Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956

The Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act (HAMA) was enacted in India in 1956 as part of the Hindu Code Bills. Other legislations enacted during this time include the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, the Hindu Succession Act, 1956, and the Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956. All of these acts were introduced under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, and were intended to codify and standardise the prevailing Hindu legal tradition. The Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act of 1956 specifically addresses the legal process of child adoption by a Hindu adult, as well as the legal obligations of a Hindu to provide "maintenance" to various family members, including their wife, parents, and in-laws.