I was adopted in Hyderabad in 1975. Can I obtain a birth certificate that reflects my adoptive parents' information, or will it show my biological parents' details?


If you were adopted in Hyderabad in 1975, you may be wondering whether your birth certificate can now reflect the names of your adoptive parents, or if it will always show your biological parents’ names.

It’s a very common question — especially for people adopted decades ago, when the rules were completely different from today. Let’s walk through how adoption and birth certificates worked then, what’s changed now, and what steps you can take today to update your records.

Adoption and Birth Certificates — Then and Now

In 1975, India did not have a unified system or digital records for adoption. Each case was handled locally, and in many instances, the original birth certificate listed the biological parents’ names, or sometimes had incomplete details.

This changed in December 2015, when India reformed its adoption system under updated laws and CARA (Central Adoption Resource Authority) guidelines. Under the new rules, when an adoption is finalized, the new birth certificate must include the adoptive parents’ names instead of the biological parents.

This ensures that the document reflects the legal and emotional reality of the child’s family.

However, since your adoption occurred before 2015, your current birth certificate might still show biological parents’ names — or possibly none at all.

Can You Get a New Birth Certificate Now?

Yes, absolutely.

Even though your adoption took place decades ago, you can apply for a revised or updated birth certificate in Telangana that lists your adoptive parents’ names. It may take some time and legal documentation, but the process is possible and recognized by law.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Find Your Adoption Decree

This is the most important document in your case. The adoption decree (or court order) is the official legal proof that your adoption was completed.

If you don’t have a copy, try contacting the court where the adoption took place or your family lawyer. Without this document, it’s difficult for authorities to approve changes to your birth certificate.

2. Contact the Telangana Adoption Resource Authority (TARA)

TARA is the official body in Telangana that manages adoption cases. They can guide you on the procedure and required forms for updating your birth certificate.

You can visit the Department of Women and Child Development, Telangana website to find contact details or visit their office for personalized assistance.

3. Visit the Local Birth Registrar in Hyderabad

Next, go to the Municipal Office or Registrar of Births and Deaths where your birth was originally recorded.

Submit an application to update your birth certificate with the names of your adoptive parents. Be prepared to attach the following:

  • Copy of your adoption decree

  • Copy of your existing birth certificate (if available)

  • Photo ID proof (passport, Aadhaar, etc.)

  • Affidavit or supporting documents if requested by the registrar

The registrar will verify your documents and inform you of the next steps or any additional formalities.

4. Consult a Family Law Expert (If Needed)

Because your adoption happened under old legal provisions, some officials may not be completely familiar with how to handle such cases.

A lawyer specializing in adoption and family law can help you draft the necessary affidavits, approach the right authorities, and ensure your documents meet all legal requirements.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Older records (especially from the 1970s) may not be digitized, so some manual verification could be required.

  • If your adoption was completed through a court order, your case will be easier to process.

  • Keep multiple copies of your adoption decree and new birth certificate once issued — they may be needed in the future for passports, property, or inheritance matters.

Why Updating Your Birth Certificate Matters

Your birth certificate is not just a government record — it’s a legal acknowledgment of your identity and family.

Having it reflect your adoptive parents’ names ensures clarity in all official matters like education, employment, inheritance, or immigration. More importantly, it represents the family that raised you and gave you love, support, and belonging.

Need Assistance? NRIWAY Can Help

If you’re living abroad or find the process complicated, NRIWAY can assist you in getting your updated or corrected birth certificate from Hyderabad — without needing to travel.

NRIWAY specializes in helping Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and overseas citizens with:

  • Obtaining duplicate or corrected birth certificates

  • Managing legal documentation from Indian authorities

  • Coordinating with municipal and court offices on your behalf

You can visit NRIWAY.com to learn more or start your document update process directly.

Final Thoughts

Even though your adoption happened long ago, today’s legal framework finally gives you the opportunity to make your documents reflect your true family.

With the right guidance — from authorities like NRIWAY — you can get an updated birth certificate that truly represents your identity and story. 

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