Give in kind, not cash

DonateKart is an online crowdsourcing platform that helps NGOS collect products they require

Volunteering during the 2015 Chennai floods gave Anil Reddy an insight: Most donations in kind are wasteful. Also, if people can buy products for themselves online, why can't they buy them and get them delivered to those in need?

Mr. Reddy and his friend, Sandeep Sharma, who were then students of Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology in Nagpur, turned their backs on a lucrative career through campus placements, and decided to do something about the problem that vexed Mr. Reddy. With funds cobbled together from their savings and help from friends, they launched DonateKart in December 2016, soon after they completed their engineering.

The idea behind the online venture was simple: People are often skeptical about donating money to NGOs because they don't get to see the impact. DonateKart aims to bring in clarity and transparency to the process, so more people will contribute to charities. Rather than seek a sum of money for a cause, DonateKart helps NGOs start crowd-sourcing campaigns by listing the products they need on their website. From stationery, blankets, groceries and utensils to medical equipment, NGOs can raise anything for free. The beneficiaries are the underprivileged, even as the website aims to serve government-recognised NGOs in the social space.

Mr. Reddy says, "Donatekart is a crowdfunding platform that lets anyone donate products to NGOs. As 70% of the money raised by NGOs is usually used in procuring products, we are making these donations transparent by helping NGOs get the products directly from donors using our platform."

Over a year, the venture has expanded to a team of eight, and has helped 80 NGOs raise products worth Rs. 40 lakh, from nearly 2,000 donors.

Linking NGOs, donors

"We believe in completely revolutionising the philanthropic space so that donors can contribute only to credible NGOs," says co-founder Sandeep Sharma.

The e-commence platform organises a reverse bidding drive, collaborating with vendors across the country. In the usual bidding process, consideration is given to the one who gives the money. Here, the receivers of goods are given priority.

Here's how the process works: Whenever any NGO approaches DonateKart to launch an online campaign for the cause that they look to address, they provide them with a list of products. The NGOs can then share this catalogue — which includes 700 different products that any NGO might require — on Donatekart. The NGOs then pick the required quantity of the product they need and start a campaign for a time period of about 30-45 days.

Under this timeline, the NGO promotes the campaign on social media, with hashtags, emails, tweets and other ways to keep donors in the loop. The donors on their part can visit the website and choose the products they want to donate. They then pay for these products online. "At the end of the campaign, whatever product donations the NGO gains, are delivered to them. The donors are later given updates with photos and videos," says Mr. Reddy.

The NGO takes care of the campaign promotions on Donatekart. "We help them, by suggesting tried-and-tested techniques to get more donations. Further assistance includes making posters, writing content and emails. NGOs have marked a 3x increase in their donor base and contributions due to these efforts," says Mr. Reddy.

Donors, too, find the system useful. Hari Repala, a donor who lives in the US, said the platform made it easy for him to contribute. "I want to help people, but am reluctant to donate money. DonateKart allowed me to donate products and ensured that it got to the needy."

Overcoming Odds

One of the major challenges during the initial days was explaining the concept of DonateKart to NGOs. "While approaching NGOs, we were mistaken for some of the others in the field who ask for donations. Eventually, we got around to propagating the idea of DonateKart being a mediating platform, that helps them raise campaigns and donate."

Mr. Reddy says DonateKart is a self-sustaining platform, with no commission in the picture. With the support of Zone Startups India, a startup accelerator, DonateKart runs a number of campaigns in Mumbai.

The founders had no doubts about starting their venture in Mumbai. "Since there are multiple NGOs and corporate offices in Mumbai, it becomes easier to reach out to all the stakeholders. We aim to acquaint people with the idea of crowdfunding. We try to instill transparency and clarity in charity," says Mr. Sharma.

For the moment, DonateKart is focused children and education, and recently ventured into personal causes and animal welfare. "There is also a lot of potential in religious causes, where donors need transparency in terms of how their donations are utilised," says Mr. Reddy.

In the next few months, DonateKart aims to bring more NGOs to the platform. "We have plans to hire more people. Till now we have seen growth simply on then back of word-of-mouth publicity. Now we will go out and talk about the model we have built," says Mr. Reddy.

https://www.donatekart.com

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/give-in-kind-not-cash/article19166531.ece

Workshop on GST & FCRA Compliances

Dear Colleagues,

Greetings!

Goods & Service Tax Act (GST) is set to become a reality from 1st July, 2017. The questions that come along with it are:

·           Are you GST ready

·           Are you covered as a non-profit organization?

·           What are CGST, SGST, IGST, ITC etc and how do they impact us?

·           Reverse charge mechanism & its impact on non-profit organizations

·           How is Income tax and GST linked and what are its implications…..etc

We are pleased to announce a Series of "Workshops on GST & FCRA Compliance" at 4 locations in the given below dates:

S.no

Place of workshop

Date of workshop

1 New Delhi 19th July 2017

2 Kolkata 17th August 2017

3 Hyderabad 5th September 2017

4 Bangalore 6th September 2017

*Kindly note the revised date for Kolkata workshop

In these workshops, apart from GST, we would also discuss about recent changes in FCRA Law and key areas to remain FCRA Compliant as well.

Please book your seats if not done so far, kindly register by Clicking on this link .  Please note that due to limited seats, we would close registrations as soon as the seats are booked.

Regards

Dr. Sanjay Patra
Executive Director

Click in this link to register : 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1XybUoKluRH2Ut0oKRVZRfsehNrEZ6lx86C5fqEZPSSs/viewform?edit_requested=true

DECLARE ST TERESA'S BIRTHDAY 'COMPASSION DAY': MUMBAI NGO TO UN

Mother Teresa came to India at the age of 19 years and made it her home. Mother Teresa received numerous honours, including the Ramon Magsaysay Peace Prize in 1962 and Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Mother Teresa was admired by many for her charitable work during her life and after death.
 
Mumbai: A Mumbai-based NGO on Tuesday urged the United Nations to declare August 26, the birth anniversary of St Mother Teresa, International Compassion Day.

In a statement, Harmony Foundation President Abraham Mathai said compassion is the need of the hour and what better way to have the world observe International Day of Compassion than by celebrating it on the birth anniversary of Mother Teresa, "whose life symbolised compassion and hope".

"The Harmony Foundation has decided to celebrate August 26 as the International Day of Compassion to commemorate Mother Teresa's work among the poorest, hungry, homeless, crippled, lepers and the most unwanted people of society shunned by all. We have written to the UN to likewise declare the day in honour of her selfless services," Mathai said.

The NGO said it will work towards a world of "compassion without border" by launching acts of compassion in India and abroad on August 26.

"We are galvanising school and college students, community members from the rural areas to Mumbai to prepare a Care Package for Kashmiri refugees in Mumbai and Syrian and South Sudanese refugees around the world. The package would comprise a small toy, school stationery, dental care items and other essentials," he said.

It has identified NGOs in Jordan and South Sudan and is reaching out to other governments, aid agencies and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to help with the logistics of taking the Care Packages to the intended beneficiaries.

Additionally, in collaboration with several organisations, the NGO is planning long-term sustainable solutions for refugee children, their education, health and rehabilitation.

Since 2005, Harmony Foundation has been hosting Mother Teresa Memorial Awards annually -- the only award in her name approved by the Missionaries of Charity, Kolkata, founded by her in 1950 -- to outstanding people from all over the world who excel in various humanitarian endeavours.

Some of the past recipients of the award include The Dalai Lama and Pakistani girls' education activist Malala Yousafzai, The White Helmets, Zeenat Shaukat Ali of Pakistan's Wisdom Foundation and Kashmir's Rukhsana Kausar.

Mother Teresa was canonised as a Saint on September 4 2016, by Pope Francis.

Source: http://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/mumbai/other/declare-st-teresas-birthday-compassion-day-mumbai-ngo-to-un/articleshow/59339351.cms

 

Dutch civil society groups prodded govt to confront Modi on foreign funding of NGOs

NEW DELHI: Days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Netherlands, Dutch civil society organisations involved in advocacy of human rights, Dalit upliftment and prevention of child-labour were actively lobbying with their government to confront Modi on the alleged marginalisation of minorities, restrictions on foreign funding of NGOs and violation of labour rights in India.

India Committee of the Netherlands (ICN), a human rights organisation claiming to be dedicated to improving the lives of the marginalised in south Asia, wrote an open letter to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on June 24, drawing his attention to the increase in "marginalisation of minority groups such as Dalits, Christians and Muslims". ICN director Gerard Oonk, who signed the letter, particularly referred to cow vigilantism, while accusing the Indian government of largely ignoring related violence.

"We urge you to ask PM Modi to actively promote the rights of minorities and to speak out against the violence of the Hindu extremist groups," wrote Oonk.

Also complaining against restrictions imposed on Indian NGOs getting foreign funding under the Foreign Contributions Regulation Act, 2010, ICN warned that this might "disproportionately affect those organisations engaged in critical human rights work, those which address issues of government accountability and good governance, or represent vulnerable and minority populations or views". A special mention was made of the recent FCRA ban on Navsarjan trust, an ICN partner that claims to work for Dalit rights but is now unable to receive money from foreign donors.

