NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS IN INDIA A CRITICAL STUDY
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NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS
IN INDIA
A CRITICAL STUDY
Society For
Participatory Research in Asia
42, TUGHLAKABAD INSTITUTIONAL AREA, NEW DELHI-110062
Preface
The spread of coverage and universe of activities of NGOs in India has substantially grown
in terms of size and diversity during the past few decades. A lot have been written and
published about the nature and quality of NGO work but it is all too fragmented and scattered.
In fact the collation of such material is always attempted in specific context of initiator’s
(organisation’s/institution’s/individual’s) objectives. As a result despite the intentions of
making such an output comprehensive and complete, it never happens.
The same applies to this volume of bibliography on Non-governmental organisations in
India.
PRIA was involved in carrying out a study on NGOs in India for the last two years. The study
was initiated with the following objectives :
(i)
To conceptualise the role of NGOs as promoters of development; catalysts of social
change and mechanisms for popular participation in public policy making;
(ii) To explore the future potential of NGOs as actors in public policy formulation and
implementation in the country.
In the process of this study we came across a lot of material in different forms and shapes
and we have worked on its classification. At this stage we felt that sharing of this infor
mation at wider scale will add to the meaningfulness of our effort. Though, there is an attempt
to be comprehensive and representative but it is not enough. The material compiled have in
this volume is still a fraction of the body of knowledge that exist in printed form on NGOs in India.
We have classified the material into ten thematic sections. While the titles are listed in
more than one theme but the annotation is provided at one place only. Each section is sub
divided into books, journals, articles and papers and seminar/workshop:
We are thankful to IDRC, Ottawa, Canada, for their support in the study and bringing out this
volume.
The team Popular Documentation and Resource Centre of PRIA deserves a special
acknowledgment for putting this material together in this shape.
CONTENTS
(1)
HISTORY/ROLE/OVERVIEW
5 - 40
(2)
SECTORAL
43-55
(3)
CASE STUDIES
59 - 66
(4)
SOCIAL WORK AND SOCIAL WELFARE
69 - 74
(5)
ORGANISATIONAL ASPECTS
77-85
(6)
NGOs AND STATE
89 - 98
(7)
NGOs AND FUNDING
101 - 106
(8)
INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVES - PHILANTHROPHY
109-123
(9)
DIRECTORIES, INDEXES AND LITERATURE REVIEW
127-131
(10)
CODE OF CONDUCT
135-139
HISTORY
ROLE
OVERVIEW
Books
ALLIBAND, TERRY
CATALYSTS OF DEVELOPMENT : VOLUNTARY AGENCIES IN INDIA
KUMARIAN PRESS, 1983
CONNECTICUT, USA, Pages 114
This book attempts to study voluntary agencies as agents of rural development. Though voluntary
agencies have a long history of successful involvement and innovations in rural development
approaches, this is the first study of its kind. This work focuses on the most widely known
experiments by voluntary agencies such as Martandam and Suniketan. Comments on some of the
major advantages and drawbacks of voluntary agencies in the national rural development efforts
of the third world nation are extremely useful. The book covers rural development, community
development and voluntary organisation, voluntary agencies and rural problems, successes and
failures, representative examples of major programme approaches, comparative analysis of
these programmes, strengths and weakness of programmes of voluntary agencies, lessons
learnt from their successes and other subjects.
BHATT, ANIL
DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL JUSTICE : MICRO ACTIONS BY WEAKER SECTIONS
SAGE PUBLICATIONS, 1989
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This book provides the first systematic evaluation of the way in which grassroots organisations
actually work. The author has studied thirty-eight groups set up by tribal youths in the rural areas
of Gujarat. He has examined how these groups promote the socio-economic development of their
members and simultaneously the wider struggle for their rights. After outlining the genesis and
structure of these groups, the author discusses their activities in the areas of economic
development, social action, social reform and conscientisation. He also looks at the way they
interact with the political and bureaucratic environment. The author critically analyses certain basic
questions concerning the limitations of such micro action groups, in the macro context of the effort
to establish a more just and egalitarian social order. Based on extensive field study, interviews and
qualitative data, the author has presented detailed case studies to provide an in-depth examination
of voluntary social action by weaker sections.
5
/
BRAUNMUHL, CLAUDIA VON
FIGHTING POVERTY THROUGH SELF HELP
FOOD AND AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT CENTRE, 1986
FELDAFUNG, GERMANY
This booklet is aimed at acquainting people with institution and problem-specific concepts based
on experiences. It observes that although it is generally recognised that poverty is not
acceptable as a social evil, formal structures have largely failed to fight poverty. This will change
by activities of the poor themselves -their organisations and their participation in decision-making
processes. The role of women in the development process must also get proper consideration.
Despite the emphasis on self-help and self-reliance, there remains the responsibility of
the rich towards the poor adequate forms of expression of which need to be created.
FERNANDES, WALTER; GANGULY THUKRAL, ENAKSHI (ED)
DEVELOPMENT, DISPLACEMENT AND REHABILITATION
INDIAN SOCIAL INSTITUTE
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This book is meant to be a contribution to the national debate on “Development, Displacement and
Rehabilitation”. Development in India, as in the rest of the world, is judged by factors such as the
number of dams factories, mines and other on-going projects. While this is defined as progress, the
displacement of millions, many of whom end up as bonded labourers and migrant workers is not
highlighted. Though their numbers are large, their voices are not heard. A deliberate effort has been
made by the editors to present various perspectives, particularly on rehabilitation. The book
provides a background on displacement and makes suggestions with reference to rehabilitation.
FERNANDES, WALTER
DEVELOPMENT WITH PEOPLE : EXPERIMENTS WITH PARTICIPATION AND
NON-FORMAL EDUCATION
INDIAN SOCIAL INSTITUTE, 1985
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This book presents certain approaches to development, with some case studies illustrating these
approaches. The experiences presented differ from area to area, but are written by persons
involved in work which emphasizes ways of meaningful participation of people in their own
development. This book presents some alternatives proposed by voluntary organisations which
believe that development cannot be measured by technological progress or economic growth,
but by social change which can be brought about by a process of education.
