Surrogacy has emerged as an available option for many individuals and couples facing challenges in conception. New legislative developments in India have significantly impacted this field, especially with the introduction of the new surrogacy law. The article delves into the surrogacy cost in Delhi by exploring the implications of India's new surrogacy law, the concept of altruistic surrogacy, and the eligibility criteria for those considering this option.

Surrogacy Cost in Delhi

When considering surrogacy in Delhi, one of the foremost concerns for intended parents is the associated costs. Surrogacy costs can vary significantly based on several factors, including:

1. Medical Expenses: This comprises the IVF treatments, check-ups, prenatal care and hospital fees for both the surrogate and the baby.
2. Legal Fees: Legal representation will ensure that all the contracts are drafted correctly and all the parties' rights are preserved. The cost for this legal service varies depending on the complexity of the case.
3. Surrogate Compensation: Under the altruistic model, surrogate mothers can be paid only for medical expenses and associated costs. This would work out to a few hundred thousand rupees, depending on the agreements that have been made.
4. Agency Fees: If intended parents choose to use a surrogacy agency, the agency will add fees for services, which may vary quite widely depending upon the agency's reputation and the extent of services they provide.
5. Miscellaneous Costs: Travel expenses, accommodation of the surrogate if required, and any unforeseen medical emergency

On average, the surrogacy cost in Delhi and surrogacy cost in India can range from INR 15 lakhs to INR 25 lakhs. Intended parents should research fully and budget for it properly.

Law in India

In December 2021, the Indian government passed a landmark Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill that aimed to regulate commercial and altruistic surrogacy in the country. This law primarily focuses on the rights of the surrogate mother and the intended parents while promoting altruistic surrogacy. Only altruistic surrogacy is permitted under the new framework; surrogate mothers can only be compensated for medical expenses and insurance without receiving any other kind of financial incentives.

Altruistic Surrogacy in India

Altruistic surrogacy involves the practice of the surrogate mother carrying a child for another person or couple for free, that is, not for compensation except on medical expenses and insurance reimbursement. The entry of the altruistic model seeks to give surrogacy a more humane treatment in terms of the rights of the surrogate mother and respect in dignity.

Today, altruistic surrogacy is allowed legally in India, as it has framed its rules under specific guidelines so that everyone involved would be covered and protected. This recent regulation has led many individuals and couples to surrogacy more confidently and with fewer reservations, because the system now is being regulated legally.

Eligibility Criteria for Surrogacy in India

The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill specifically spells out the eligibility criteria for intended parents and surrogates, so the process is ethical and equitable. Eligibility criteria for intending parents and surrogates, who wish to engage in surrogacy in India, are as follows:

General Eligibility Criteria

1. Married Couples: Surrogacy is majorly aimed at married couples who have failed to conceive naturally. They should provide proof of their marriage and medical papers showing their infertility..
2. Age Limit: According to the law, the woman spouse must be between 23 and 50 years of age. The man spouse should be between 26 and 55 years of age.
3. Proven Infertility: Surrogate mothers must have a proven medical condition that prevents them from having children through the traditional way.

Eligibility Criteria for Single Women

Under the new law, single women have been granted the right to pursue surrogacy, reflecting a progressive shift towards inclusivity. Here are the criteria specifically for single women:

1. Age Requirement: Single women must be between the ages of 35 and 45 years old.
2. Financial Stability: Single women must prove that they have the financial means to support both the surrogacy process and the upbringing of the child.
3. Health Assessment: Like all intended parents, single women must undergo medical assessments to confirm their capability to raise a child.