 


Incidentally, the ICN's comment that freedom of critical human rights and environmental organisations working in India is under pressure comes amid four key Dutch NGOs being put in the prior permission category over the past few years. This means that all their donations to Indian NGOs must be approved by the Union home ministry. These list include Cordaid, which Indian agencies claim was involved in activities aimed at creating unrest in north-east India by lobbying against violence against women, dams and oil-drilling. Another Dutch NGO, Hivos, Indian intelligence agencies point out, was funding some north-east insurgent groups. Similarly, IKV Pax Christi, was put on prior permission after Indian agencies reported that it had been funding Kashmiri organisations and some fringe separatists between 2009 and 2012. ICCO, also among the 21 foreign NGOs in the prior permission list, is known to take over funding lines of the other Dutch NGOs in times of trouble with Indian tax authorities or FCRA authorities.

Interestingly, Hivos and ICCO fund ICN, an intelligence source told TOI.

As part of lobbying in Dutch parliament ahead of Modi's visit, its member Voordewind (Christian Union), submitted a set of parliament questions to Dutch PM and minister of foreign affairs on June 22. In one of these questions, he asked if Modi's attention would be drawn to the "restrictive FCRA, which causes Dutch development organisations to face major problems in financing their Indian partner organisations".

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/dutch-civil-society-groups-prodded-govt-to-confront-modi-on-foreign-funding-of-ngos/articleshow/59342684.cms

Coca-Cola joins hands with Odisha NGO partners to keep world famous Rath Yatra festival at Puri clean and litter-free

Puri: Approximately 3 million people congregate every year in Puri to witness and take part in the world famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath. Along comes tonnes of plastic/PET waste littered by devotees and tourists attending the festival. Little do we care about the plastic waste generated and its ill-effect on the ecology, but there are 30 volunteers who will spend the next few days segregating solid waste generated during the Puri Rath Yatra.

Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB)has joined hands with the National Service Scheme Volunteers of Puri, volunteers from NGO PECUC and HCCB Career Development Centreto assist the local administration in its effort to keep the festival clean and litter-free. As a part of the program, there are blue and green bins that have been installed along the Rath Yatra route and in other parts of the town, so that devotees have no inconvenience in responsibly discarding used plastic bottles. However, if there are some plastic bottles that are still littered, volunteers deployed by Hindustan Coca-Cola and PECUC, will make all efforts to collect, segregate and dispose the plastic waste into the designated bins. These volunteers will also educate the travelers and devotees at Puri on waste segregation and responsible disposal. Similar arrangements have been made at the Puri beach to prevent marine litter of plastic. At the beach, the volunteers will focus on educating children and sensitizing adults on plastic waste segregation and disposal. The volunteers will particularly be keen on educating children on aspects of waste segregation and value of PET, since children act as major change agents, at time even influencing adults. Used plastic bottles (PET) are 100% recyclable and are of significant value even after use, because these used plastic bottles can be recycled into making T-shirts, jackets, shoes, toys, decorative items, interior decoration materials and many others.

Hindustan Coca-Cola has undertaken similar activities at other major festivals and events during the previous year, namely during the Mission Green Sabrimala in Kerala and at the Godavari Pushkaralu Festival in Rajmundhry. Both these programs were undertaken in partnership with the local district administration and local NGO partners. Buoyed by the success and response to these programs, Hindustan Coca-Cola took the initiative of promoting PET recycling at the Puri Rath Yatra festival, for the first time.
The key elements of this joint initiative are:

• 'Zero Plastic Waste Puri Rath Yatra' – a volunteer march in Puri with hundreds of volunteers prior to the festival to sensitize the public about the need to dispose plastic responsibly done a day prior to the beginning of the Rath Yatra
• Formation of a dedicated team of 30 plastic waste collectors to recover plastic waste during the ongoing festival and supplement the efforts of the municipal administration. With a focus on segregating plastic waste at the first point of collection the team will be educating the public and promoting responsible PET recycling on the 24th, 25th & 27th of June
• The Company is also supporting the Puri municipal corporation by providing 30 identifiable Blue Coloured Plastic collection bins to be deployed in the Puri Beach Area for segregating collection of PET waste right at the source and therby promote recycling. The initiative will also see a team of 30 youth volunteers encouraging people to dispose plastic responsibly rather than litteringthe beach on the 24th, 25th & 27th of June
All the PET bottles collected under the above programs shall be sent for recycling, thereby managing the PET waste in a sustainable manner and converting it from waste to wealth.

Source: https://orissadiary.com/coca-cola-joins-hands-odisha-ngo-partners-keep-world-famous-rath-yatra-festival-puri-clean-litter-free/

Crackdown on NGOs: PM Modi may face tough questions from US

Three months after Christian charity organisation Compassion International was forced to shut its operations in India following a government directive, the Indian side may be asked some tough questions from US interlocutors on the crackdown on NGOs during Prime Minister Narendra Modis stay in the US.

Influential US Congressman and chairman of the House Foreign Affairs committee, Ed Royce, said, The US-India partnership is critically important, and thats why I hope Prime Minister Modi will take time to listen to those who are concerned about crackdowns on non-governmental organisations, including the shuttering of Compassion International that was providing critical tutoring, nutrition and medical services to more than 145,000 Indian children.

Royce has been at the forefront of those critical of the Indian governments actions against NGOs, especially Compassion International.

Source: http://www.nagpurtoday.in/crackdown-on-ngos-pm-modi-may-face-tough-questions-from-us/06261511

Narendra Modi US visit: PM Modi may face tough questions on crackdown on NGOs

Almost three months after Christian charity organisation Compassion International had to shut its operations in the country after a directive from the Centre, the US may ask some tough questions to the Indian side on the crackdown on NGOs.

Narendra Modi US visit: Almost three months after Christian charity organisation Compassion International had to shut its operations in the country after a directive from the Centre, the US may ask some tough questions to the Indian side on the crackdown on NGOs during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit in US. US Congressman and chairman of the House Foreign Affairs committee, Ed Royce, was quoted as saying by Indian Express, "The US-India partnership is critically important, and that's why I hope Prime Minister Modi will take time to listen to those who are concerned about crackdowns on non-governmental organisations, including the shuttering of Compassion International that was providing critical tutoring, nutrition and medical services to more than 145,000 Indian children."

He was among  those critical of Narendra Modi government's actions against NGOs, mainly Compassion International. With the Donald Trump administration has a strong base in the conservative constituency in the US, the visit of the prime minister may give an opportunity for the administration to raise the issue. President and CEO of Open Doors USA David Curry, wrote in The Hill, a news outlet on American politics, on Saturday that a question is looming from PM Narendra Mosi, who is on visit as to what Donald Trump would say  "about the rise in brutal persecution of Christians, Muslims and other religious minorities in India? "

"Having recently returned from India, I witnessed firsthand accounts of pastors imprisoned and churches attacked by mobs of Hindu radicals, not to mention the abysmal saga of Compassion International, wherein the Indian government's crackdown-on this and other organizations-has led to tens of thousands of children throughout India losing access to medical care, meals and tuition," he wrote further. There has no meeting scheduled so far between US Congressman Royce and PM Modi. Officials maintained that both PM Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump will focus on  "big picture".

Earlier this year, Royce and some other members of the US Congress had written to Home Minister Rajnath Singh, urging him to grand permission  to charity organisation Compassion International to continue its work in India.

Source: http://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/narendra-modi-us-visit-pm-modi-may-face-tough-questions-on-crackdown-on-ngos/735722/

Crackdown on NGOs: Delhi may face tough questions

In March this year, Royce and more than 100 members of the US Congress had written to Home Minister Rajnath Singh, asking him to allow US-based charity Compassion International to continue its work in India.

Three months after Christian charity organisation Compassion International was forced to shut its operations in India following a government directive, the Indian side may be asked some tough questions from US interlocutors on the crackdown on NGOs during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's stay here.

The Prime Minister, who arrived in Washington DC Saturday night, will meet US administration officials Sunday onward and US President Donald Trump Monday.

Influential US Congressman and chairman of the House Foreign Affairs committee, Ed Royce, told The Indian Express, "The US-India partnership is critically important, and that's why I hope Prime Minister Modi will take time to listen to those who are concerned about crackdowns on non-governmental organisations, including the shuttering of Compassion International that was providing critical tutoring, nutrition and medical services to more than 145,000 Indian children."

Royce has been at the forefront of those critical of the Indian government's actions against NGOs, especially Compassion International.

Since the current US administration has a strong base in the conservative constituency in the US, Modi's visit may give an opportunity for the administration to raise this issue. While it is highly unlikely that Trump may raise the issue, other key administration officials may raise this with the Prime Minister and his official delegation, US officials indicated.

David Curry, president and CEO of Open Doors USA, a global advocate for persecuted Christians, wrote in The Hill, a DC-based news outlet on American politics, on Saturday: "As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet with President Trump this week, a question is looming: what will President Trump say about the rise in brutal persecution of Christians, Muslims and other religious minorities in India? Can we expect the President to bring this issue to light, or let it linger in the shadows? Having recently returned from India, I witnessed firsthand accounts of pastors imprisoned and churches attacked by mobs of Hindu radicals, not to mention the abysmal saga of Compassion International, wherein the Indian government's crackdown-on this and other organizations-has led to tens of thousands of children throughout India losing access to medical care, meals and tuition."