6
FAIR
THE CURRENT STATUS OF THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR IN INDIA A SURVEY REPORT 1987
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This report is based on a study conducted by FAIR to understand the management dimensions of
NGOs. The report presents data collected through questionnaires sent out to several
organisations. It examines the different types of NGOs, their optimum annual budget, the kinds of
programmes they are involved in, the areas of operation, the target groups, etc. At the end, there
is an overall analysis of trends from a national perspective.
HEREDIA, RUDOLF C.
VOLUNTARY ACTION AND DEVELOPMENT - TOWARDS A PRAXIS FOR NON
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
CONCEPT PUBLISHING COMPANY, 1988
NEW DELHI, INDIA, Pages 96
The author believes that voluntary action represents an alternative principle of social
organisation, outside the massive bureaucratisation and centralisation of society. The present
crisis in the development process has encouraged a search for alternatives outside the mainstream.
The book explores these alternatives, focusing mainly on the participatory research approach,
which attempts a collaborative and committed search for understanding and action. Some policy
recommendations and generalised conclusions meant to demonstrate the critical contribution
voluntary organisations can make towards development are offered.
JAMES, ESTELLE
THE NON-PROFIT SECTOR IN COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVE - A RESEARCH
HANDBOOK
1987, NEW HAVEN, USA
The author opines that the non-profit sector varies greatly in absolute and relative size from one
country to another, but such organisations behave in strikingly similar ways. She analyses many
significant questions pertaining to the sector. According to her, some theories ignore the fact that
NGOs usually produce quasi-public goods, i.e goods that yield both public and private benefits and
do so in competition with government. The author has divided this article into three parts and
analyses each part taking examples from the field of education.
7
KOHLI, MADHU
VOLUNTARY ACTION IN INDIA : SOME PROFILES
NIPCCD, 1984
NEW DELHI, INDIA, Pages 268
The author has compiled information on the functioning of voluntary organisations working
on social welfare and development. The book contains data obtained from 59
organisations, regarding their objectives, organisational structure, source of finance,
programmes and services, beneficiaries, staffing pattern, major achievements, and the
difficulties experienced. This data has been analyzed and categorised, and the book presents
details of these findings.
LUBETT, ROLAND
NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS AS AGENTS OF EMPOWERMENT
UNIVERSITY OF READING, 1987
READING, UK, Pages 55
This study, a review of literature and project documents, examines an alternative strategy of
development, based on the empowerment of the poor and of marginal groups in society,
involving non-governmental organisations as implementing agencies which use a participatory
methodology to raise awareness, mobilise local resources and promote genuine organisations of
the rural poor. It reviews the changes in development thinking, from the early paternalist welfare
measures to the latest ideas on supporting both levels and intermediate organizations. It looks into
the alternative strategies which have recently evolved. The concept of empowerment is also
analysed and the major theories of social change are critically examined. This book also reviews the
role of non-governmental organisations in development. The study ends with a comparative analysis
of fifteen southern voluntary agencies which have taken up empowering strategies, in an effort to
isolate the causes and factors behind the operational conflicts and choices they face as
they implement their programmes.
OOMMEN, T.K.
SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION IN RURAL INDIA, MOBILISATION AND STATE
INTERVENTION
VIKAS PUBLISHERS, 1984
NEW DELHI, INDIA
In this book the author says that voluntary organisations are countervailing powers moderating
state intervention and modulating governmental influence in the lives of citizens. The author has
mentioned the activities of the Bharat Sevak Samaj (BSS) founded in 1952 by Jawaharlal Nehru to
mobilise peoples’ participation and operation in national development activities. The specific
objectives of the BSS are outlined, its programmes detailed, and an assessment made of its work.
The author has also mentioned other approaches to social work, and made a comparative study of
the work of the BSS in this context.
8
PRATT, BRIAN
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES : A FIELD GUIDE FOR DEVELOPMENT
OXFAM, 1988
OXFORD, UK
Throughout the world there are minority peoples who lead their lives independently of the nation
state. Over generations they have watched national boundaries harden around, and through their
territories, until they have become outcasts in their own lands. The economic activities of national
societies have further undermined these people by encroaching on their land base and
transforming the environments on which they depend for their survival. During the past twenty
years, the particular and urgent needs of these people have become widely recognised. This book is
the first attempt to comprehensively address the issues they have raised. It describes the main
features of indigenous societies and reviews the ways in which governments and other institutions
have sought to change them. The author goes on to detail the activities undertaken by non
governmental organisations which have worked with indigenous people and concludes with
specific advice to field workers, based on OXFAM’s extensive experience and illustrated with
examples drawn from many countries around the world.
ROOFF, MADELINE
VOLUNTARY SOCIETIES AND SOCIAL POLICY
ROUTLEDGE AND KEGAN PAUL LTD., 1957
LONDON, UK
(SEE INTERNATIONAL/EUROPE )
SOMMER, JOHN G.
“U.S. Private Voluntary Organisations Assisting Third World
Development”
BEYOND CHARITY: U.S.AID FOR A CHANGING THIRD WORLD
OVERSEAS DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, 1977
WASHINGTON, US, pp. 47 - 66
(SEE INTERNATIONAL / NORTH AMERICA)
TANDON, RAJESH (ED.)
PARTICIPATORY RESEARCH IN ASIA
CENTRE FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION, 1980
CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA
This volume contains a number of essays on Participatory Research (PR) in Asia with the objective
of promoting the concepts of PR and its current diversions, and of initiating a series of such
volumes in Asia which will reflect the evolving character of PR as a concept and methodology.
The volume is a report on developments in PR in Asia through exchanges across the region.
Those engaged in PR range from professional researchers located in universities to semi-literate
field workers in the village. A significant characteristic of PR is its rural context and its belief of
empowering people through access to knowledge.
9
UDUWELA, P.D.
