoptive Parents (PAPs), adopted children, and biological parents who surrender their child for adoption.
Professionals’ Qualification - Designate or empanel qualified counsellors at the district and state levels.
They shouldhave a background knowledge in child psychology, mental health, or social work.
Mandatory Provisions -Pre-adoption counselling- It has been made mandatory to provide pre-adoption counselling to prospective adoptive parents during the Home Study Report (HSR) process.
Additionally, older children must receive counselling support both before and during the adoption process.
Post-adoption counselling - To be provided in specific situations, such as
When an adopted child initiates a root search to trace their origins,
In cases of non-adjustment between the child and adoptive family, or
In any situation indicating potential disruption or dissolution of the adoption.
These are covered under Regulations 30(4)(e), 14(4), 14(6)(b), and 21(6) of the Adoption Regulations, 2022.
The directions also include provisions for psychosocial intervention in any other circumstances as assessed by the Specialised Adoption Agencies (SAAs) or District Child Protection Units (DCPUs).
Moreover, counselling for biological parents surrendering their children for adoption has been mandated.
They must be informed about the legal finality of their decision after 60 days and the child's right to undertake a root search in the future, in accordance with Regulations 7(11) and 30(2)(c).
Significance - The Central Adoption Resource Authority remains committed to building a robust, child-friendly, and emotionally supportive adoption ecosystem in India.
Through these measures, CARA aims to safeguard the rights of children and ensure that every adoption is a step towards creating a secure and loving family environment.
