GS-2:Development Processes and the Development Industry — the Role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.

In News:IT action on NGOs with foreign funding: While watching for enemies, don’t miss the ones within

2.Critically analyse the role of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in shaping public policy and governance in India. What are the challenges they face in maintaining accountability while advocating for social causes?

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) play a significant role in shaping public policy and governance in India, often acting as intermediaries between the government and the community. Their contributions can enhance democratic processes by advocating for social causes. However, they face numerous challenges that complicate their effectiveness and accountability.

Role of NGOs in shaping public policy and governance

1. Advocacy and representation
   ● NGOs represent marginalised communities, influencing policy decisions and advocating for rights, such as women’s protection laws.
   ● The National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights has successfully lobbied for the implementation of laws protecting Dalit rights, influencing policy changes at both state and national levels.
2. Service delivery
   ● They provide essential services in healthcare and education, especially in rural areas where government reach is limited.
   ● Smile Foundation provides healthcare services to underprivileged children
3. Monitoring and accountability
   ● NGOs monitor government actions and expenditures, ensuring transparency and highlighting inefficiencies or corruption.
   ● The Assam Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) utilised RTI applications to expose corruption in public distribution systems, leading to significant government accountability measures.
4. Capacity building
   ● They empower communities through training and resources, enabling effective engagement in governance processes.
   ● SEWA (Self-Employed Women’s Association) empowers women in the informal sector through training programs and self-help groups, enhancing their skills and economic independence.

Challenges faced by NGOs

1. Regulatory constraints
   ● Stringent regulations under the FCRA limit operational flexibility, with many NGOs losing their licences since 2014.
2. Lack of transparency
   ● Concerns arise over misappropriation of funds and accountability, leading to public mistrust in some organisations.
   ● In 2019, the Centre for Public Integrity (CPI) exposed several NGOs that had misappropriated foreign funds
3. Political pressure
   ● NGOs may face political backlash, with governments viewing certain activities as contrary to national interests.
4. Dependency on foreign funding:
   ● Many NGOs rely heavily on foreign funding, which can make them vulnerable to external pressures and influence. This can raise questions about their independence and commitment to Indian interests.
   5.Competition with government agencies:
   ● NGOs often compete with government agencies for resources and influence. This can create tensions and hinder collaboration.
5. Impact of bureaucratic processes
   ● Bureaucratic hurdles slow project implementation, increasing costs and stifling innovation in addressing community needs.

Way forward :

1. Exploring alternative funding avenues, including crowdfunding, social enterprises, and corporate partnerships, to reduce dependency on foreign funds.
2. Working closely with government agencies to enhance collaboration.
3. Implementing robust financial reporting and auditing practices to build public trust and demonstrate accountability.
4. Adopting ethical codes of conduct and preventing corruption.
5. Investing in training programs for NGO staff to enhance skills in project management, governance, and advocacy.

PYQ

1. Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenges of this alternative model.2021
2. Examine critically the recent changes in the rules governing foreign funding of NGOs under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976. 2015
3. How can the role of NGOs be strengthened in India for development works relating to protection of the environment? Discuss throwing light on the major constraints.2015

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/it-action-on-ngos-with-foreign-funding-while-watching-for-enemies-dont-miss-the-ones-within-9613244/