Surrogacy has given countless couples and individuals the
joy of parenthood, but in India, the process is governed by strict regulations
to ensure ethical and legal transparency. For single women,
understanding the current surrogacy laws in India is essential before
considering this option.
The Legal Framework of Surrogacy in India
The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, and its
amendment in 2023, define who can access surrogacy services in India. The law
permits altruistic surrogacy
only—meaning the surrogate mother receives no financial compensation other than
medical expenses and insurance. Commercial surrogacy, where payment is made for
carrying a pregnancy, is strictly prohibited.
Initially, the law limited surrogacy to Indian heterosexual
married couples who had been childless for at least five years. However,
following recent amendments, single women (widowed or divorced) are now allowed
to opt for altruistic surrogacy under specific medical conditions.
Eligibility Criteria for Single Women
According to the revised Surrogacy
Laws in India, a single woman must meet the following criteria:
- She
must be an Indian citizen.
- She
should be a widow or divorced woman aged between 35 and 45 years.
- She
must obtain a medical certificate of infertility or inability to carry a
pregnancy.
- The
surrogacy arrangement must be altruistic, with a close relative acting as
the surrogate mother.
This ensures that surrogacy remains an ethical,
compassionate act rather than a commercial transaction.
Why Altruistic Surrogacy Is Important
Altruistic surrogacy promotes emotional trust and ethical
integrity. The surrogate mother does not receive financial compensation,
ensuring that the process is motivated by empathy rather than profit. Many
intended parents choose an altruistic
surrogacy centre in Delhi, where the procedure follows all legal and
medical guidelines. These centres provide expert fertility care, psychological
counseling, and legal guidance to ensure a safe and compliant surrogacy
journey.
Conclusion
The updated surrogacy laws in India have made it possible for single women, especially widows and divorcees, to embrace motherhood through altruistic surrogacy. While the process involves legal and medical checks, it provides a structured, ethical path to parenthood. Consulting a reputed altruistic surrogacy centre in India ensures professional care, transparency, and adherence to the law — helping single women fulfill their dream of becoming mothers responsibly and confidently.
