Introduction
In India, millions of children are abandoned every year due to poverty, gender bias, and family crises. Shockingly, 90% of these children are girls, with only a fraction finding homes through adoption. The government and NGOs are working tirelessly to address this issue through legal frameworks like the Juvenile Justice Act and CARA (Central Adoption Resource Authority).
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This blog explores the causes of child abandonment, key statistics, legal provisions, and rehabilitation programs aimed at giving these vulnerable children a second chance at life.
The Crisis of Abandoned Children in India
Key Statistics
20 million+ abandoned children worldwide, with a significant number in India.
11 million abandoned children in India, 90% of whom are girls (UNICEF).
Only 5,000 adoptions occur annually, leaving thousands institutionalized.
Why Are Children Abandoned?
Poverty – Families unable to afford basic needs.
Gender Bias – Preference for male children leads to girl child abandonment.
Illegitimacy & Social Stigma – Children born out of wedlock are often abandoned.
Disability & Illness – Parents may abandon children with special needs.
Family Breakdown – Death, divorce, or migration leaves children vulnerable.
Legal Frameworks for Child Protection & Adoption
1. Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA)
Governs domestic and inter-country adoptions.
Operates under the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
Manages CARINGS (Child Adoption Resource Information and Guidance System) for online adoption processes.
2. Key Adoption Laws in India
| Law | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hindu Adoption & Maintenance Act (1956) | Governs adoptions for Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists. |
| Guardians & Wards Act (1890) | Provides guardianship (not full adoption) for Muslims, Christians, Parsis. |
| Juvenile Justice Act (2015) | Covers all children, including orphans and surrendered kids. |
3. New Adoption Guidelines (2015)
Online registration for adoptive parents via CARINGS.
Strict timelines to reduce delays in adoption.
Transparency in matching children with families.
Rehabilitation Programs for Abandoned Children
1. Institutional Care (Children’s Homes & Shelter Homes)
Provide food, education, and medical care.
Run by the government and NGOs.
2. Foster Care & Sponsorship
Temporary care until adoption is finalized.
Sponsorship programs support education and healthcare.
3. NGO Initiatives
CHILDLINE (1098) – Emergency helpline for vulnerable children.
Udayan Care, SOS Children’s Villages – Provide long-term support.
How Can You Help?
✅ Support NGOs working with abandoned children.
✅ Consider adoption – Visit CARA’s official website.
✅ Volunteer or donate to orphanages and child welfare programs.
Conclusion
The plight of abandoned children in India is a pressing issue, but legal reforms and rehabilitation programs offer hope. By raising awareness and supporting adoption initiatives, we can help these children find loving homes.
Have questions about adoption in India? Drop them in the comments below!
FAQ Section
Q1: How many children are abandoned in India annually?
A: Estimates suggest over 11 million, with 90% being girls.
Q2: Can non-Hindus adopt in India?
A: Yes, under the Guardians & Wards Act (1890), but it grants guardianship, not full adoption rights.
Q3: What is CARA’s role in adoption?
A: CARA regulates domestic and inter-country adoptions, ensuring transparency and legal compliance.
Q4: How can I report an abandoned child?
A: Call CHILDLINE at 1098 or contact local child welfare authorities.
