Surrogacy has emerged as a significant method for many couples and individuals seeking to expand their families. Among the various forms of surrogacy, altruistic surrogacy stands out due to its emphasis on compassionate and non-commercial motivations. In India, altruistic surrogacy has garnered attention both domestically and internationally. This article delves into the concept of altruistic surrogacy, its legal framework in India, and the role of altruistic surrogacy centers.

Understanding Altruistic Surrogacy

Altruistic surrogacy refers to a surrogacy arrangement where the surrogate mother receives no financial compensation beyond medical expenses and insurance. This form of surrogacy is driven by a genuine desire to help others achieve parenthood, without any profit motive. It contrasts with commercial surrogacy, where the surrogate is paid a fee for her services.

Legal Framework of Altruistic Surrogacy in India

India has undergone significant changes in its surrogacy laws over the past decade. The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, was a landmark legislation that banned commercial surrogacy and strictly regulated altruistic surrogacy. Under this act, only altruistic surrogacy is permitted, emphasizing the ethical and moral dimensions of the practice.

The key provisions of the act include:

• Only married Indian couples with proven infertility are eligible for altruistic surrogacy.

• The surrogate mother must be a close relative of the intending couple.

• The surrogate should be married and have at least one biological child.

• There is an age limit for both the surrogate (25-35 years) and the intending parents (23-50 years for women and 26-55 years for men).

Altruistic Surrogacy Centers in India

The establishment of altruistic surrogacy centers in India has played a crucial role in facilitating this compassionate form of surrogacy. These centers operate under strict ethical guidelines and regulatory oversight to ensure the well-being of all parties involved.

Services Offered by Altruistic Surrogacy Centers

1. Medical Services: Comprehensive medical care for the surrogate mother and the child, including prenatal and postnatal care.

2. Legal Assistance: Guidance on navigating the complex legal landscape to ensure compliance with the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act.

3. Counseling: Psychological support for both the surrogate mother and the intending parents to address any emotional and mental health needs.

4. Matching Services: Assistance in finding a suitable surrogate who meets the legal and ethical criteria set forth by Indian law.

Surrogacy Centre India is a prominent altruistic surrogacy centre in India. It offers extensive support and cutting-edge medical facilities, providing holistic care with a strong focus on legal and psychological support.

Challenges and Considerations

While altruistic surrogacy is a noble endeavor, it comes with its set of challenges. Ensuring the surrogate's consent and well-being is paramount. There are also cultural and social dynamics that influence the acceptance and practice of surrogacy in India. Furthermore, strict regulations and eligibility criteria can limit the availability of surrogates, making the process lengthy and complex.

Conclusion

Altruistic surrogacy in India represents a blend of compassion, ethics, and stringent regulation. With the support of dedicated altruistic surrogacy centers, many couples can realize their dreams of parenthood in a manner that respects the dignity and welfare of the surrogate mother. As the legal and social landscape continues to evolve, altruistic surrogacy remains a beacon of hope for those seeking to build their families through this selfless act.