There are no meetings scheduled between US Congressman Royce and Modi so far, and officials maintained that this will be the first Modi-Trump meeting and the two leaders will focus on the "big picture".

In March this year, Royce and more than 100 members of the US Congress had written to Home Minister Rajnath Singh, asking him to allow US-based charity Compassion International to continue its work in India.

Compassion International was forced to terminate its service to India after nearly 50 years of work there, after the Ministry of Home Affairs issued an inter-bank circular preventing all commercial banks in India from processing CI's wire transfers without prior Ministry approval. As a result, Compassion was unable to process the funds it needed to continue, and was forced to close its sponsorship programmes on March 15 this year.

In the letter written in March, US Congressmen led by Royce had said that as long-time supporters of the US-India partnership, "we have worked diligently to deepen ties between our two countries. As the largest and oldest democracies in the world, India and the United States share bonds rooted in political pluralism and respect for the rule of law. It is with this in mind that we write to express our deep concern over the lack of transparency and consistency in your government's enforcement of the Foreign Contributions Regulations Act."

Compassion International has worked in India since 1968, and its programmes support over 145,000 Indian children, providing critical tutoring, health and nutrition, and medical services. Being a faith-based child sponsorship NGO based in Colorado, it has served nearly two million children living in extreme poverty across 26 countries worldwide.

In February 2016, the Indian government had issued an order against Compassion, preventing funds from reaching its local church partners in India. "These restrictions appear to be religiously motivated. Compassion is an unapologetically Christian organization that seeks to serve children in poverty as a response to its faith. The decision is disappointing because Compassion accepts and serves children and families in India of all faith backgrounds and rigorously follows Indian law," an official of Compassion International said.

In March, Santiago Jimmy Mellado, CEO of Compassion International, wrote to its sponsors, "As we navigate this difficult moment in Compassion's history, I am flooded with emotions. I am heartbroken for sure, over the 147,000 babies, children, young adults and mothers who will no longer receive the benefits of Compassion's program. I am distraught over the partnerships with 589 churches that will come to an end. I am concerned for our 127 staff members who have committed their careers to helping the poorest of the poor in their own communities."

Indian government officials, however, maintained that any NGO, foreign or Indian, has to operate in India, or for that matter anywhere else in the world, within the laws of the country. Officials have also said that the government had been fully transparent in this regard, including in conversations with Compassion International's officials concerned.

Source: http://indianexpress.com/article/india/crackdown-on-ngos-delhi-may-face-tough-questions-4722039/

Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Vijay Goel flags off 2nd Slum Yuva Daud to highlight government’s pro-people schemes

Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Vijay Goel here today
flagged off 2nd Slum Yuva Daud. The marathon started from Cross River
Mall, Karkardooma and ended at Yamuna Sports Complex. More than 5000
youth participated in today's marathon. BJP National General Secretary
Arun Singh also graced the occasion. The Slum Yuva Daud is part of the
Adopt Slum Campaign initiated by the Ministry of Youth Affairs &
Sports and Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan.

Shri Goel said, government under the leadership of Prime Minister
Narendra Modi has always encouraged young players to utilize their
skills in sports and shine. He said, these events enable us to gather
the youth and know about their skills and ideas. We would organize
mini-fests in slums with the themes of Swachhta, Digital India, Beti
Bachao Beti Padao etc. He said, Government aims at creating model
slums and create groups of youth who will work as agents of change to
work for the development of their respective slums/areas.

The Slum Yuva Daud and Adopt a Slum campaign aim at highlighting the
government's pro-people schemes among masses. Goel further stated that
the "Adopt a Slum" campaign will involve groups like NSS, public
schools, RWAs, NGOs and rotary clubs etc.

The third mega slum youth marathon will take place on tomorrow from
Kasturba Gandhi polytechnic (Pitampura) where renowned wrestler and
two-time Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar will join the flag off ceremony
with Sports Minister Goel.

Cyber crimes against children can now be reported at the POCSO e-Box

Child victims of cyber crimes can now lodge their complaints at National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)'s POCSO e-box. Considering the growing menace of cyber crimes targeting children, NCPCR has now enhanced the scope of POCSO e-box to handle cyber bullying, cyber stalking, morphing of images and child pornography.

Child victims themselves or their friends, parents, relatives or guardians can report cyber crimes by pressing the e-box button available at the Commission's website, www.ncpcr.gov.in  They can also register their complaints on email id: pocsoebox-ncpcr@gov.in  or mobile no.: 9868235077.

Child abuse is finding new forms and channels through mobile and digital technologies. In India about 134 million children have access to mobile phones and the number is growing very fast with even faster access to internet. While this provides opportunities for accessing useful material for learning purposes, lack of digital literacy and online safety measures expose children to hazards of cyber crime.

POCSO e-box is an easy and direct medium for reporting of child sexual abuse under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

Developed by NCPCR, POCSO e-box was launched by Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt. Maneka Sanjay Gandhi last year.

Govt may penalise NGOs who fail to file FCRA returns

The Union Home Ministry warned 1,927 NGOs about initiating a penal action if they fail to verify their foreign contribution designated bank accounts.

 The Union Home Ministry warned 1,927 NGOs about initiating a penal action if they fail to verify their foreign contribution designated bank accounts. Over 20,000 voluntary organisations are registered with the government for getting foreign aid.
 
According to the rules, voluntary organisations need to be registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) to receive overseas financial aid. It should be received in a single designated bank account.
 
The ministry has already asked 2,025 NGOs to validate their accounts within the fortnight on June 7 and provide audited statements of their accounts, including income and expenditure statements.
 
The Home Ministry is likely to penalise more than 10,000 NGOs who have failed to give annual statements of their accounts. It has already given a one-time opportunity to 18,523 NGOs in May to provide details of their income and expenses for five years, reported a leading news agency.

Source:  http://www.indiainfoline.com/article/news-top-story/ngo-govt-may-penalise-ngos-who-fail-to-file-fcra-returns-117062400092_1.html

Home Ministry Threatens to Penalise 1,900 NGOs Over FCRA Compliance

New Delh: The Union home ministry has warned over 1,900 NGOs of penal action for their failure to validate their foreign contribution designated bank accounts.

All eligible non-government organisations (NGOs) should receive donations from abroad in a single designated bank account, according to rules. Voluntary organisations have to be registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act or FCRA to receive financial aid from abroad.

On June 7, the ministry asked 2,025 NGOs to validate their accounts within the fortnight.

"It is, however, seen that a large number of associations have still not validated their foreign contribution designated bank accounts," the home ministry said this week in its notice to defaulting NGOs.

Asking NGOs to validate their bank accounts immediately, the notice added, "Please note that non-compliance may lead to penal action as per the FCRA rules."

A total of 1,927 NGOs have not yet verified their bank accounts, according to the ministry.

In another order, all NGOs receiving foreign grants have been asked to give audited statements of their accounts, including income and expenditure statements with the government.

Such NGOs are mandated to give the details for every financial year beginning April 1 within nine months of closure of the financial year.

Over 20,000 voluntary organisations are registered with the government for getting foreign aid.

The home ministry is mulling the future course of action against more than 10,000 NGOs who have failed to give annual statements of their accounts.

A total of 18,523 NGOs were in May this year given a one- time opportunity to provide details of their income and expenses for five years – 2010-11 to 2014-15 – by June 14.

However, only 8,267 NGOs filed returns for all the five years. The remaining 10,256 NGOs have still not filed all the returns and may lose their registration, official sources have said.

Source: https://thewire.in/150732/ngos-penal-action-home-ministry-fcra/

Govt reminder to NGOs: Validate accounts for foreign funds

The Union home ministry has sent a reminder to NGOs and associations that have failed to validate their foreign contribution designated bank accounts as well as utilisation accounts despite its instructions on June 7.

Citing its June 7 circular calling upon all associations that have not validated their foreign contribution designated accounts to comply with the FCRAFCRR provisions in this regard, the home ministry, in a fresh circular issued on Wednesday , asked them to do so immediately and send details like name of the bank, branch code, account number, IFSC etc online in form FC-6.

"It is... seen that a large number of associations have still not validated their foreign contribution designated accounts," it said and listed 1,927 defaulting NGOs.

On June 7, this list had 2,025 associations. This means only 98 NGOs have complied with the June 7 instruction asking them to validate their FCRA designated accounts and utilisation accounts within 15 days.

"Please note that non-compliance may lead to penal action as per the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010, and rules made thereunder," the circular warned.

All associations registered under Section 12 of FCRA, 2010, must receive foreign contributions in a single FCRA designated account.Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Rules further require all banks to report to the Centre all such receiptutilisation of foreign funding by the associations within 48 hours.

The MHA, in its June 7 circular, had pointed out that nonvalidation of foreign contribution designated accounts by many associations was causing problems for banks to comply with the provisions of FCRA and FCRR relating to reporting of receipts and utilisation of foreign funding by such associations within 48 hours.

