Over 3,000 families in Jharkhand are facing lengthy wait times of 2.5 to 3 years for adoption amidst increasing demand and limited available children. Understan…

Ranchi: Adoption process in the state has become increasingly difficult for prospective parents in recent times. The waiting duration has significantly lengthened, with families now having to wait between 2.5 to 3 years before being matched with a child. The waiting list in Jharkhand exceeds 3,000 families.

Govt agencies offer children aged between 0 to 6 years for adoption, comprising those who have been surrendered by their parents or found abandoned.

Sangita Sahay, a social worker at Karuna NMO, said, "Parents in line to adopt is more than the children available for adoption across the district. Since 2018, the number of families seeking to adopt has surged. Now, prospective parents are required to wait at least 2.5 to 3 years before they can adopt a child. These days, the lists from 2021 are being released.

"The current situation is evident at Ranchi's two adoption agencies. Karuna houses 18 children whilst Sahyog Village has seven children available for adoption. Adoption costs Rs 64,000, and agencies conduct post-adoption monitoring to ensure child welfare.

Alka Sharma, superintendent at Sahyog Village, said, "This number is likely understated, as many interested families do not even register with the agency, leaving a significant number unaccounted for. The demand for adopting both a baby girl and a baby boy are the same.

"The registration procedure follows strict protocols to assess parental suitability. Applicants must register on the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) portal, respond to questionnaires, and undergo home evaluations. Registered families join a waiting list and receive profiles of available children.

After selection, documents are submitted to the adoption committee for legal processing. Parental age requirements vary according to the child's age. For children aged 0-2 years, the combined age of parents should not exceed 80 years; for 2-4 years, 85 years; for 4-6 years, above 85 years; and for 6-8 years, 90 years.

Adoptions of children above 10 years or with special needs receive priority processing. Required documents include PAN card, Aadhar card, income tax return, marriage certificate, medical certificate, and birth certificate.

Vijay Sharma, a Chatakpur resident awaiting adoption, said, "I have been waiting since 2022 and applied to adopt a baby boy. We registered through the portal, but the waiting list is quite long and we are waiting for years."