Collaborative efforts among NGOs, Government bodies and other stakeholders are vital for building a more inclusive, equitable and developed society
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have become integral architects of societal development, leaving an indelible mark on key development indicators and fostering community growth. NGOs act as catalysts for change, addressing gaps in transformation, supporting marginalised groups, delivering essential services, and persuading better policy decisions. Their functions encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from education and healthcare to women's empowerment and environmental sustainability.
In India, NGOs have led transformative projects, positively impacting development indicators. Education-focused initiatives contribute to increased literacy rates; healthcare projects lead to lower maternal and child mortality; and women empowerment programmes positively affect gender equality. According to a survey conducted by the Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA), as of 2021, 26.5% of NGOs are engaged in religious activities, while 21.3% work in community and/or social services. About one in five NGOs works in education, while 17.9% are active in the fields of sports and culture, and only 6.6% work in the health sector.
Additionally, access to clean water, sanitation, and sustainable environmental practices are also areas where NGOs contribute significantly. According to the Great Place to Work India report, about 80% of NGOs in India primarily focus their efforts on promoting quality education, ensuring good health and well-being, and working towards eradicating poverty.
Furthermore, in the complex landscape of Indian democracy, the nearly 3.4 million NGOs play a pivotal role in bridging gaps left by state initiatives. Beyond disaster relief, NGOs engage in diverse activities, addressing issues ranging from human rights to environmental conservation. During the COVID-19 crisis, they provided essential aid to vulnerable populations, showcasing their agility in responding to urgent needs. Functioning as enablers, NGOs collaborate with self-help groups, amplifying the impact of grassroots initiatives. They empower marginalised communities, enabling them to demand quality services and ensure accountability in governance.
NGOs have significantly influenced participative governance, contributing to the formulation of landmark laws, including the Environmental Protection Act of 1986 and the Right to Education Act of 2009. Acting as social mediators, NGOs intervene at societal levels, challenging prevailing norms and fostering awareness. In a society steeped in superstition, faith, and custom, they serve as catalysts for change, shaping attitudes and behaviours.
Despite their significant contributions, NGOs grapple with challenges such as limited funding, operational hurdles, and the need for sustainable models. Overcoming these challenges requires resilience and innovation as NGOs seek creative solutions to address the evolving needs of the communities they serve.
A study reveals that Indian NGOs face significant challenges hindering their effectiveness. Poor financial planning impedes community development programmes, necessitating stronger financial strategies. The absence of standardised legal models exacerbates financial fragility, jeopardising sustainability. Inadequate investment in human resources, coupled with negligence of staff retention, stems from a short-term focus on project management. Employee retention challenges and insufficient funds for incentives impact morale. Weak HR management, resource mismanagement, and a limited understanding of governance principles further hinder NGOs. To address these, the central government must liberalise grant rules. NGOs should establish HR guidelines, prevent fund misuse, and avoid political interference. Embracing innovation and technology while focusing on community-building can enhance NGO impact in India.
Collaboration is the key for NGOs to amplify their impact. Partnerships with government bodies, corporate entities, and other NGOs enhance the reach and effectiveness of initiatives. Successful collaborations leverage the strengths of each partner, leading to comprehensive and sustainable solutions to complex social issues. Embracing technology, fostering community engagement, and investing in capacity building are among the best practices adopted by NGOs.
For example, The GROW Fund has initiated ongoing capacity-building and organisational development sessions, empowering NGOs to grasp the significance of monitoring, systematic engagement with vendors, and data analytics. This has played a pivotal role in fostering a holistic understanding of organisational strengths and identifying areas for improvement. Another important area to explore for NGOs is cultivating community-based institutions and providing local training. This empowers NGOs to plan, implement, and assess developmental projects effectively, fostering innovative solutions to local challenges. By embracing community-driven approaches, NGOs can access local resources and gain increased support from the people they serve.
(The writer is a member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha & former Minister of State for GAD, Education, Health, and WCD in the Government of Maharashtra; views are personal)
