Western Zone adoption consultative workshop highlights non‑institutional rehab for disabled kids

The Central Adoption Resource Authority convened its fourth regional consultative workshop in Pune, serving the Western Zone that comprises Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, and the Union Territories of Daman‑Diu and Dadra‑Nagar Haveli. Over 150 stakeholders from more than 74 districts participated in the two‑day event.

Under the banner of the "Adoption Awareness Campaign 2025," the workshop centered on promoting non‑institutional rehabilitation pathways for children with disabilities. Sessions covered legal frameworks, psychological support mechanisms, and the role of community networks in facilitating adoptions.

A recorded message from the state’s Women and Child Development Minister highlighted the government's commitment to fostering an environment where special‑needs children can thrive within families rather than institutions. She urged all participants to intensify outreach and education efforts.

CARA’s CEO, Bhavna Saxena, outlined the authority’s recent initiatives, including counseling services, capacity‑building workshops for adoption professionals, and a digital portal that matches children with suitable families. She called for a unified, data‑driven approach to expand placement rates.

The workshop concluded with actionable recommendations: develop localized awareness kits, establish a rapid response team for adoption queries, and organize follow‑up sessions to monitor post‑adoption outcomes for children with special needs.