Donor conception refers to fertility treatment using eggs, sperm or embryos from someone other than the intending parent(s), used in IUI, IVF or ICSI. In India, donor gametes and embryos must be obtained through an ART bank registered under the ART (Regulation) Act, 2021, which is responsible for donor recruitment, screening and record-keeping; ART clinics cannot source donors directly outside this system. Donor conception is used for reasons such as absent or non-functioning eggs or sperm, some genetic conditions, or same-sex or single-parent family building where legally permitted. Eligibility to access donor gametes, and who may be a recipient, is governed by the ART (Regulation) Act, 2021 and related rules. This is general information about India's ART and surrogacy framework and is not personalised legal advice. India legal information last reviewed: 9 September 2026.
Also known as: third party donor treatment, using a donor to conceive
Related India guides
Sources
- Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021, with the ART (Regulation) Rules and subsequent amendments and notifications (indiacode.nic.in; artsurrogacy.gov.in)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.