Surrogacy gives birth to new hope

NEW DELHI: The conversation is halting and prodded on by an enthusiastic Dr Anoop Gupta, who booms, "Get to know each other, now!'' But Maria and Andrew (names changed), British citizens of African origin have already warmed up to Seema, (name changed), the 35-year-old from Gorakhpur who has offered herself as a surrogate mother for the assisted birth of their child. Her bright red bindi, sindoor and the presence of her husband at the meeting are reassuring signs of a good woman, worthy of carrying their baby.

The couple has waited 10 childless years before making the difficult decision...