Surrogacy has brought new hope to many couples struggling
with infertility, allowing them to experience the joy of parenthood. In India, altruistic
surrogacy — where the surrogate mother receives no financial reward
beyond medical expenses and insurance — is the only legally permitted form of
surrogacy. The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 clearly defines who can
be a surrogate mother and under what conditions. Let’s understand these
important eligibility rules.
What is Altruistic Surrogacy?
Altruistic surrogacy is an arrangement where a woman
voluntarily carries a pregnancy for the intended parents without any commercial
benefit. Only essential medical expenses and insurance coverage are provided to
the surrogate mother. This system aims to protect women from exploitation and
ensure that surrogacy remains an ethical, compassionate act.
Eligibility Criteria for a Surrogate Mother in India
According to the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, a
woman can become a surrogate mother only if she meets specific criteria:
- Age
Limit: The woman must be between 25 and 35 years old.
- Marital
Status: She must be a married woman and should have at least one
biological child of her own.
- Close
Relation: The surrogate should be a close relative of the
intended couple, ensuring trust and emotional understanding.
- Health
Conditions: She must be medically and mentally fit for pregnancy, as
confirmed through health screenings.
- One-time
Surrogacy: A woman can act as a surrogate only once in her lifetime.
- No
Monetary Compensation: The surrogate cannot receive any payment or
reward except for medical expenses and maternity insurance.
Why These Rules Are Important
These legal provisions ensure that surrogacy in India is
practiced ethically and safely. By restricting surrogacy to altruistic
arrangements, the law prevents commercialization and exploitation of women,
while still providing hope to couples who cannot conceive naturally.
Where to Get Legal and Medical Guidance
For couples seeking guidance, the best
surrogacy clinic in Delhi, such as Surrogacy Centre India,
offers complete legal and medical support for altruistic surrogacy. Under the
supervision of experienced fertility specialists, intended parents can proceed
with confidence, knowing that every step follows India’s legal and ethical
framework.
Conclusion
Under Indian law, a surrogate mother must be a close, healthy, and willing relative acting out of compassion — not for commercial gain. Understanding these guidelines helps intended parents approach surrogacy responsibly, ensuring a safe and emotionally fulfilling journey toward parenthood.
