In a landmark move for healthcare in Assam, five hospitals across the state have received official certificates to operate as surrogacy clinics. The certifications, handed over by Health Minister Ashok Singhal on May 23, signify a crucial stride towards bringing the complex process of surrogacy under stringent government regulation. This development marks a significant first for Assam under the Surrogacy and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) services, aligning with the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act and ART Act of 2021, both designed to ensure ethical practices and enhanced regulation within the realm of assisted reproduction.
Minister Singhal highlighted that this certification process will serve as a vital mechanism to guarantee that individuals and couples grappling with fertility challenges receive care from accredited and properly regulated facilities. The five pioneering clinics to receive this recognition are well-established medical institutions within Assam: GMCH Fertility & IVF Center, Apollo Fertility in Guwahati, Down Town Hospital Ltd. in Guwahati, Institute of Human Reproduction in Guwahati, and Swasti Hospital in Rangia, Kamrup. These centres now possess official government recognition, assuring adherence to the legal and medical benchmarks stipulated by the recent legislations.
“This is a proud moment for Assam,” stated Minister Singhal, underscoring the significance of the achievement. “For the first time, we have certified centres that comply with the rules of the Surrogacy and ART Acts. This means aspiring parents can trust these centres to provide safe, ethical, and compassionate care.” The Minister further commended the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma for his steadfast support in materialising this initiative, reiterating the government’s unwavering commitment to assisting those seeking to start families, while simultaneously safeguarding the rights and safety of all parties involved in the process.
The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, enacted in 2021, aims to govern surrogacy practices nationwide, striving to prevent any form of misuse or exploitation. Concurrently, the ART Act focuses on regulating clinics that provide treatments such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and other fertility services, ensuring their operation within strict ethical frameworks.
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