Source: http://epaperbeta.timesofindia.com/Article.aspx?eid=31808&articlexml=Govt-reminder-to-NGOs-Validate-accounts-for-foreign-23062017019031

Govt warns over 1,900 NGOs of penal action for not filing FCRA returns

The Union home ministry has warned over 1,900 NGOs of penal action for their failure to validate their foreign contribution designated bank accounts

 

New Delhi: The Union home ministry has warned over 1,900 NGOs of penal action for their failure to validate their foreign contribution designated bank accounts.

All eligible non-government organisations (NGOs) should receive donations from abroad in a single designated bank account, according to rules.

Voluntary organisations have to be registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act or FCRA to receive financial aid from abroad.

On 7 June, the ministry asked 2,025 NGOs to validate their accounts within the fortnight. "It is, however, seen that a large number of associations have still not validated their foreign contribution designated bank accounts," the home ministry said this week in its notice to defaulting NGOs.

Asking NGOs to validate their bank accounts immediately, the notice added, "Please note that non-compliance may lead to penal action as per the FCRA rules."

A total of 1,927 NGOs have not yet verified their bank accounts, according to the ministry.

In another order, all NGOs receiving foreign grants have been asked to give audited statements of their accounts, including income and expenditure statements with the government.

Such NGOs are mandated to give the details for every financial year beginning 1 April within nine months of closure of the financial year. Over 20,000 voluntary organisations are registered with the government for getting foreign aid.

The home ministry is mulling the future course of action against more than 10,000 NGOs who have failed to give annual statements of their accounts. A total of 18,523 NGOs were in May this year given a one- time opportunity to provide details of their income and expenses for five years -- 2010-11 to 2014-15 -- by 14 June.

However, only 8,267 NGOs filed returns for all the five years. The remaining 10,256 NGOs have still not filed all the returns and may lose their registration, official sources have said.

Source: http://www.livemint.com/Politics/3fZQd2eetO7KREwj61akaL/Govt-warns-over-1900-NGOs-of-penal-action-for-not-filing-FC.html

Home ministry warns over 1,900 NGOs of penal action

New Delhi, Jun 23 () The Union home ministry has warned over 1,900 NGOs of penal action for their failure to validate their foreign contribution designated bank accounts.

All eligible non-government organisations (NGOs) should receive donations from abroad in a single designated bank account, according to rules. Voluntary organisations have to be registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act or FCRA to receive financial aid from abroad.

On June 7, the ministry asked 2,025 NGOs to validate their accounts within the fortnight.

"It is, however, seen that a large number of associations have still not validated their foreign contribution designated bank accounts," the home ministry said this week in its notice to defaulting NGOs.

Asking NGOs to validate their bank accounts immediately, the notice added, "Please note that non-compliance may lead to penal action as per the FCRA rules."

A total of 1,927 NGOs have not yet verified their bank accounts, according to the ministry.

In another order, all NGOs receiving foreign grants have been asked to give audited statements of their accounts, including income and expenditure statements with the government.

Such NGOs are mandated to give the details for every financial year beginning April 1 within nine months of closure of the financial year.

Over 20,000 voluntary organisations are registered with the government for getting foreign aid.

The home ministry is mulling the future course of action against more than 10,000 NGOs who have failed to give annual statements of their accounts.

A total of 18,523 NGOs were in May this year given a one- time opportunity to provide details of their income and expenses for five years -- 2010-11 to 2014-15 -- by June 14.

However, only 8,267 NGOs filed returns for all the five years. The remaining 10,256 NGOs have still not filed all the returns and may lose their registration, official sources have said. AKV MIN

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/home-ministry-warns-over-1900-ngos-of-penal-action/articleshow/59283843.cms

Govt reminder to NGOs: Validate accounts for foreign funds

The Union home ministry has sent a reminder to NGOs and associations that have failed to validate their foreign contribution designated bank accounts as well as utilisation accounts despite its instructions on June 7.

Citing its June 7 circular calling upon all associations that have not validated their foreign contribution designated accounts to comply with the FCRAFCRR provisions in this regard, the home ministry, in a fresh circular issued on Wednesday , asked them to do so immediately and send details like name of the bank, branch code, account number, IFSC etc online in form FC-6.

"It is... seen that a large number of associations have still not validated their foreign contribution designated accounts," it said and listed 1,927 defaulting NGOs.

On June 7, this list had 2,025 associations. This means only 98 NGOs have complied with the June 7 instruction asking them to validate their FCRA designated accounts and utilisation accounts within 15 days.

"Please note that non-compliance may lead to penal action as per the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010, and rules made thereunder," the circular warned.

All associations registered under Section 12 of FCRA, 2010, must receive foreign contributions in a single FCRA designated account.Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Rules further require all banks to report to the Centre all such receiptutilisation of foreign funding by the associations within 48 hours.

The MHA, in its June 7 circular, had pointed out that nonvalidation of foreign contribution designated accounts by many associations was causing problems for banks to comply with the provisions of FCRA and FCRR relating to reporting of receipts and utilisation of foreign funding by such associations within 48 hours.

Source: http://epaperbeta.timesofindia.com/Article.aspx?eid=31808&articlexml=Govt-reminder-to-NGOs-Validate-accounts-for-foreign-23062017019031

 

Govt warns over 1,900 NGOs of penal action for not filing FCRA returns

The Union home ministry has warned over 1,900 NGOs of penal action for their failure to validate their foreign contribution designated bank accounts

 

New Delhi: The Union home ministry has warned over 1,900 NGOs of penal action for their failure to validate their foreign contribution designated bank accounts.

All eligible non-government organisations (NGOs) should receive donations from abroad in a single designated bank account, according to rules.

Voluntary organisations have to be registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act or FCRA to receive financial aid from abroad.

On 7 June, the ministry asked 2,025 NGOs to validate their accounts within the fortnight. "It is, however, seen that a large number of associations have still not validated their foreign contribution designated bank accounts," the home ministry said this week in its notice to defaulting NGOs.

Asking NGOs to validate their bank accounts immediately, the notice added, "Please note that non-compliance may lead to penal action as per the FCRA rules."

A total of 1,927 NGOs have not yet verified their bank accounts, according to the ministry.

In another order, all NGOs receiving foreign grants have been asked to give audited statements of their accounts, including income and expenditure statements with the government.

Such NGOs are mandated to give the details for every financial year beginning 1 April within nine months of closure of the financial year. Over 20,000 voluntary organisations are registered with the government for getting foreign aid.

The home ministry is mulling the future course of action against more than 10,000 NGOs who have failed to give annual statements of their accounts. A total of 18,523 NGOs were in May this year given a one- time opportunity to provide details of their income and expenses for five years -- 2010-11 to 2014-15 -- by 14 June.

However, only 8,267 NGOs filed returns for all the five years. The remaining 10,256 NGOs have still not filed all the returns and may lose their registration, official sources have said.

Source: http://www.livemint.com/Politics/3fZQd2eetO7KREwj61akaL/Govt-warns-over-1900-NGOs-of-penal-action-for-not-filing-FC.html

Home Ministry issues fresh circular to NGOs to validate their foreign contribution designated bank account

NEW DELHI: The Home Ministry has sent a reminder to NGOs and associations that have failed to validate their foreign contribution designated bank accountas well as utilisation account despite its instructions dated June 7, 2017.

Reminding the associations of its June 7 circular calling upon all associations that have not validated their foreign contribution designated accounts to comply with the FCRA/FCRR provisions in this regard, the Home Ministry, in a fresh circular issued on Wednesday, asked them to do so immediately and send details like name of the bank, branch code, account number, IFSC etc online in form FC-6.

"It is seen that a large number of associations have still not validated their foreign contribution designated accounts," it noted listing 1,927 defaulting NGOs. On June 7, this list had 2,025 associations. This means that only 98 NGOs have complied with the June 7 instruction asking them to validate their FCRA designated account and utilisation account within the next 15 days.
 
"Please note that non-compliance may lead to penal action as per the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 and Rules made thereunder," the new circular warned.

All associations registered under Section 12 of FCRA, 2010, must receive foreign contributions in a single FCRA designated account. Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Rules further require all banks to report to the Centre all such receipt/utilisation of foreign funding by the associations within 48 hours.

The Home Ministry, in its June 7 circular, had pointed out that non-validation of foreign contribution designated accounts by many associations was causing problems for banks to comply with the provisions of FCRA and FCRR relating to reporting of receipts and utilisation of foreign funding by such associations within 48 hours.

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/home-ministry-issues-fresh-circular-to-ngos-to-validate-their-foreign-contribution-designated-bank-account/articleshow/59273641.cms

 

Don't Slip Up On Rules, Home Ministry Warns Foreign-Funded Non-Profits

The home ministry directive follows an assessment that shows less than 8,000 organisations had reported their funding for the last quarter of 2017 that ended on March 31.

Keeping up the pressure on foreign-funded non-profits, the Union Home Ministry has told them to start declaring on their websites how much money they receive from abroad. This declaration has to be made every three months, the Union Home Ministry told the non-governmental organisations on Wednesday.

The home ministry directive follows an assessment that shows less than 8,000 organisations had reported their funding for the last quarter of 2017 that ended on March 31.

In a public notice issued to the non-profits, the ministry recalled that the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) 2010 required them to not just make annual reports to the government but place quarterly reports on their websites.

