Adopting a child to create a family has been an age-old Indian practice; it was common to take on and bring up as one's own, the child of a relative or friend or an orphan; the child just entered the family-fold and remained there, as a member.

Property matters and inheritance rights necessitated the legalization of Adoptions; The Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, (HAMA) (amended in 1960 & 1962) came into force in December 1956. Religion- based, personal laws of some communities do not permit adoptions. Non-Hindus can therefore, take a child as a ‘ward’ under The Guardian And Wards Act, 1890.

Indian Adoptions are regulated by the Ministry for Women & Child Development, Government of India, and routed through Central and State Government Departments. The Central Adoption Resource Agency (CARA) an autonomous body under the Ministry is authorized to regulate, monitor and promote Indian adoptions. Only a recognized Child Welfare Agency can undertake Adoptions. Agencies are separately licensed to do in-country, and international placements. The Government of India also, registers international Placement agencies who can coordinate with agencies in India, for placing a child.