THE ROLE OF RURAL INSTITUTIONS AND VOLUNTARY GROUPS IN
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
UNESCO
PARIS, FRANCE, Pages 24
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ ASIA )
WIGNARAJA PONNA; HUSSAIN, AKMAL (ED)
THE CHALLENGE IN SOUTH ASIA : DEVELOPMENT, DEMOCRACY AND
REGIONAL COOPERATION
SAGE PUBLICATIONS, 1989
NEW DELHI, INDIA, Pages 360
( SEE INTERNATIONAL /ASIA )
Newspaper Clippings
BARSE, SHIELA
“Sins of Commission”
INDIAN EXPRESS, July 03, 1988
BOMBAY, INDIA
The writer in this article is of the view that most NGOs working in the country serve the purpose of
certain defined groups. She cites examples of NGOs which are front organisations of political
groups such as the Marxists, Leninists, Naxalites, etc. She says that this hampers their functioning,
and if NGOs are to be more effective, there must be just institutions, an honest political system,
better forms of governance, and non-interference by political parties.
GUPTA, JOYDEEP
“Lonely Path of the Voluntary Sector”
THE STATESMAN, August 10, 1988
CALCUTTA, INDIA
In this article the writer is of the opinion that the main failure so far of voluntary organisations in
India has been that successful experiments have not been replicated, and most NGOs have kept
themselves in isolation from each other. He says that there have been no major attempts to get
NGOs from all over the country together. He adds that most NGOs have kept themselves in
forced isolation from politics. The writer emphasizes that NGOs, through politics, can do their work
effectively. If this is not possible, then NGOs should at least initiate a national movement.
10
KOTHARI, RAJNI
“Rise of Citizens’ Power”
HINDUSTAN TIMES, November 23, 1986
NEW DELHI, INDIA
The writer feels that when it comes to the condition of the poor and the down trodden, the
institutions of the State are conspicuous by their absence, political parties abscond and the
media is either wholly ignorant or deliberately turns a deaf ear. It is only the voluntary activists
and various movements that rise to the occasion. In this context, he examines the nature of
some voluntary agencies, and cites examples of action taken by them in times of major disasters
such as the Bhopal disaster.
ROY, BUNKER
“Self Respect Before Seif Reliance”
INDIAN EXPRESS, 1987
BOMBAY, INDIA
The author has very critically analysed the situation in India and people’s attitude towards foreign
goods and technology. The main idea of this article is that “it is not possible for this great nation
to be self-reliant if we do not have any self-respect”. The author criticises dependence on foreign
goods and devaluation of indigenous goods. Finally he views that it would do India a world of
good if we took the first step towards having confidence in ourselves, in the ideas that we
have generated within the country with our own initiative and knowledge, much to the envy of
the world.
ROY, BUNKER
“How Voluntary Agencies Can Help West Bengal”
INDIAN EXPRESS, August 22, 1984
BOMBAY, INDIA
This article examines the present situation of voluntary agencies in West Bengal, the problems they
face, the political climate in which they work, etc. The writer says that these NGOs usually face
problems dealing with active ideologically committed panchayats, and panchayat samitis. Due to
• this voluntary agencies have expanded to enable their survival, and there is no meeting point
between the government and voluntary agencies. He advocates that this situation should be
amended soon if these NGOs really want to help the people of West Bengal.
11
SUNDARAM, SATYA I.
“Rural Development and Voluntary Agencies”
FINANCIAL EXPRESS, December 22,1979
BOMBAY, INDIA
This article highlights the important role that voluntary agencies play in rural development as
that they can mobilise human resources, and it is increasingly realised that finance alone cannot
promote rural development. The all-round development of rural areas largely depends on the
combined efforts of various agencies. The article mentions that the territorial development of
voluntary agencies has revealed certain disturbing trends in that about 60 per cent of them are in
the Eastern and Western regions of the country. The reason for such an imbalance must be
examined and efforts should be made to improve their distribution.
Journals
“Voluntary Associations and People’s Participation in Development” PRISMA, March, 1980
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 3 -10
As the report of a North South Colloquium it observes that development is no longer
considered the responsibility of governments. Voluntary associations have emerged
spontaneously to fill gaps in various spheres of society. Voluntary associations contribute
some solutions to the problem of institutional building unsolved by political parties hastily
founded after independence in most South-East Asian countries. Voluntary groups have emerged
in the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. According to the report,
participation was only a means to an end, not an end in itself. An ideal participation should include
all sectors and classes within society. The report also points out that the Colloquium adopted
certain resolutions. These are outlined in detail.
BHATTACHARJEE, ABHIJIT
“Voluntary Agencies : Identity Crisis”
MAINSTREAM, July 27, 1985
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 16 - 20
The writer traces the evolution of voluntary agencies, from charity work to development work,
from a reformist approach to a radical or revolutionary approach. The writer states that until the
early seventies all voluntary organisations in India were either conformist in their approach or
were “assistance in distress" types; but subsequently the earlier approach gave way to reformist
approaches. Activists have now started realising that poverty or backwardness cannot be viewed as
merely an income generation problem which can be solved by filling the gap with economic inputs.
Consequently, the emphasis has turned from development to social change with the help of
people’s organisations and conscientisation. The writer stresses that a clear political ideology of
voluntary action ought to be evolved in order to give a sense of direction and purpose. Otherwise,
change will remain a hollow slogan.
BATLIWALA, SRILATA; BALGOPAL, INDU
“Interaction Between Voluntary Agencies”
EKLAVYA, 1985
INDIA
The writers emphasize the importance of interaction between voluntary agencies and suggest a
few ways of doing so at the informal inter-individual level and at the informal inter-agency level.
The article further focuses on the results of interactions, the exchange of services which can
be extended to other agencies; exchange of ideas, techniques and strategies, both at the
informal levels, and formal level; sharing of resources, both human and material. They stress
that long term results can be achieved if agencies make a conscious effort to interact with
agencies which are different from them.