"It is, however, noticed that most of the organisations who have received foreign contribution, have not complied with the requirements of the above mentioned rule," the notice issued by the Home Ministry's Mukesh Mittal said.


According to the home ministry's website, 33,000 non-profits are registered to receive foreign funds. But the real number is expected to be between 20,000 and 25,000 due to non-renewal of the permits by the home ministry last year.


A few years back, there were 40,000-odd organisations registered with the government but only half of them received foreign funds. In 2015, the government had cancelled permits for 10,000 organisations; most of them were either defunct or were not interested in retaining the licence.

But it isn't just foreign-funded organisations alone that are being monitored closely. The government told the Supreme Court in April that Niti Aayog is working on guidelines to regulate non-profits which receive public funds as well.

Source: http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/dont-slip-up-on-rules-home-ministry-warns-foreign-funded-non-profits-1715878

Over 10,000 NGOs set to face Home Ministry crackdown over foreign funding

The MHA in May had given 18,523 NGOs a one-time opportunity to furnish details of their income sourced from abroad. MHA had asked these agencies to declare income and its source from abroad by June 14.

Over 10,000 Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) have come under the scanner of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for not declaring their source of funding from foreign countries and they may even lose their license required to get grants from other nations. The MHA in May had given 18,523 NGOs a one-time opportunity to furnish details of their income sourced from abroad. MHA had asked these agencies to declare income and its source from abroad by June 14.

The MHA had asked these NGOs to declare income received from abroad from the 2010-11 financial year to 2014-15 financial year – a time frame of five years. Out of the 18,523 NGOs who were asked to furnish details only 8,267 NGOs filed details with the Ministry of Home Affairs an official told the Indian Express. The 10,256 NGOs which have failed to file the details are under examination. According to the official, the ministry will decide whether to give these NGOs an extension to furnish details or to revoke the license of these NGOs.

Out of the aforementioned 10,256 NGOs, 2,239 have filed details for four years, 2,071 have filed details for three years, 2,057 have filed details for two years and 2,339 NGOs have only filed details for a single year, according to the report.

The Home Ministry had told these NGOs that they may lose their license if they do not divulge details of the funds they have received from other countries. Mukesh Mittal, Joint Secretary (Foreigners), had in an order stated "Failure to upload returns for these five years will lead to cancellation of licenses which are issued or renewed".

According to the Indian Express report, the NGOs could upload their missing returns between May 15 and June 14. There are 20,000 NGOs registered under the FCRA.

Source: http://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/over-10000-ngos-set-to-face-home-ministry-crackdown-over-foreign-funding/729225/

7 innovative ways to raise funds for your NGO according to Impact Guru

Although the large majority of funding for NGOs is still done offline, online platforms offering this crowdfunding service are playing an important part in the increasing role of technology within the nonprofit sector

NGOs need funds. It's as simple as that. Raising them is a different story. With the rise in non-profit competition, gaining funds is becoming a denser marketplace to crack. Amongst the clamour and competition, the smarter NGOs are having to come up with new and increasingly more innovative ways to compete with each other for that ever-important cash.  Let's see what these innovative ideas really mean when we're standing head on in the fierce fundraising race.

1. Crowdfunding

Although the large majority of funding for NGOs is still done offline, online platforms offering this crowdfunding service are playing an important part in the increasing role of technology within the nonprofit sector. A trend that has taken off globally over the last decade, online crowdfunding is fast becoming one of the most viable sources of funding for social good.

2. Competitions

Smart NGOs are leveraging initiatives and competitions that are being run through various online platforms, fundraising portals or associated bodies. Such initiatives may offer some form of financial benefit for competing in a fundraising challenge,  or boast various tax benefits for the participants.

3. Go mobile

It's no secret that mobile usage is fast outgrowing desktop, the majority of web traffic is accessed through mobile already. Its vital then to maximise the platforms hat not only you're ready to take donations online, but also that your page is mobile compatible.

4. Tax Saving

To encourage people to donate to good causes, the Indian Income Tax Department allows donors to claim tax exemption under Section 80G on the amount donated to charities and NGOs. This offers a great opportunity for savvy NGOs to capitalise on this and provides a USP to gain donors and draw in funds, particularly around the tax saving season.

5. Jump on the bandwagon

Popular trends and hot topics create a great opportunity for you to capitalise on the talking point and direct the audience towards your cause. Keep a lookout on social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook for trending topics that you could utilise to point towards your cause.

6. Reward your donors

Give something back to your donors. Not necessarily a free gift, although if you can afford it then giving the option for a small branded item acts as a consistent reminder of your brand to the donor and will work towards building a brand presence. Try partnering with larger consumer brands to finance this.

7. Love loyalty

Don't forget to nurture the loyalty of repeat donors. Create a reason for them to keep coming back to donate. This might be through loyalty schemes, or encouraging them to donate again by gifting vouchers or coupons. Similarly to above, contact corporates to partner with for this.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the publication

Source: https://mybigplunge.com/opinion/innovative-ways-to-raise-funds-according-to-impact-guru/

NGOs, clubs will face higher taxes on fundraisers, charity events under GST

Mumbai: Beginning July 1, the Goods and Services Tax will play spoilsport to fundraisers or charity events organised by non-government organisations (NGOs).

As total landed cost of holding such events would increase by at least 20 per cent, there will likely be a decline in hosting them, an Economic Times report said.

Clubs and NGOs that hold fundraisers or meetings will not be able to get an input credit on the food expenses under GST, unlike the current tax regime where they receive sales tax credit.

Apart from that, NGOs are complaining that they won't get any input credit on GST paid on subscription fees paid by their members.

Clubs such as Rotary Club and Lions Club fear that under GST there could be double taxation for them.

Read: What is GST and how will you benefit from it?

The idea behind double taxation implies that clubs, NGO's will have to pay 18 per cent GST on subscription fees of their members. While under the current tax regime, they receive an input credit of around 10.15 - 14.5 per cent on food and beverages costs at a fundraising event, the same will not hold once the indirect tax regime takes effect.

The GST framework does not allow credit for expenses incurred for activities that may not be directly construed as related to business. This includes expenses incurred for food and beverages.

Sources stated that many clubs would try to create structures that can bypass the GST regulations.

Source: http://www.timesnow.tv/business-economy/article/club-ngo-holding-fundraiser-charity-higher-tax-gst-double-taxation/63861

Future of 10,000 NGOs uncertain over issue of filing I-T returns

All NGOs need to register themselves with the ministry of home affairs under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) in order to receive foreign funding.

Fate of around 10,000 NGOs registered with the Union home ministry to receive foreign funding is hanging in the balance as they have yet not been able to comply with the condition of submitting their annual returns for the last five years.

All NGOs need to register themselves with the ministry of home affairs under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) in order to receive foreign funding. All these NGOs are required to file annual details of their income and expenses.

About four years ago, there were around 42,500 NGOs registered under the FCRA. But according to the government, there were only 33,300 NGOs registered under the forex act as on December 31 last year. Their number may come down further.

Last month, the ministry had given as many as 18,523 NGOs one-time opportunity to file their missing annual returns. "But till June 15, only 8267 NGOs managed to submit their returns for the period between 2010 and 2015. For the rest of 10526 NGOs, the ministry is yet to take a final call," said a home ministry spokesperson.

The official clarified there are 1,549 NGOs, which have not submitted return for even one year, while 2,339, 2,057, 2,079 and 2,239 NGOs have submitted their returns for one, two, three and four years, respectively. "The home ministry will not take a lenient view in this regard," said the spokesperson. The ministry had given time to the NGOs to submit their returns till June 14.

Source: http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/future-of-10-000-ngos-uncertain-over-issue-of-filing-i-t-returns/story-tbYE3V7A158EovQw55LbjI.html

Over 10,000 NGOs set to face Home Ministry crackdown over foreign funding

The MHA in May had given 18,523 NGOs a one-time opportunity to furnish details of their income sourced from abroad. MHA had asked these agencies to declare income and its source from abroad by June 14.

Over 10,000 Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) have come under the scanner of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for not declaring their source of funding from foreign countries and they may even lose their license required to get grants from other nations. The MHA in May had given 18,523 NGOs a one-time opportunity to furnish details of their income sourced from abroad. MHA had asked these agencies to declare income and its source from abroad by June 14.

The MHA had asked these NGOs to declare income received from abroad from the 2010-11 financial year to 2014-15 financial year – a time frame of five years. Out of the 18,523 NGOs who were asked to furnish details only 8,267 NGOs filed details with the Ministry of Home Affairs an official told the Indian Express. The 10,256 NGOs which have failed to file the details are under examination. According to the official, the ministry will decide whether to give these NGOs an extension to furnish details or to revoke the license of these NGOs.

Out of the aforementioned 10,256 NGOs, 2,239 have filed details for four years, 2,071 have filed details for three years, 2,057 have filed details for two years and 2,339 NGOs have only filed details for a single year, according to the report.

The Home Ministry had told these NGOs that they may lose their license if they do not divulge details of the funds they have received from other countries. Mukesh Mittal, Joint Secretary (Foreigners), had in an order stated "Failure to upload returns for these five years will lead to cancellation of licenses which are issued or renewed".

According to the Indian Express report, the NGOs could upload their missing returns between May 15 and June 14. There are 20,000 NGOs registered under the FCRA.

