Udhampur District Achieves Milestone with First Inter-Country Adoption under Mission Vatsalya

UDHAMPUR, APRIL 16, 2026 — In a significant achievement for child welfare in Jammu and Kashmir, the district administration of Udhampur has successfully facilitated its first inter-country adoption under the framework of Mission Vatsalya.

The process was carried out under the direct guidance of Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa, marking a major milestone for the region’s social welfare initiatives. The case involved a female infant with special needs who was originally found abandoned in the Swaraj Express near the Katra Railway Station.

Following her rescue, she was placed under the immediate care and protection of the District Child Welfare Committee, involving a coordinated effort between the District Social Welfare Department, the State Adoption Resource Agency, and the Phulwari Specialized Adoption Agency.

After the child was declared legally free for adoption following the completion of all mandatory legal formalities under the Central Adoption Resource Authority guidelines, the Phulwari Specialized Adoption Agency provided sustained rehabilitation and counseling.

This dedicated support paved the way for the successful processing of an international adoption application. On April 15, 2026, the infant was formally adopted by prospective parents from the United States, ensuring her transition into a permanent family environment.

The official handover ceremony saw Additional Deputy Commissioner Prem Singh and District Social Welfare Officer Kanika Gupta present the child to her new adoptive parents. Officials noted that this successful inter-country adoption highlights the effective implementation of child protection protocols in Udhampur.

The transition ensures the child’s right to family-based care and a secure future, reflecting the commitment of the local administration and the Phulwari SAA to the rehabilitation of vulnerable children.