BUDHEY, SUNIL SAHARSA
"TOWARDS A New Theory and The Role of Social Mobilisation Groups”
LOKAYAN
NEW DELHI, INDIA
in this paper the author provides a theoretical framework for a consistent understanding of
radical politics. Tne basic contention of the paper is that the radical groups attempt to mobilise
the most oppressed but in fact end up representing only a section of the middle class. He cites
many examples of movements in India to illustrate this stand, including politically affiliated
party groups as well as people’s movements. He concludes that radical mobilisation groups
should see themselves not as leaders but as participants, not as path finders but path clearers.
ALI BAIG, TARA
“Voluntary Action : In Times of Transition”
FUTURE, No. 13, 1984
UNICEF, NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 12 -16
Discussing the role of voluntary action to achieve public involvement in India’s social
transformation, the author has said that in the next 15 years it will become clear whether the
self-reliance of our rural people will bring about the rural and urban stability dreamed by Gandhi, or
whether the solution will be a political one based upon State control. Three ways to fulfill the
objectives of promoting welfare and development strategies in Indian history are outlined in the
article.
13
CHANDRA, SURESH
“Limitations of Voluntarism”
MAINSTREAM, Vol. 23, No. 38, May 18, 1985
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 11 -12
The writer focuses on the role of voluntary agencies and the attitude of the government on
issues such as poverty, illiteracy, and unemployment. He says that NGOs have become like
privately owned shops in India. The writer also says that problems in India are not simple, and
cannot be easily solved. The ultimate solution, of course, lies in egalitarian redistribution of
economic resources. NGOs should not seek foreign help or government help but should raise
funds only from local sources.
CONSTANTINO, DAVID KARINA
“Issues in Community Organisation”
PRISMA. 1980
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 70 - 78
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ ASIA )
CHARYULU, U.V.N.
“Voluntary Organisations and Rural Transformation ”
RURAL TRANSFORMATION: READINGS, Vol. 28, No. 5, 1984
NIRD, HYDERABAD, INDIA
This paper highlights the motivations, methods, roles and relations ot voluntary organisations
in the context of rural transformation. Factors contributing to the growth and genesis of voluntary
bodies are analysed from a historical perspective, and the writer points out that historical
precedents show that voluntary organisations must adopt a holistic concept of rural development
and plan and organise multisectoral and integrated rural development programmes to ensure
effectiveness. He also outlines operational methods to be used in the implementation of
programmes. The relations between the State and voluntary organisations are also discussed.
CHARYULU, U.N.V.
“Voluntary Organisations and Rural Development”
RURAL DEVELOPMENT DIGEST, Vol. 3, No. 2, April, 1980
MADRAS, INDIA, pp. 61 -114
The author has described the nature of voluntary organisations in the field of rural development, their
motivations, the methods they adopt in rural reconstruction, their role in rural development,
and their relations with other organisations. The paper also examines problems which voluntary
organisations face, including absence of leadership, lack of coordination, gradual decline of
mutual understanding, and increase in people’s suspicion, distrust and apathy regarding the
activities of these organisations.
14
CHIEN, DOH JOON
“Voluntary Organisations With Special Reference to Malaysia”
PRISMA, 1980
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 32 - 43
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ ASIA )
DEY, S.K.
“Reality or Delusion”
YOJANA, June 16 - 30,1985
PLANNING COMMISSION, GOVT. OF INDIA
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 12-14
The author cautions against undue apprehension regarding voluntary agencies. He advocates
that voluntary action in India cannot get an earnest share of development unless the people
share first the authority, responsibility and resources for development, in an interlocked pattern
from the Centre down to the village. He concludes that voluntary action will play a major and
significant role in India.
DEY, S.K.
“Testing Voluntary Agencies - The Counter Challenge”
YOJANA, January 01 -15,1985
PLANNING COMMISSION, GOVT. OF INDIA
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 1 -15
The author makes a strong case for a distinctive role for voluntary agencies in India. He looks
at the history of India, and the role that Gandhi played as propounder of voluntary action. After
Gandhi, Nehru carried on the tradition and incorporated possibilities for voluntary action in
government development programmes. The author analyses the nature as well as the role of
voluntary agencies in creating what he calls a "Forum for Freedom” a people’s movement to
counteract hypocrisy and build up a life style which is in perfect harmony with the quintessence of
Indian philosophy.
DE GRAAF, MARTIN
“Catching Fish or Liberating Man : Social Development in
Zimbabwe”
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, 1986
ZIMBABWE
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ AFRICA )
15
DR. RAO, T.S. NARAYANA
“Voluntary Effort for National Integration”
YOJANA, Vol. 28, No. 7, April 16-30,1984
PLANNING COMMISSION, GOVT. OF INDIA
NEW DELHI, INDIA
Voluntary organisations can be effective as they have both informal and non-governmental
characteristics. They are close to the grassroots and have a sense of service to their brethren. The
writer discusses the role and functions of voluntary agencies and says that they should coordinate
and keep in touch with each other to know the latest activities being carried out The writer stresses
that they should educate the public their basic rights as well as duties. He suggests strategies to
deal with the evil of regionalisation.
DASGUPTA, SUGATA
“Voluntary Organisations in Rural Development”
VOLUNTARY ACTION, January, 1972
CAPART, NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 6 -14
The author observes that voluntary organisations can continue to be innovative and experimental
in their approach and must therefore limit their activities to areas which the government is not
ready to enter. The author feels that the government created voluntary organisations to provide it
with a supportive base, and the role of the voluntary organisation should primarily be that of a
scientist and not a nationwide practitioner. The writer outlines three distinct roles which
voluntary organisations can play. Other major tasks of voluntary organisations are : to
bridge the gap between planners and doers, and to act as a watchdog on behalf of the people.
DE GRAAF, MARTIN
“Context, Constraint or Control? Zimbabwean NGOs and Their
Environment”
DEVELOPMENT POLICY REVIEW, Vol. 5,1987
SAGE PUBLICATIONS, USA, pp. 275 - 301
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ AFRICA )
FERNANDES, WALTER
“Some Dilemmas Facing Action Groups : Reactions From Activists”
SOCIAL ACTION, Vol. 34, April, 1984
INDIAN SOCIAL INSTITUTE
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 197 - 215
This article highlights the problems faced by Action Groups in India. It is records the reactions of
activists and of a few scholars who support the work of action groups vis-a-vis the role played by
outside elements in their work. The reactions are enumerated and discussed in detail, and an overall
conclusion of the various arguments and points of view is provided.
