Patna: Over the past decade, 1,445 adoptions have been formally registered across Bihar, with the capital city, Patna, recording the highest number at 101, according to data from the Prohibition, Excise and Registration Department.
Bihar has set clear conditions for child adoption. Couples or individuals seeking to adopt must do so with mutual consent. Prospective adopters of a son should not already have a son, and similarly, those adopting a daughter should not have a daughter. The adopter must be at least 21 years older than the child, who must be under 15 years of age. Consent from the biological parents or guardians is also required.
While registration of the adoption deed is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended for legal clarity. A stamp duty of Rs 2,000 and a registration fee of Rs 1,500 are required. Once registered, an adoption deed cannot be revoked. Registered children acquire the same inheritance rights within the adopting family as biological children, though they do not gain rights in the biological family’s property. These regulations currently apply only to Hindus, with separate provisions for other religions.
