Topic : Development processes and the development industry —the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.
2. While the FCRA has increased bureaucratic control and oversight over the functioning of NGOs in India, it has deteriorated the spirit of unity and cooperation that had been ushered in by such organisations in development of social sectors in the country. Explain with relevant cases. (250 words)
Reference: Deccan Herald
Why the question:
The article talk about the blow to NGO’s based on the report published by Centre for Social Impact and Philanthropy.
Key Demand of the question:
Critically examine in what way FCRA has increased bureaucratic control and oversight over the functioning of NGOs in India, it has deteriorated the spirit of unity and cooperation that had been ushered in by such organisations in development of social sectors in the country.
Directive:
Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
One can start with the fact that The Centre For Social Impact and Philanthropy in its report has pointed out that there will not only be an increase in school dropouts and child marriages but also a decrease in immunization and access to healthcare due to the economic downturn induced by Covid-19.
Body:
Start explaining how the amendments in FCRA pose grave concerns to the development of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in India.
The thresholds for administrative expenses of NGOs have been reduced from 50% to 20%. Imposing such a cap not only results in ‘legislative overreach’ but will also adversely affect think tanks and NGOs where the expenses for providing services to the to the social sector are counted as ‘overheads’. This will greatly hamper innovation, impact measurement, and livelihood of workers at such organisations. It is also believed that the said cap on expenses result in the closing down of multiple small-scale NGOs that are responsible for vital works among the commons.
Discuss the impact in detail.
Suggest what needs to be done to address the issue at hand.
Conclusion:
Conclude that NGOs often play a crucial role in filling the void created by the inadequacies of the government in its developmental schemes. Hence, undermining the efforts of NGOs by imposing such paralyzing restrictions on them might lead to the downfall of eco-system of NGOs in India.