16
GRANT, JAMES P.
“No Development Without Grassroots Action”
DEVELOPMENT: SEEDS OF CHANGE, No. 2, 1984
NEW YORK, USA, pp. 66 - 67
The UNICEF experience has shown that no successful development for people is possible
without substantial grassroots involvement. It was this that led to the UNICEF adopting its basic
services approach in the late 60’s and early 70’s. This paper examines the implications of this
approach and cites examples of programmes and projects which have succeeded because of the
use of this approach. According to the writer,the challenge of the 80’s consists of a new set of
principles with far reaching implications: increased participation of the rural population,
decentralisation of the decision-making process, flexible planning, a trial and error learning
process, and “bottom-up” approaches versus the “blue print” approach.
HORTON SMITH, DAVID; SEGUIN, MARY; COLLINS, MARJORIE
“Dimensions and Categories of Voluntary Organisations/NGOs”
JOURNAL OF VOLUNTARY ACTION RESEARCH
USA, pp. 116-120
In'this paper the authorshave attempted to list numerous relevant dimensions in terms of which
voluntary organisations can be classified analytically. The purpose is to present a
comprehensive set of dimensions and categories that are believed to be most important for an
understanding of the kinds of voluntary organisations that exist and the differences among
them. The list is useful to leaders of voluntary organisations as it helps them to clarify what kind of
groups they might want to cooperate with or relate to. The list gives 51 types of classifications.
HENDRATA, LUKAS
“Bureaucracy, Participation and Distribution in Indonesian
Development”
PRISMA, Vol. 28, June, 1983
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 21 - 32
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ ASIA )
HAINSWORTH, GEOFFREY B.
“Private Voluntary Organisations and Socio-economic
Security and Equality in Indonesia”
PRISMA
JAKARTA, INDONESIA
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ ASIA )
17
HARICHANDRAN, C.
“Futuristic Role of Voluntary Organisations”
KHADI GRAMUDYOG, Vol. 28, No. 7, April, 1982
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 346 - 350
This article examines the different goals towards which voluntary organisations work. It looks at
the phenomenal increase in recent years in the number of voluntary organisations which can be
grouped into micro and macro level bodies. The paper points out that although voluntary
organisations have played a great role in the rural development process, they should redefine their
programmes and priorities in the light of the developmental needs of the day, and operate in a wider
area of the rural economy.
JAIN, S.C.
“How Voluntary Agencies Can Help Rural Development”
KURUKSHETRA, Vol. 30, No. 3, November, 1981
PUBLICATIONS DIVISION, GOVT. OF INDIA,
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 14-16
This article discusses the decision of the government to involve voluntary organisations in the task
of rural development and suggests that they can play a very creative role in motivating people
and supervising the distribution of resources to ensure proper utilisation. The writer opines that
government agencies and voluntary bodies should prepare themselves for a broader and more
meaningful participation in the nationwide efforts of rural development. He also emphasizes the
need for focusing the organised strength of voluntary bodies through some federative action, and
suggests that there is a need for joint action in training, consultation, research and information
support to develop the capabilities of voluntary organisations for managing the complex task of rural
development.
JOSEPH, M.J.
“Historical Role of Action Groups”
HOW, December, 1981
INDIA
The writer reflects on the activities of some voluntary organisations, most of which have a task
with the church in the context of the historical role of such organisations. The writer traces the
growth of these organisations, from the early fifties, and looks at the types of groups which worked in
this sector, as well as the kind of activities which were taken up by them. However, the
writer’s observation is that most of the organisations have started feeling the need to move
towards a defined political path.
18
JOHN, J.
“A Critique of Action Groups - A Marxist Point of View”
THE MARXIST REVIEW, August, 1962
BANGALORE, INDIA, pp. 67 - 77
This article tries to place action groups into a theoretical framework. According to the author, the
activists who work with people, organise them, politicise them and make them fight for their rights
tend to get confused. The author has pointed out three stages in the development of action
groups. He has also dealt with action groups and the question of spontaneity. The author
believes that the political response of the action groups is Radical Nationalism and observes that
action groups exist as spatially separated, and disjointed. The author feels that in the present
situation, action groups cannot make an impact on the socialist transformation in Indian society
given their existing framework.
KRISHNAMURTI, V.
“Voluntary Agencies and Rural Development”
KURUKSHETRA, June 16,1982
PUBLICATIONS DIVISION, GOVT. OF INDIA,
NEW DELHI, INDIA
The writer states that voluntary organisations have a major role to play in the development
process of the country, at the national, state, village and district levels. He says that the success
of development programmes depends on the education of the people rather than on increased
economic inputs, and this where the NGOs can play a vital role. This study also analyses the
factors responsible for the backwardness and the poverty of the country, and cautions about the
inherent conflict between programme objectives and funder’s objectives. The other factor which
he feels NGOs should be careful about is the recent trend towards institutionalisation.
KARUNAKARAN, K.C.
“Voluntary Organisations and Rural Development”
VOLUNTARY ACTION, Vol. 25, No. 6, January, 1983
CAPART, NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 189 - 201
The writer emphasizes the importance of proper coordination amongst the panchayats,
cooperative societies and voluntary organisations working to promote rural development. He points
out that one of the main problems facing voluntary organisations today is the lack of coordination,
cooperation and institutional support at the grassroots level. The writer suggests that voluntary
agencies should be strengthened and encouraged to supplement the efforts of the Panchayati
Raj Institutions. They should work for rural development from outside the system, involving the
local population in planning and implementation of development programmes.
19
KUHN,HELMUT
“Volunteers in Canada”
NGOS AND DEVELOPMENT, 1986
CUSO, OTTAWA, CANADA
( SEE INTERNATIONAL? NORTH AMERICA )
LABRADOR, VIRGILIO S.
