Visakhapatnam: In a noteworthy initiative aimed at safeguarding the welfare of adopted children, minister of women's development and child welfare Gummadi Sandhya Rani has underscored the importance of legalising child adoption practices.
This emphasis was articulated during a specialised awareness programme titled “Celebrations of National Adoption Awareness Month November 2024” in Visakhapatnam.
Rani highlighted the urgent need for the safe care of adopted children and announced the implementation of stringent measures against individuals involved in the illegal sale or exploitation of children as labourers.
The primary objective of this initiative is to eradicate illegal adoptions, prevent child trafficking and enhance awareness regarding the legal processes associated with adoption. The programme also includes state-level meetings for adoptive families and prospective adoptive parents, providing a forum for exchanging experiences and vital information.
Under the aegis of the Women Development and Child Welfare Department, 27 orphanages have been established throughout Andhra Pradesh. These facilities play a crucial role in offering shelter and care for orphaned and abandoned children aged 0 to 6. At present, 108 children reside within these 27 operational orphanages. Historically, there have been 473 domestic adoptions and 114 international adoptions, reflecting the department’s unwavering commitment to securing loving homes for these vulnerable children.
Minister Sandhya Rani emphasised that strict legal penalties would be enforced against individuals who unlawfully transport children abroad for purposes of labour exploitation. The existing adoption framework encompasses domestic and international adoptions from relatives, as well as foster care and foster adoption, thereby ensuring a comprehensive approach to child welfare.
The minister said, “The government’s advocacy for the legalisation of child adoption practices, coupled with its commitment to stringent measures against exploitation, represents a significant advancement in safeguarding the welfare of adopted children. The establishment of orphanages and the emphasis on legal adoption processes underscore the government's dedication to providing a secure and nurturing environment for all children. This initiative not only seeks to combat illegal practices but also to foster awareness and support for adoptive families, thereby ensuring a brighter future for vulnerable children.”
