Abandoned, 3-year-old child in Gujarat gets home in US

AHMEDABAD: Three-year-old boy, Kishan, was all smiles on Saturday when John and Kristen Castill, residents of South Carolina in the US, took him in tow to the district collector office to get his passport. The couple — a teacher and a nurse — adopted the child after a yearlong process. They are expected to fly soon, said adoption agency officials.

Kishan was found from the city streets about three years ago and he’s been with the Odhav observation home for past two years. K K Nirala, district collector, wished Kishan and the couple for their better future. “He was loved by everyone at the centre. I would also like to thank the support staff that raises these kids,” he said.

Talking about the adoption process, the Castills told reporters that they had been trying for the past couple of years for the adoption. “I have always loved India for the people, culture, beauty and diversity. That is the reason my husband and I applied for adoption in India. This way, we can be part of this cultural experience. Kishan is the perfect completion to our family,” said Kristen.

John added that the child is a ‘gift from the above’ and he was meant to be with them. The adoption agency officials said that they conduct regular follow-ups with adopted parents and kids to ensure well-being of the child.

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