“Reflections on NGOs, First and Third World”
CUSO, 1986
OTTAWA, CANADA
It has been observed that the First World provides money and the Third World does most of the
work. Dependency is a state of affairs that not only pertains to international trade but to almost
every sphere of international relations including NGOs relations. In the Philippines there exists
what is called a ‘special relationship’ with the world’s greatest superpower - the United States.
Solidarity is the essential feature of NGO relations. The proliferation of NGOs world wide has
given hope to many people and has aroused great expectation. In the Third World the NGOs
conjure up images of alternative action, activist politics and even radical social change. In the West
NGOs seem more institutionalised and reformist.
MURPHY, BRIAN K.
“Canadian NGOs and Political Activism
NCOS AND DEVELOPMENT, 1986
CUSO, OTTAWA, CANADA
( SEE INTERNATIONAL? NORTH AMERICA )
MALLIKAWANGIA, SUNDARA
“Sri Lanka : Filling in the Gap”
PANOSCOPE, No. 6,1988
PANOS INSTITUTE, LONDON, UK
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ ASIA )
NATARAJAN, V.K.
“Participation in Rural Development: A Case Study
KURUKSHETRA, November 01,1982
PUBLICATIONS DIVISION, GOVT. OF INDIA
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 13-16
( SEE CASE STUDIES )
20
REDDY, G. NARAYANAN
“Participation to Promote Collective Self-reliance of the
Rural Poor”
JOURNAL OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT, Vol. 6, No. 3,1987
NIRD, HYDERABAD, INDIA
This paper attempts to analyse the concept of participation, its dimensions, its need and rationale,
and the factors affecting the participation of the rural poor. The paper explains participation and its
role in human resource development. It also elaborates on the integration of development with
liberation strategies and the involvement of target groups. It highlights the role of NGOs working
with the rural poor in the conscientisation process. It also talks about an integrated model of
empowering the rural poor, and approaches adopted by the NGOs. The paper concludes by
mentioning the Neighbourhood Group Network (NGN) strategy adopted by some NGOs to empower
the poor in rural areas.
ROY, BUNKER
“Child Welfare : Do Volags Have a Role ?”
EKLAVYA, 1985
INDIA
The writer in the present article criticises the Integrated Child Development Service (ICDS)
programme which was originally designed and planned without the involvement of village-based
child welfare agencies, by institutions outside the government sector, to serve their own needs and
interests. The writer feels that a degree of cooperation between the government and voluntary
agencies at the village level is essential for such a programme to be successful. He cites
examples of states like Rajasthan, Orissa, Bihar and Himachal Pradesh, where consultative
groups have been formed interaction with which will perhaps break down the barriers between the
government and Volags and enable them to achieve more in development programmes.
RAJULA DEVI, A.K.; SRINIVASAN, E.S.
“Role of Voluntary Agencies in Rural Development”
KHADI GRAMUDYOG, Vol. 25, No. 12, September, 1979
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 528 - 536
( SEE CASE STUDIES )
21
SETH, D.L
“Voluntary Organisations, Action Groups and Movements’*
SEMINAR, October, 1982
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 42 - 52
In this paper, the writer briefly describes the nature of stirrings at the grassroots, and the kind
of politics they project for the future in India. He observes that voluntary organisations are not
new to India, and looks at the historical development and growth ofNGOsfrom 1860 onwards.
He also analyses the different types of NGOs, their activities, organisational structure and
ideologies. According to the author, the process of moving from a micro-practice of transformative
politics to a micro- conception of a new politic for the future has just started. He also advocates
partnership between activist and intellectuals in the process of social transformation.
SURENDRA, MOHAN
“Emergence of Non- Party Action Groups’*
JANATA, November, 1986
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 7 - 9
The writer opines that sustained agitations against exploitation, injustice and atrocities of the weaker
sections have been the major focus of the activities of the NGOs. The area of action groups has
extended to various sectors, and the writer examines some of these groups. The paper highlights
that there is a need for NGOs to come together for the purpose of exchange of information and
experience.
SETHI, HARSH
“Voluntary Agencies and Social Change: An Analytical Study of
Action Groups”
MADRAS DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR SERIES, December, 1982
MADRAS, INDIA
This paper focuses on the role of NGOs, and classifies them in various categories. The paper
suggests that NGOs supplement State effort for development in areas where such effort is non
existent, inefficient or insufficient. The paper stresses that constructive work has a value not only
in itself, in providing an entry point for more radical work or in generating cadre for organisational
and political activity, but also offers the possibility of experimentation with different
organisational models and processes. The paper stresses that political involvement, more than
any other activity, brings home the macro-constraints inherent in our situation. The paper sums up
that all the different activities of NGOs have common characteristics. They suffer from the
inherent inability to resolve macro-issues within a micro-context. This tension leads to high rate
of mortality in all such efforts.
24
SETH, D.L
“Grassroots Initiatives in India : Attempts at Delegitimising
a Creative Process - Vested Interests at Work”
ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL WEEKLY, November 11,1984
BOMBAY, INDIA
According to this article, grassroots initiative has its own contradictions to which little or no
attention has been paid. The author observes that when societies are ruled by rootless elites, the
concept “grassroots” becomes an ironic coinage. He also highlights the point of departure of the
grassroots initiatives from the conventional approach to rural development, and analyses the
concept of grassroots initiatives in India today.
SETHI, HARSH
“Debate Between Party and Non-party Group (Reply to the CPI- M)”
ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL WEEKLY, February 23,1985
BOMBAY, INDIA
This is a reply by the author to an article by Prakash Karat, a senior functionary of the CPI (M).
The author argues that the impetus for work done on a non-party basis amongst the oppressed and
the exploited is necessary to counter and disrupt the potential of the left movement, and critically
assess the role of political parties, particularly the Communist Party, and that of the action groups.
He stresses that the latter are meeting some of the needs of the people in spite of their serious
limitations and structural weaknesses while the political parties are a total failure. The writer in this
article also describes the dilemma the voluntary agencies are facing.