Source: http://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/over-10000-ngos-set-to-face-home-ministry-crackdown-over-foreign-funding/729225/

10,000 NGOs may face action for not filing FCRA returns

NEW DELHI: The home ministry is contemplating penal action against around 10,000 NGOs that have not filed their missing annual returns under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Rules, 2011, for all for some years between 2010-11 to 2014-15, despite the one-month grace window offered by the home ministry to do the same. Ministry sources said as many as 286 NGOs that were yet to file the returns for a single year upon expiry of grace period on June 15, 2017, could face cancellation of registration under the Foreign Contributions Regulation Act (FCRA) and review of renewal already granted. For the remaining defaulters with partial compliance, action is still being discussed and may be graded depending on the level of compliance.

The home ministry had, upon noticing that as many as 18,523 NGOs registered under FCRA had not filed their annual returns for some or all five years between 2010-11 and 2014-15, issued a public notice on May 12 asking them to file the same between May 15 and June 15. While describing it as a last chance for the defaulting NGOs, the ministry had assured them that no late fee would be imposed for late filing of returns.

Of the 18,523 defaulting NGOs as on May 14, 2017, as many as 1,835 had not filed returns for all five years in question, 5,766 had not done so for four years, 4,379 for three years, 3,398 for 2 years and 3,145 for one year.

At the end of the grace period, while 8,267 NGOs completely fell in line by filing annual returns for all five years, 2,239 did so for four missed years, 2,072 for three years, 2,057 for two years and 2,339 for one year. As many as 1,549 of the 1,835 NGOs who had not filed annual returns for a single year between 2010-11 to 2014-15, in gross violation of FCRA and Rule 17 of FCRR, have done so now.

Home ministry sources said the ministry is contemplating a graded response depending on the extent of compliance by the aforesaid NGOs, with the 286 defaulters yet to file a single return most likely to face cancellation of registration and review of renewal already granted. "As for the remaining, the likely penal action is still being discussed....Chances are that a graded penalty may be imposed, with the NGOs that have filed returns for four of five years being shown leniency and those who have filed returns for just one year facing tougher penalty," said a home ministry spokesperson.

There are roughly around 25,000 NGOs in the country registered under FCRA.

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/10000-ngos-may-face-action-for-not-filing-fcra-returns/articleshow/59246858.cms

10,000 More NGOs To Lose Their FCRA Licence Because They Failed, To File Their Annual Returns.

The Union Home Ministry is Examining if the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) Licences of over 10,000 NGOs should be Cancelled, as they have not Complied with the Center's Order to File Annual Returns under 5 Categories. While over 8,000 NGOs did File their Returns under all the 5 Formats, most did not Comply Entirely.

NGOs that Receive Foreign Grants are Required to get a FCRA Licence & File 5 Annual Return Forms. There are over 20,000 NGOs Registered under the FCRA.

Since the NDA Government came to Power, the FCRA Licences of more than 11,000 NGOs have been Cancelled. More than 1,300 were Refused Renewal of their Licence for Violations of the FCRA.

'Deemed Expired'

In May this Year, the Home Ministry gave 18,523 NGOs whose Licences were "Deemed Expired" on Account of Non-Compliance, a 1 Time Opportunity to give Details of their Income & Expenses by June 14. The NGOs were asked to Submit their Annual Returns for 5 Years, from 2010-11 to 2014-15. However, so far only 8,267 NGOs have Filed such Returns, a Ministry Spokesperson said.

The Home Ministry is Examining what Action it could take against the Remaining 10,256 NGOs that have still not Filed all the Returns. 1 of the Options it's Considering is Cancelling their Registration.

Government Warning

A Home Ministry Spokesperson said that 2,239 NGOs had Filed Returns for 4 Years, 2,071 for 3 Years, 2,057 for 2 Years, & 2,339 for 1 Year. The Ministry had earlier Warned these NGOs that they might Lose their Registration if they Failed to give all the Details.

"The Last Date for Uploading Annual Returns for 2010-11 to 2014-15 is June 14, 2017. Failure to Upload all Annual Returns will lead to Cancellation of Registration/Renewal already Granted," Joint Secretary (Foreigners) in the Home Ministry Mukesh Mittal had said in an Order.

The Ministry had said that Starting May 15 & till June 14, NGOs could Upload their Missing Annual Returns along with the Requisite Documents within 30 Days. No Compounding Fee would be Imposed on them for Late Filing of Annual Returns during this Period, & this Exemption was a 1 Time Measure.

As per the Rules, the Renewal of Registration for Receiving Foreign Aid cannot be Granted unless the Organisation Uploads its Annual Returns to the FCRA Website.

Source: http://www.worldtvnews.co.in/?p=169400

Failure to furnish income details: Over 10,000 NGOs under MHA scanner

The ministry had said that between May 15 and June 14, all NGOs could upload their missing annual returns along with the requisite documents.

With many non-government organisations (NGOs) failing to furnish details of their income and expenditure to the government, more than 10,000 of them have come under the scanner of the Home Ministry and may end up losing the licence required to receive any foreign grant.

As many as 18,523 NGOs were given a one-time opportunity by the MHA in May this year to furnish details of their income and expenses by June 14.

The NGOs, which are registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act or FCRA, which allows them to receive financial aid from abroad, were told to submit their annual returns for five years—2010-11 to 2014-15. However, only 8,267 NGOs filed such returns for all the five years, an official said.

The remaining 10,256 NGOs have still not filed all the returns but their details are under examination. A decision whether to give them another opportunity or cancel their licenses will be taken after the analysis, the official added.

There are 2,239 NGOs, which have filed returns for four years, 2,071 for three years, 2,057 for two years and 2,339 for one year, said the official.

The Home Ministry had earlier warned the NGOs that they will lose the registration if they fail to furnish the details. "The last date for uploading annual returns for 2010-11 to 2014-15 is June 14, 2017. Failure to upload the annual returns will lead to cancellation of registration/renewal already granted," joint secretary (foreigners) in the Home Ministry, Mukesh Mittal, had said in an order.

The ministry had said that between May 15 and June 14, all NGOs could upload their missing annual returns along with the requisite documents. No compounding fee will be imposed on them for late filing of annual returns during this period and this exemption was a one-time measure.

According to the rules, the renewal of registration for receiving the foreign aid cannot be granted unless the annual returns are uploaded to the FCRA website by the organisation. There are over 20,000 NGOs registered under the FCRA, the official said.

Source: http://indianexpress.com/article/india/failure-to-furnish-income-details-over-10000-ngos-under-mha-scanner-4714202/

10,000 more NGOs may lose licence

May not have filed annual returns

The Union Home Ministry is examining if the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) licences of over 10,000 NGOs should be cancelled, as they have not complied with the Centre's order to file annual returns under five categories. While over 8,000 NGOs did file the returns under all the five formats, most did not comply entirely.

NGOs that receive foreign grants are required to get a FCRA licence and file five annual return forms. There are over 20,000 NGOs registered under the FCRA.

Since the NDA government came to power, the FCRA licences of more than 11,000 NGOs have been cancelled. More than 1,300 were refused renewal of their licence for violation of the FCRA.

'Deemed expired'

In May this year, the Home Ministry gave 18,523 NGOs whose licences were "deemed expired" on account of non-compliance, a one-time opportunity to give details of their income and expenses by June 14. The NGOs were asked to submit their annual returns for five years, from 2010-11 to 2014-15. However, so far only 8,267 NGOs have filed such returns, a Ministry spokesperson said.

The Home Ministry is examining what action it could take against the remaining 10,256 NGOs that have still not filed all the returns. One of the options it's considering is cancelling their registration.

Govt. warning

A Home Ministry spokesperson said that 2,239 NGOs had filed returns for four years, 2,071 for three years, 2,057 for two years, and 2,339 for one year. The Ministry had earlier warned these NGOs that they might lose their registration if they failed to give all the details.

"The last date for uploading annual returns for 2010-11 to 2014-15 is June 14, 2017. Failure to upload all annual returns will lead to cancellation of registration/renewal already granted," joint secretary (foreigners) in the home ministry Mukesh Mittal had said in an order.

The Ministry had said that starting May 15 and till June 14, NGOs could upload their missing annual returns along with the requisite documents within 30 days. No compounding fee would be imposed on them for late filing of annual returns during this period, and this exemption was a one-time measure.

As per the rules, the renewal of registration for receiving foreign aid cannot be granted unless the organisation uploads its annual returns to the FCRA websi

Source: http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/10000-more-ngos-to-lose-fcra-licence/article19110087.ece

Over 10,000 NGOs set to face Home Ministry crackdown over foreign funding

The MHA in May had given 18,523 NGOs a one-time opportunity to furnish details of their income sourced from abroad. MHA had asked these agencies to declare income and its source from abroad by June 14.

Over 10,000 Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) have come under the scanner of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for not declaring their source of funding from foreign countries and they may even lose their license required to get grants from other nations. The MHA in May had given 18,523 NGOs a one-time opportunity to furnish details of their income sourced from abroad. MHA had asked these agencies to declare income and its source from abroad by June 14.

