CARA organises its Third Regional Consultative Workshop for  Central Zone in Bhopal

**Executive Summary** The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) conducted its Third Regional Consultative Workshop for the Central Zone in Bhopal on March 17, 2026. Part of a nationwide awareness campaign, the workshop focused on promoting family-based care and the non-institutionalised rehabilitation of children with special needs (Divyaang children). The event served as a platform for over 200 participants to coordinate adoption strategies and develop actionable recommendations for the region. **Key Points / Main Content** **Workshop Overview and Participation** * The event was organized by CARA in collaboration with the Government of Madhya Pradesh and the State Adoption Resource Agency (SARA). * The workshop focused on the Central Zone, which includes Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand, representing the highest number of districts in the country. * Attendance included approximately 200 stakeholders from over 170 districts, including officials from SARAs, Specialised Adoption Agencies (SAAs), Child Care Institutions (CCIs), and District Child Protection Units (DCPUs). **Strategic Objectives** * The primary theme was "Promoting Non-Institutionalised Rehabilitation of Children with Special Needs (Divyaang Children)." * The initiative seeks to discourage long-term institutional care in favor of supportive family environments. * Discussions focused on strengthening child protection systems and encouraging greater societal participation in adoption. **Operational Focus and Outcomes** * Deliberations included reviews of current adoption statuses, sharing successful case studies, and addressing specific challenges in medical assessments and legal procedures. * Stakeholders aimed to improve coordination between healthcare systems and child protection units to facilitate faster rehabilitation. * A short film was unveiled to demonstrate the positive impact of successful special-needs adoption and to boost community support. * The workshop concluded with a commitment to inclusive policies that prioritize the best interests of Divyaang children. **Impact Analysis** **State and District Adoption Agencies (SARA, SAA, DCPU, CCI)** **Impact** These agencies are central to the implementation of the adoption process and are directly affected by the push for faster rehabilitation and improved facilitation mechanisms. **Action Required** They must implement the actionable recommendations developed during the workshop and enhance coordination to streamline legal and administrative procedures. **Medical Professionals and Chief Medical Officers (CMOs)** **Impact** The document highlights the critical role of medical assessments in the adoption of children with special needs. **Action Required** These professionals must address existing challenges in medical assessments and improve communication with child protection systems to ensure timely rehabilitation. **Divyaang Children (Children with Special Needs)** **Impact** The primary beneficiaries of the proposed policy shifts from institutional care to holistic, family-based rehabilitation. **Action Required** While the children are the subjects of the policy, the document mandates that systems must be adjusted to ensure they grow up in supportive family environments rather than long-term institutions. **Societal and Community Stakeholders** **Impact** The campaign aims to change public perception and encourage community support for the adoption of children with special needs. **Action Required** Greater participation is required from society to provide family-based care and support for adoption initiatives as highlighted by the Minister for Women and Child Development.

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