VITTACHI, TARZIE
“Popular Movements, not just NGOs”
DEVELOPMENT : SEEDS OF CHANGE, Vol. 2,1984
NEW YORK, USA, Pages 67
This article focuses on people’s participation in development. The writer states that it is time to •
recognize the people as creators of information. It is time to recognize their political will which
reflects their interests. The writer provides an example of Sri Lanka, where no government dared
to change the education system because the people recognised its benefits fortheir children. The
writer further emphasizes that popular movements are the reason for successful
programmes for development, and they are the instruments of radical change. But there is a role to
be played by the NGOs in trying to help people to manage that change, to help people to contribute
their ideas and knowledge to that change.
25
WIROSARDJONO, SOETJIPTO
“People’s Participation at the Local Level”
PRISMA, 1980
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 59 - 69
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ ASIA )
WILSON, LOIS M.
“The Church as an NGO”
NGOS AND DEVELOPMENT, 1986
CUSO, OTTAWA, CANADA
The Church has always played a significant role in international development. For the last century it
has been visible in every country, involved in developmental work in one way or another. It can be
judged as an ally or an enemy - as a main actor in the development of people, or as the main
stumbling block to development or both. In the contemporary world Church development workers
are called missionaries. The Church has moved from the notion of development as charity to
solidarity, beyond patronage to partnership, along with conversion. Development workers are
missionaries if they understand their mission as the creation of conditions that allow people full and
abundant life, in control of their own future, self reliant yet interdependent.
WILLIAMS, GLEN
“Community Participation and the Role of Voluntary Agencies
in Indonesia”
PRISMA, 1980
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 11-31
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ ASIA )
YESUDDIN, C.A.K.; SHARMA, R.N.
“Role of Voluntary Agencies in a Community in Stress”
INDIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES
TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, BOMBAY, INDIA
In this paper the writers present details of a few riots which broke out in Maharashtra and the role
of voluntary organisations in such a crisis. When any NGO enters the community to render
services, the writers suggest, there should always be a systematic approach in solving its
major problems with the help of local leaders and the voluntary agencies already existing. He
expands on this by focusing on the example of an NGO working in the slums of Worli, in Bombay.
The writers suggest that there is a great need for secular volags to work in such areas to develop a
wider network of influence in the community. He also feels that there should be more coordination
between the voluntary agencies and the local administration to reduce violence in the community.
The author sums up by saying that voluntary agencies have a great role to play in dealing with
communal conflicts in the country.
26
Papers
of
A ^fitnutoV to otoR"
x.
*.-Jateixfloni TI_. Jt„ kail
.. „
National NGO Coordinating Bod.es in Third World Countries”
wVtnioq eiotos erlT .^linuoo sd)
•: ^ucr^po-. •■?:; ■<
!! .ebnut ngisiot no tnobasqeb bns llsma .teool gaied ,s03l/l Io aeium©! nommoo emos
•'1 s pi iivfijo 'iter*?
¥io?oibfininc>iiqoq
3fV 'li' ncHfe^lidorn to l£po wH ao^suosib
This paper deals with how national NGO bodies in the Third World are coordinating the activities
of NGOs and strengthening their capabilities. The study reveals that their performance in
relation to viability and effectiveness is ambiguous. Coordinating bodies came into existence
without any consensus and work to fashion agreements among NGOs who have differing
expectations. The paper deals with the question of how to balance this role and draws differences
between international NGOs and indigenous NGOs in their size and nature of progress, access to
funding, and relationship with the host government; it brings out the relationships between
coordinating bodies and the sector-specific bodies limited to NGOs involved in similar type of
programmes. The study has grouped the functions of these bodies and provides an insight into
the development functions and performance of these bodies in some regions like Africa, Asia
Latin America and the Caribbeans.
•pslnuiov xis to t*Qinjdnfnoo edl fuods atost tfjjshoqmi ertt to ernoa tneaeiq oi sent leqsq eidT
,noi!60ol ertt tuo bnit ol
ybutc ed! Io ssvilot'idc adT
ssievib oi
anoitssinsgio
rnsiO t(RU) mstdaA eveS isswnsS :eiew neaodo enoilsainsgio xia eriT .noitssilidom
dpnso svea MilfidonA wqlumeT
feeW) bsamsS nsysnU sibnsM XiBrijS)
This paper examines the changing functions and roles of voluntary agencies from the 19th century
onwards, and analyses the effect of growth on the sector. The writer says that voluntary agencies
play the role of motivators and organisers, and are both social change catalysts and “emotional
change” catalysts. He also discusses the structural advantages of voluntary agencies in that they
are less bureaucratic in nature and hence more flexible in their approach. He concludes that
voluntary agencies play the vital role of pioneers in experimenting with schemes for
community development.
; A01R2MA W1TAJ \JAM0ITAWA3THI 332 )
“Development With Social Change : Voluntary Projects in India”
\
(dtni&itancO : siaA ni noi&A
vw ,ywun6l ,CKROA
aGHA.JIAHT
According to this article, there are several voluntary organisations which are currently
engaged in work among rural people to help them secure more economic inputs, better
government assistance and useful technical advice. However, their stress on social services, rather
than on political education and organisation, has not served to increase the productive capacity of
the poor or to bring about changes in the socio-economic relation. But inspite of this they have
been an effective medium for social services and rural education. In this context, the article
contains brief sketches of 12 selected voluntary projects in different states of India to illustrate the
constraints which voluntary agencies face, as well as their effectiveness.
( AI3A \JAk10ITAHR3TWI 2
27
BALDWIN, G.B.
“Non-governmental Organisations and African Development:
An Inquiry”
CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY
OTTAWA, CANADA
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ AFRICA )
COOMBE, SIMON
“The Indigenous Voluntary Agency Sector and Rural Change in
India - Towards a Definition”
UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY, 1987
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
This study was carried out to draw a piciure of the impact and role of non-government formations in
the process of rural change in India. The prime aim of this study was to provide a definition of the
indigenous voluntary agency sector as it exists in rural India. The study has differentiated agencies
in terms of their approach and aims, specific objectives, types of interventions pursued, levels of
operation and attitudes, range of activities, and extent of involvement in rural areas. Special focus is
on the spread of activities, the size of operations, source and choice of funding, questions relating
to administration of agencies, level of target group participation, and the nature and extent of their
involvement with other formations active in the process of rural change.