The MHA had asked these NGOs to declare income received from abroad from the 2010-11 financial year to 2014-15 financial year – a time frame of five years. Out of the 18,523 NGOs who were asked to furnish details only 8,267 NGOs filed details with the Ministry of Home Affairs an official told the Indian Express. The 10,256 NGOs which have failed to file the details are under examination. According to the official, the ministry will decide whether to give these NGOs an extension to furnish details or to revoke the license of these NGOs.

Out of the aforementioned 10,256 NGOs, 2,239 have filed details for four years, 2,071 have filed details for three years, 2,057 have filed details for two years and 2,339 NGOs have only filed details for a single year, according to the report.

The Home Ministry had told these NGOs that they may lose their license if they do not divulge details of the funds they have received from other countries. Mukesh Mittal, Joint Secretary (Foreigners), had in an order stated "Failure to upload returns for these five years will lead to cancellation of licenses which are issued or renewed".

According to the Indian Express report, the NGOs could upload their missing returns between May 15 and June 14. There are 20,000 NGOs registered under the FCRA.

Source: http://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/over-10000-ngos-set-to-face-home-ministry-crackdown-over-foreign-funding/729225/

NGO helps financially disadvantaged students pursue higher studies

Currently, TPO funds undergraduate courses, such as Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science, among others, which require comparatively lesser fees than professional courses, like engineering.

As students prepare to join colleges soon, dreams of many remain unfulfilled due to financial constraints.
City-based Prasad Narayan's The Power of One (TPO) — a non-profit educational trust — aims to reach out to such students. Narayan, president and managing trustee of TPO, said, "TPO was started in October 2016, where people were requested to keep aside one rupee a day. The aim was to enable people to have 365 rupees each by the end of the year, This money can then by donated to children who have done well in Class XII but do have the financial support for further studies. Initially, it was only family members, friends and well wishers who supported the initiative, but gradually the network grew."

As many as 10 students will be financially supported this academic year. Among them, three are from night colleges — Amar Shinde (scored 80 per cent); Vitthal Deshmukh (scored 79 per cent) and Santosh Padnekar (scored 78 per cent). The trust has paid their fees for the first year of college and will also be sponsoring their education for the remaining two years. Currently, TPO funds undergraduate courses, such as Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science, among others, which require comparatively lesser fees than professional courses, like engineering.

"TPO aims at educating more people and helping them gain a degree, so they don't drop out of school after finishing Class XII," said Narayan.

Narayan had worked in the IT sector for 20 years. He is now a visiting faculty with educational institutes, such as Tata Institute of Social Science, Sri Balaji Society, Maharashtra Institute of Technology and Academy of Engineering.
Unlike other non-governmental organisations, TPO has no minimum donation value, he said.

He added: though initially, the plan was to fund only Class XII passouts, when I read about a child who had passed his SSC with good scores after studying under the streetlights, the trust decided to fund for his education too.

Source: http://indianexpress.com/article/education/ngo-helps-financially-disadvantaged-students-pursue-higher-studies-4716181/

IED Coordinator

Organisation:  Govt of Odisha

Apply By:  27 Jun . 2017

Location:  (Odisha)

Application are invited from eligible candidates for filling up of various post as mentioned below under RTE-SSA, Deogarh district on contract basis with a consolidated remuneration mentioned against the post.

Post:  IED Coordinator

Qualification: Must be a Graduate with 1st. Division from any recognized university with Diploma or professional degree in special Education.

Monthly Remuneration: Rs. 9300 + Rs. 4200 + DA & Other allowances

For more information please check the Link : http://ordistportalcontent.nic.in/storeddata/results/ORIDBRH_RESULTS_2017_7095.pdf

EOI from Reputed Voluntary Organization/ NGO For The Scheme Of NGO Scheme Under “National Programme For Control Of Blindness (NPCB)

Organisation:  Govt of West Bengal

Apply By:  26 Jun. 2017

The District Health & Family Welfare Samity, Diamond Harbour Health District is inviting "Expression of Interest" from reputed voluntary Organization/ NGO for the scheme of NGO scheme under "National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB)" at Diamond Harbour Health District for one year as a Recurring Grant in Aid.

Eligibility Criteria:

Registered Under The Indian Societies Registration Act 1860
Having Well Trained Staff, Infrastructure And The Required Managerial Expertise To Organize And Carry Out Various Activities Under The Scheme; And Having Own Base Hospital As Requisite Of NPCB.
The Base Hospital Must Have In Patient Department & Updated Clinical Establishment License.
Track Record Of Having Experience In Providing Health Service In Eye Care Services Over A Period Of 3 Years.
Properly Constituted Managing Body With Its Powers Duties And Responsibilities Clearly Defined And Laid Down In A Written Constitution.
Must Have Unique ID In NGO Darpan Of NITI Aayog
Willingness To Follow RTI Act 2005

The interested VO/NGO are requested to submit their EOI along with self attested hard copies of all the relevant documents through speed post only to the office of the CMOH Diamond Harbour Health District PO & PS Diamond Harbour Pin 743331 within 26/06/17

For more information please check the Link : https://www.wbhealth.gov.in/uploaded_files/tender/27741.pdf

NGO empowers 17 lakh families in 17 years

Bandhan-Konnagar, a not-for-profit organisation which has been working in the fields of education, health andwomen empowerment, today celebrated "Development Day" on completion of 17 years of its existence. Since 2001, the organisation has transformed the lives of 1.7 million families spread across 11 states of India -- West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Assam, Tripura, Jharkhand, Chhattishgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. So far, its various development programmes have benefited at least 8.5 million people. The organisation has 735 branches spread across 10,356 villages. Its 2,100 employees are actively involved in welfare of the poor as well as in the fields of education, health and women empowerment. The Development Day event was attended by Mr. Bruce Bucknell, British Deputy High Commissioner, Kolkata and Mr Jawhar Sircar, IAS & Ex CEO of Prasar Bharati.In the key note address at the event, Chandra Shekhar Ghosh, Founder & Mentor, Bandhan-Konnagar, said: "I am proud to share with you that in past 17 years we have touched lives of around 17 lakh families, in 11 Indian states. The journey of 17 years is dotted with many milestones and a few setbacks. Setbacks motivated us, and success gave us inspiration. Serving the underprivileged is an integral part of our plans to achieve inclusive growth."Bandhan-Konnagar is registered under the West Bengal Societies Act, 1961. The main objective of the organization is to empower poor people and alleviate poverty. To achieve that, it offers a suite of development programmess in the fields of education, health, livelihood promotion, skills development and financial literacy. The organisation constantly strives to widen its scope of services and minimize areas of income leakage in poor families.UNI PL RN 1529

Source: http://news.webindia123.com/news/Articles/India/20170618/3127915.html

FCRA Registration

FCRA

Applicability

WHO CAN RECEIVE FORIGN CONTRIBUTION?

A 'person', As Defined In Section 2(1) (m) With The Exclusion Of Those Mentioned In Section 3 Of FCRA, 2010, Having A Definite Cultural, Economic, Educational, Religious Or Social Program Can Receive Foreign Contribution After It Obtains The Prior Permission Of The Central Government, Or Gets Itself Registered With The Central Government.

Explanation 3 Of Section 2(h) Of FCRA, 2010, The Following Is Not Covered In The Definition Of Foreign Contribution:

"Any Amount Received, By Any Person From Any Foreign Source In India, By Way Of Fee (including Fees Charged By An Educational Institution In India From Foreign Student) Or Towards The Cost In Lieu Of Goods Or Services Rendered By Such Person In The Ordinary Course Of His Business, Trade Or Commerce Whether Within India Or Outside India Or Any Contribution Received From An Agent Of A Foreign Source Towards Such Fee Or Cost Shall Be Excluded From The Definition Of Foreign Contribution Within The Meaning Of This Clause."


WHO CANNOT RECEIVE FOREIGN CONTRIBUTION?

As Defined In Section 3(1) Of FCRA, 2010, Foreign Contribution Cannot Be Accepted By Any:

a Candidate For Election;
correspondent, Columnist, Cartoonist, Editor, Owner, Printer Or Publisher Of A Registered Newspaper;
Judge, Government Servant Or Employee Of Any Corporation Or Any Other Body Controlled On Owned By The Government;
member Of Any Legislature;
political Party Or Office Bearer Thereof;
Organization Of A Political Nature As May Be Specified Under Sub- Section (1) Of Section 5 By The Central Government.
association Or Company Engaged In The Production Or Broadcast Of Audio News Or Audio Visuals Or Current Affairs Programs Through Any Electronic Mode, Or Any Other Electronic Form As Defined In Clause (r) Of Sub-section (i) Of Section 2 Of The Information Technology Act, 2000 Or Any Other Mode Of Mass Communication;
Correspondent Or Communist, Cartoonist, Editor, Owner Of The Association Or Company Referred To In Clause (g).

Explanation - In Clause (c) And Section 6, The Expression "corporation' Means A Corporation Owned Or Controlled By The Government And Includes A Government Company As Defined In Section 617 Of The Companies Act, 1956. (i) Individuals Or Associations Who Have Been Prohibited From Receiving Foreign Contribution.

