Correct Answer:
Option A —
Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Understanding Altruistic Surrogacy
Assertion (A): Altruistic surrogacy involves no monetary compensation to the surrogate mother.
Status: Correct.
Details: Under Indian law, "altruistic surrogacy" is the only legal form of surrogacy. It prohibits commercial surrogacy, meaning the surrogate mother cannot be paid any "fee," "reward," or "remuneration" for her services or for "renting" her womb.
Reason (R): Only medical expenses and insurance coverage during the pregnancy are given.
Status: Correct.
Details: While the surrogate cannot be paid a salary or fee, the law recognizes that she should not bear the financial burden of the pregnancy. Therefore, the intending parents are legally required to cover her medical bills and provide an insurance policy to protect her health during the term and for a specified period after delivery.
Why R explains A:
The Reason (R) defines the specific financial boundaries of "altruistic surrogacy." It explains why the process is considered non-monetary: because the only funds exchanged are strictly for healthcare and protection (expenses), rather than for profit or compensation (income).
Key Legal Context: The 2021 Act
Ban on Commercial Surrogacy: The Act was passed to prevent the exploitation of women and the "commodification" of children.
Eligibility: Previously, only close relatives could be surrogates. However, recent judicial interventions and rules have slightly expanded the criteria, though the "altruistic" nature remains the core requirement.
Intending Parents: They must be a married couple (woman aged twenty three to fifty, man aged twenty six to fifty five) or a widow/divorcee (aged thirty five to forty five) with a certificate of essentiality.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
