Paper short abstract:

Study of the impact of the interplay between the domestic and international market, the state and the society in the context of the practice of commercial surrogacy on the poor women in India.

Paper long abstract:

The nature of state in India changed with time and it couldn't keep itself aloof from the globalized world. Various sectors benefited from it, however the dark side was not considered by many. One such sector is commercial surrogacy. Many childless couples are turning to India for surrogate mothers as the cost is very low and there are no strict laws to be adhered. The industry exists in a liberal market economy, where private agencies run and manage the practice with little government interference. The surrogate mothers are paid very less and the huge share of the profit goes to the agency and clinic. The practice has been legalized by the state and the law is more in favor of the couple and not in favor of the surrogate. Hence, it can be argued that the state is playing the role of a facilitator in the exploitation. The practice of commercial surrogacy has led to three major problems. Firstly, it is controlling the reproductive rights of the women. Secondly, the selection of the surrogate mothers on the basis of their caste also has the potential of affecting these women which can further lead to the deepening of caste division. Lastly, the state by legalizing the practice of commercial surrogacy has also snatched away the right to individual choice of the poor women.