Civil society organizations (CSOs) or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are voluntary organizations without profit-making objectives that have been active in India in various areas such as cultural promotion, education, health, and natural disaster relief. According to a survey conducted by Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA), about 1.5 million NGOs work in India. However, CSOs are facing various issues and challenges in recent days. In this essay, we will discuss the changing regulations for CSOs, issues with the move, and suggestions for the government, NGOs, and young activists.
Changing Regulations for CSOs
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act was amended by the current government in 2020, giving the government tighter control and scrutiny over the receipt and utilization of foreign funds by NGOs. The new regulations include the following:
- All NGOs seeking foreign donations have to open a designated FCRA account at the SBI branch.
- Foreign contribution has to be received only through banking channels and accounted for in the manner prescribed.
- Donations given in Indian rupees by any foreign source including foreigners of Indian origin like OCI or PIO cardholders should also be treated as foreign contributions.
- NGOs must give an undertaking that the acceptance of foreign funds is not likely to prejudicially affect the sovereignty and integrity of India or impact friendly relations with any foreign state and does not disrupt communal harmony.
- The government has warned CSOs against using representative visuals for fundraising activities concerning development issues such as malnutrition, and non-profits are not allowed to depict vulnerable children.
Issues of the Move
CSOs are facing several issues due to the changing regulations:
- The ability of civil society to shape policy and public discourse has shrunk drastically, as civil society is seen to be the new frontier for war and foreign interference.
- Financial constraints imposed on CSOs have caused resource starvation, leading to job losses and a lack of conscientious youngsters who naturally need some financial sustenance.
- Without sustained support, CSOs cannot positively mold public discourse or make a tangible impact on the nation at large, which adversely impacts organizational morale.
- The net result is that civil society will be unable to speak truth to power, amplify the voices of the most vulnerable, enrich policies/legislation through constructive feedback, or further the collective good.
Suggestions
For the government:
- The governments should realize that some of its prominent acts or laws, such as the Right to Information Act, The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, and the National Food Security Act, among others, will remain relevant if the foundations of civil society are strong.
- Any attempt to disturb civil society will be tantamount to diluting these laws.
- Any stringent measures would also adversely impact the monitoring of the implementation of various government schemes, such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, etc.
For NGOs:
- Post new FCRA laws, many organizations have already started looking up to local resource mobilization (LRM) and are largely focused on corporate funding through corporate social responsibility (CSR).
- Civil society should explore how to encourage more collective giving, a form of charitable giving where groups pool their donations to create larger funds to tackle problems.
- There is increasing awareness that increased use of data and digital technology can make charities stronger and even better at what they do.
For young activists:
- Young activists could be inducted into political parties, either within the party organization or in an aligned body. This could create an institutionalized moral force within the parties (which could balance electoral compulsions with ethical/human rights considerations).
- This would afford parties a layered systemic approach to thorny issues.
Why In News
Civil society organisations (CSOs) in India are currently facing a plethora of challenges, ranging from limited funding, restricted access to information, and government crackdowns on dissent. Despite these hurdles, CSOs have continued to play a vital role in advocating for human rights, promoting social justice, and driving positive change in society. However, it is crucial for the government and other stakeholders to support and protect the work of CSOs, as they serve as a crucial voice for the marginalized and vulnerable communities in the country.
MCQs about Civil Society Organizations in India
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What is the primary objective of civil society organizations in India?
A. To advocate for policies and programs
B. To raise awareness about social issues
C. To mobilize citizens for social change
D. To conduct research and analysis
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Which of the following is NOT a challenge faced by civil society organizations in India?
A. Government regulations and restrictions
B. Limited funding and resources
C. Lack of public support and engagement
D. Access to technology and digital infrastructure
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Which of the following is an example of a civil society organization in India?
A. The Indian National Congress
B. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry
C. The Tata Trusts
D. The Indian Council of Medical Research
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What is the significance of civil society organizations in India?
A. They play a crucial role in promoting democracy and human rights
B. They provide direct services and support to citizens
C. They regulate and monitor government activities
D. They promote economic development and growth
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