 
FCRA Registration

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR REGISTRATION

For Grant Of Registration, The Association Should:

be Registered Under The Societies Registration Act, 1860 Or The Indian Trusts Act, 1882 Or Section 25 Of The Companies Act, 1956;
Normally Be In Existence For At Least Three Years And Has Undertaken Reasonable Activity In Its Chosen Field For The Benefit Of The Society For Which The Foreign Contribution Is Proposed To Be Utilized. For This Purpose, The Association Should Have Spent At Least Rs. 6, 00, 000 Over Last Three Years On Its Activities, Excluding Administrative Expenditure. Statement Of Income & Expenditure Duly Audited By Chartered Accountant For Last Three Years May Be Enclosed To Substantiate That It Meets The Financial Parameter.
meet The Following Conditions:-

The Person Making An Application For Registration Or Grant Of Prior Permission Under Sub-section (1),- Sec.12 (4) (a):-

is Not Fictitious Or Benami;
has Not Been Prosecuted Or Convicted For Indulging In Activities Aimed At Conversion Through Inducement Or Force, Either Directly Or Indirectly, From One Religious Faith To Another;
has Not Been Prosecuted Or Convicted For Creating Communal Tension Or Disharmony In Any Specified District Or Any Other Part Of The Country;
has Not Been Found Guilty Of Diversion Or Mis-utilisation Of Its Funds;
is Not Engaged Or Likely To Engage In Propagation Of Sedition Or Advocate Violent Methods To Achieve Its Ends;
is Not Likely To Use The Foreign Contribution For Personal Gains Or Divert It For Undesirable Purposes;
has Not Contravened Any Of The Provisions Of This Act;
has Not Been Prohibited From Accepting Foreign Contribution:
The Person And/or Any Of Its Directors Or Office Bearers Have Neither Been Convicted Under Any Law For The Time Being In Force Nor Is Any Prosecution For Any Offence Pending Against Him.

The Acceptance Of Foreign Contribution By The Association / Person Is Not Likely To Affect Pre Judicially -

the Sovereignty And Integrity Of India; Or
the Security, Strategic, Scientific Or Economic Interest Of The State; Or
the Public Interest; Or
freedom Or Fairness Of Election To Any Legislature; Or
friendly Relation With Any Foreign State; Or
harmony Between Religious, Racial, Social, Linguistic, Regional Groups, Castes Or Communities.

The Acceptance Of Foreign Contribution-

shall Not Lead To Incitement Of An Offence;
shall Not Endanger The Life Or Physical Safety Of Any Person.

APPLICABILITY OF SECRETARIAL AUDIT:-

An Application For Registration Of An Organization For Acceptance Of Foreign Contribution Shall Be Made Electronically On-line In Form FC-3, And Shall Be Followed By Forwarding The Hard Copy Of The On-line Application Duly Signed By The Chief Functionary Of The Association Together With The Required Documents:

1. Form FC-3

2. Audited Statement Of Accounts Of Past Three Years.

3. Annual Report Specifying Activities Of Past Three Years.

4. If The Association Is A Registered Trust Or Society A Certified Copy Of The Registration Certificate.

5. Copy Of The Memorandum Of Association And/or The Articles Of Association As Applicable.

6. List Of Main Objects And Definite Programmes For Which The Contribution Is To Be Accepted / Utilized.

7. Details Of Names And Addresses Of The Members Of The Executive Committee/Governing Council Etc. Of The Association.

8. Copy Of Any Prior Permission Granted To The Organization.

9. Copy Of Resolution Of Governing Body Of The Organization, Authorizing The Registration Under FCRA.

10. Copy Of Power Of Attorney Or The Resolution Of Governing Body By Which The Chief Functionary Is Authorized To Submit FC-3.

11. List Of Present Members Of The Governing Body Of The Organization And The Office Bearers.

12. Copy Of Permanent Account Number (PAN) Issued By The Income Tax Department

FCRA Return

ANNUAL RETURN

An Association Permitted To Accept Foreign Contribution Is Required Under Law To Maintain Separate Set Of Accounts And Records Exclusively For The Foreign Contribution Received And Utilized;
Submit An Annual Return, Duly Certified By A Chartered Accountant;
Giving Details Of The Receipt And Purpose- Wise Utilization Of The Foreign Contribution.

TIME PERIOD OF FILING ANNUAL RETURN

The Return Is To Be Filed For Every Financial Year (1st April To 31st March) Within A Period Of Nine Months From The Closure Of The Year I.e. By 31st December Each Year.
Submission Of A 'Nil' Return, Even If There Is No Receipt/utilization Of Foreign Contribution During The Year, Is Mandatory.
The Return Is To Be Submitted, In Prescribed Form FC - 6, Duly Accompanied With:

balance Sheet And
statement Of Receipt And Payment,


Which Is Certified By A Chartered Accountant

FCRA Registration

An NGO can receive donations just after initial registration under trust act. Section 8 of Companies Act 2013. The next milestone is to avail registration for tax exemption on the income of an NGO; it is required to obtain approval from Income tax department under section 12 A, further to attract donor, NGO prefers to get a 80 G Certificate so that contributors can avail tax benefits on the donation made to the NGO.

FCRA registration is required to receive donations outside India; The NGO is required to be registered under the provisions of the foreign contribution regulation act, 1976.

For FCNRO registration an NGO must have completed three years of operations. FCRA Registration is granted by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. Of India.


Documents Required For FCRA Registration

·         Copy of PAN of the NGO.

·         Past 3 years Audited Balance Sheet, Income & Expenditure Account.

·         Certified copy of Trust Deed/MOA.

·         Detail about the current and past management of the trust.

·         A Copy of certificate issued by the Income Tax Authority under 80G & 12A of the Income Tax Act.

·         Annual report of the NGO and details of work done in past 3 year.

·         True copy of resolution passed by the Governing Body of the NGO.

·         True copy of Undertaking from the Chief Functionary of the NGO.

NGOs must be made accountable

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have a very important role to play in any democracy, more so in developing economies. NGOs are supposedly the custodians of propriety in public life and watchdogs of public interest at large.

The important qualification for any NGO and the people behind it is therefore the highest degree of integrity and character. The day these basic ingredients are compromised, that NGO forfeits its moral right to function.

Unfortunately in recent years, overall degeneration in value system across sections of society has been frighteningly fast and NGOs are no exception. Many NGOs today are playing in the hands of one vested interest or the other. Initially, vested interests used the NGOs by feeding them with information against rival interests and achieved their motives.

However now many NGOs have acquired financial muscle and have now started extorting moneys. An unfortunate methodology of some NGOs is to watch developments until a project promoter has invested time and money. After the promoter gets necessary government clearances/permits and starts the project with a large investment, the NGO starts objecting. At the same time, it quietly meets the promoter and negotiates a deal to extort money.

If the NGO fails to extort desired amounts, it goes to courts of law including Green tribunals. As a matter of fact and in the interest of equity, if promoters have obtained necessary clearances before going ahead with their project, they should not be disturbed.

If the matter comes before adjudicating authorities, they should penalise government agencies that gave clearances for wrongdoing rather than promoters as long as they have adhered to terms of clearances. If the promoters violate any conditions, they should not be spared.

Promoters often face unnecessary litigation after obtaining all clearances and suffer time and cost overruns that make a project unviable. If at the end of the litigation it is found that the promoter has not committed any wrong, the complaining NGO and governments should be directed to make good the loss.

Without such directions, developmental work will suffer on the one hand and on the other entrepreneurs will keep away from projects of national importance.

While in some cases the concerns raised by NGOs are valid, a detailed scrutiny will show that in many cases, the NGOs produce no substantial evidence nor possess expertise in the field. An analysis of the past 25 years is necessary to determine if NGOs have caused more harm than good to people, the economy and the environment.

Another dangerous facet of these NGOs is that many serve the cause of international agencies or multinational corporations by spreading gross lies through expensive media campaigns to influence institutions granting sanctions and those adjudicating issues.

Many major projects, including greenfield projects have been victims of unchecked blackmail by so-called NGOs. India has lost big opportunities in the international market amounting to billions of dollars to rival international players. Lop sided activism has harmed society irreparably.

There are instances of public sector companies engaged in mining activity that had planted millions of trees in the vicinity and provided a green cover being ordered to stop work at the behest of so-called green activists who were proved to be batting for international players.

While highlighting this unfortunate state of affairs in the NGO sector, I do not wish to undermine the importance of NGOs in society. I only want to draw the attention of governments to device a mechanism through which genuine NGOs flourish but those engaging in malpractices are checked.

Similarly, adjudicating authorities should exercise caution before entertaining petitions from any and every NGO.

There is very little accountability of NGOs today.

The need of the hour is to make them accountable. Transparency with regard to their activities and funding must be made public; and NGOs should be asked to put their balance sheets and projects in public domain. NGOs found to be making grossly incorrect allegations twice or thrice should be black listed for at least three years to ensure that the status of an NGO is not misused.

A judicious balance is required to be struck between green activism and development in the interests of the public at large.

Wrongdoings of business and industry are responsible for growth of NGOs, good and unscrupulous; similarly, wrongdoings on the part of NGOs will give an opportunity to trade and industry to play victim.

Under the circumstances, the role of governments and the judiciary becomes more important.

Source: http://www.thestatesman.com/opinion/ngos-must-be-made-accountable-1496872898.html