If all goes according to an affidavit filed with the Supreme Court on October 28, India will soon ban Indian women from becoming surrogate mothers for foreigners. The move seems to regulate the booming surrogacy in India—currently the industry measures more than $400 million.
According to the affidavit, it is easy for foreigners to find women in India who are willing to lend their wombs, especially among the impoverished lot. And this is a breeding ground of exploitation.
In the affidavit, the Department of Health Research of the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare quoted that 'the government does not support commercial surrogacy. The services should only be available to Indian married infertile couples and not to foreigners'.
The cost of surrogacy in India can be a third of the cost in wealthier countries. However, some experts do not welcome the move as they say it will hit the industry hard.
5 things to know before you opt for surrogacy in India
With infertility among Indian couples on the rise, more and more people are turning towards treatments and methods that help them become parents. The trend has even caught up with the high and mighty, with the likes of Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan opting for surrogacy to increase their families.
However, there are few questions to pop up before you think about hiring a womb:
- Why do you want to do it? Did you contemplate about adopting?
- Are you aware about the laws?
- Have you undergone a counselling?
- What is the total cost of the procedure?
- Is the doctor or the agency trustworthy?
What do you think about the news on surrogacy in India? Please share in the Comment box below.
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