Surrogacy offers hope to couples struggling with infertility, allowing them to experience the joy of parenthood. In India, the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 has redefined surrogacy practices, ensuring that the process remains ethical, transparent, and free from commercial exploitation. Altruistic surrogacy—where no monetary benefit is involved except for medical expenses and insurance—has become the only legal form of surrogacy in India.

Understanding Altruistic Surrogacy

Altruistic surrogacy is a selfless arrangement in which a woman (the surrogate) carries a child for the intended parents without any financial compensation. She may receive reimbursement for medical expenses, insurance coverage, and pregnancy-related costs. This system promotes compassion and eliminates the risks of commercial misuse often associated with surrogacy.

Legal Framework in India

Under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, only altruistic surrogacy is permitted. The law aims to protect surrogate mothers and ensure that the rights of all parties—intended parents, surrogate, and the child—are safeguarded.

Key legal provisions include:

1. Eligibility for Intended Parents:

   • Must be Indian citizens.

   • Married couples with at least five years of marriage.

   • The female partner must be medically certified as infertile.

2. Eligibility for Surrogate Mothers:

   • Must be a married woman aged between 25 and 35 years.

   • Should have at least one biological child of her own.

   • Can act as a surrogate only once in her lifetime.

3. Prohibition of Commercial Surrogacy:
   Any form of payment or financial reward to the surrogate mother, other than medical expenses, is illegal.

4. Legal Safeguards:

   • Mandatory written consent of the surrogate.

   • Medical and psychological screening before approval.

   • Insurance coverage for up to 36 months after childbirth.

The Role of Surrogacy Centres in Delhi

Reputed fertility and surrogacy centres in Delhi play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with legal norms. They guide intended parents through documentation, medical assessments, and legal counseling. Centres like Surrogacy Centre India maintain transparency, ensuring every surrogacy arrangement aligns with the national regulatory framework.

Conclusion

Altruistic surrogacy in Delhi provides a legally safe and emotionally fulfilling pathway for couples unable to conceive naturally. With strict laws in place, it protects surrogate mothers while allowing intended parents to realize their dream of parenthood ethically. Choosing a trusted and registered surrogacy centre in Delhi ensures that the process is smooth, lawful, and compassionate from start to finish.