~ Vaishnavi Varier
NGOs or Non-Governmental Organisations are organisations that exist independently from the government and have non-profitable motives. Usually, the basic aim and activities of an NGO always inculcate values of civic welfare and awareness. It has a main purpose or cause that serves as the foundation of any plan of action initiated by them. The term NGO was first coined in 1945 in Article 17 of the Charter of the United Nations.
Aim of an NGO
The aim of an NGO revolves around advocacy of social rights, environment protection and related aspects that are crucial for any society’s welfare. NGOs can also be termed as the building blocks of the society not only because they can connect to the masses with much greater ease than a government but also because of the impact and changes that they can make in the society. NGOs in general function on the concept of holding hands for growth. Here, a group of people who require help are targeted and another group of people are formed(also known as volunteers) so as to develop close contact with them and provide the necessary support. NGOs broadly are divided into 2 types; Operational and Advocacy. Operational NGOs are those that work on developmental projects while Advocacy NGOs are those that focus and promote a particular cause or vision.
Roots and Significance of an NGO
NGOs are usually born from within the thought of citizens who are socially inclined and work in a similar sphere. Such people are a valuable asset for any society as they can transform the minds of millions. The impact they can create is far and wide and can change any nation’s situation. Legally, in India, it is formed through a proper registration process under Section 8 of companies act with the Registrar of Companies. The Founder along with a team of members should be formed alongside a board of directors. They must follow many legalisation processes and work diligently towards their cause. If faulty performance has been noticed, the government has the authority to cancel the license of any NGO. NGOs work on different scales and tiers. There are small NGOs which operate regionally and large international and national level NGOs that have a huge chain of members associated. Usually, national NGOs receive funds from the government and other non-monetary supports as well. The future of NGOs and the role that they play in the future of a country is intertwined. As mentioned earlier, they have the capacity to impact lives and do meaningful work. Thus, the existence of NGOs is essential for the well being of a society. Taking a futuristic viewpoint, we can assure that NGOs will function smoothly and strongly in our nation as well as globally.
Situations faced by an NGO
Despite being a very important part of society, an NGO faces several risks and obstacles. Usually, the problems that they come across are associated with the formation and development of the NGO itself. Since NGOs are usually formed by volunteers, lack of initiative by the volunteers is a major issue. Some other issues that are commonly found as a threat to NGO include lack of proper plans or operational ability, inability to muster ideas and form plans, lack of networking and social media communication, lack of developing the capacity of the organisation(unnatural restrictions on growth) and lack of expertise in the functional arena. Even though most NGOs face these obstacles, they tackle them diligently and are mostly able to perform well afterwards. The NGOs are generally really substantial to any nation.
Disadvantages
However, disadvantages exist in this stream as well. Many fraudulent practices are usually carried out under the shadow or banner of being an NGO. They are so genuine that it becomes difficult for the general public to distinguish them from authentic ones. This poses a threat to the future also because it disrupts the trust people have in such organizations thereby changing their view about the same. Since many NGOs do not have legal authorities to carry out tasks, it hinders their growth and often stays in a constant line graph indicating zero development. Other issues like mismanagement and inability to uphold all the aspects of a particular interest group or society as a whole are among other disadvantages they face.
Conclusion
These above-mentioned points become negligible with the sizable amount of advantages they have and the value that they can add to citizen’s life. Therefore, the existence of NGO is certainly useful globally by all means. With proper management and an eye on the future, they can definitely keep up with the goals and showcase surprising reports of development. Let’s acknowledge the work that each NGO volunteer does on this conclusive note, by reiterating the words.
Also, get a glimpse of the topic- Teaching in NGOs.