HASAN, F.R.M.
“Landless Mobilisation: Some Conceptual Points and the Role
of NGOs”
GONOSHAJJO SANSTHA, September, 1983
DHAKA, BANGLADESH, Pages 21
The notion of mobilisation gains a new dimension with the concept of conscientisation. The author
has dealt with the dynamics of NGO mobilisation and the belief in liberation through human
development. A broad distinction is drawn between NGOs which see their activities as directed
towards improving the economic conditions of the poor and those who see human development as
a pre-condition to the same. NGOs vary from being purely income generating to purely
conscientisation oriented with a whole range of variations in between. According to the author, the
problems of poverty, inequality and exploitation have more to do with politics than economics.
HORACE, PROFESSOR; GRANT, JOHN B.
“Report of the Mission on Community Organisation and
Development in South and South East Asia”
( SEE INTERNATIONAL/ ASIA )
30
HORACE, BELSHAW; GRANT, JOHN B.
“Role of Voluntary Agencies”
UNITED NATIONS,
NEW YORK, USA, Pages 43
In this article the authors have discussed the role of voluntary, non-governmental agencies other
than village organisations and indicate both the limitations and the nature of the contributions they
can make. Voluntary agencies may assist in several ways. They may operate programmes in a
village or a group of villages, or undertake particularised activities on a wider scale. The author
has dealt with the history of voluntary organisations in India and Sri Lanka.
HARSH, SETHI
“NGOs in India - A Troubled Future?”
June 1986, NEW DELHI, INDIA
This article critically examines the role of NGOs in India from before independence to the present
era, and points out their successes and failures. In post-independence India, the relief and
charity activities dominated the NGO scene till the mid-sixties. Professional developmental
groups came up after the economic crisis and the famines of the late sixties. The
mobilisational and political, educational groups are primarily a product of the break down on the
student movements and the Naxalites struggle of the late sixties/early seventies. The
emergence of support groups and networks with a greater macro-orientation has been a feature
of the last decade. The author believes that NGOs should take urgent steps to recover their
critical tradition. He also states that the role of the government and of donors has not been
helpful in vitalising the sector.
KORTEN, DAVID C.
“Micro-policy Reforms : the Role of Private Voluntary Development Agencies
NATIONAL ASS. OF SCHOOLS OF PUBLIC AFFS. & ADMIN., No. 12
August 08, 1986
WASHINGTON D.C., USA, Pages 194
(SEE INTERNATIONAL/ NORTH AMERICA)
D’SA, MARIO CABRAL
“Rural Voluntary Bodies”
GOA, INDIA
This article deals critically with wasteland development in India, and the role of voluntary
agencies. The situation regarding the country’s wastelands is indeed alarming notes the author,
and voluntary agencies should be supported in their work in this area. The writer advocates that as
a number of voluntary agencies have suggested watchdog bodies should be formed at the rural
level to guard the environment from further degradation. But, he says, other watchdog bodies
should evaluate and categorise the work being done by voluntary organisations, particularly
those funded by external agencies.
31
MALIK, BALJIT
“The Dilemma of Peasant Organizations in Asia”
( SEE INTERNATIONAL / ASIA )
PATIL, S. JAYANT
“Role of Voluntary Agencies in Development of Rural Poor”
AGRICULTURAL INSTITUTE
KASHAD, INDIA
The author looks at the role of voluntary agencies in uplifting the rural poor, particularly the small
farmers. He has given some suggestions through which poor farmers can achieve better
results. He feels that the rural poor should be given self-employment opportunities and this
could be achieved through increase in the productivity of their land through the use of protective
irrigation, organic manures, cottage industries, social forestry, animal husbandry, etc. He
suggests that voluntary institutions could introduce low-cost technologies to the farmers to help
them boost their production.
PENDSE, S.; ROY, A.K.; SETHI, HARSH
“Political Role of Grassroots Groups
(A Look at Non-party Political Formations )”
This article is an in-depth study of the situation which confronts people working at the
grassroots level, unveiling the complexity and the variety of problems which they face, and,
implying therefore, a diversity of responses. It also raises some questions regarding the role
played by non-party political formations. It examines the various forms of people’s
participation, both at the governmental bureaucratic level, and at the grassroots mass movement
level. It looks at some of the problems which impede participation in the true sense. The paper also
analyses economic, political and social processes which influence the functioning of non-party
organisations, and discusses the debate which is going on regarding their role and achievements.
The writers believe that this debate gives strength to the possibility of non-party political formations.
ROY, AJIT
“Activist Groups: Fundamental Issues”
This article critically deals with some fundamental issues concerning activist groups which are
now caught in a web of stagnation all over the world. The author has dealt with the perceived
role and planned objectives of action groups which enter reality of the poor and the oppressed
and attempt to give voice to the voiceless. He looks at the role of action groups as part of a wider
social movement and says that social action has to begin at the micro-level. He outlines the
operational steps in defining objectives and then resolving the contradictions that would surface
between the objectives so defined and their methods of work.
34
O
O
ROY, A.K.
“Between Dogma and Debate - The Problem of Communication
Between Groups and Individual Engaged in Social Development”
ICSSR, February, 1982
NEW DELHI, INDIA
In this study the author has examined the problem of communication between groups and
individuals engaged in social development and change. The author traces the various movements
for social change in Indian society, starting from the Independence movement to modern
times. Selecting the main features of these movements, he has tried to set up a hypothesis to
explain what leads to change in society. He has examined this hypothesis in the light of the
activities in the post-independence era. From such a hypothesis he has attempted to define the
words “groups”, “individual”, “social development”, “social change” and “communication”, putting
them into the frame-work of history. From a reconstruction of Indian history over the last fifty
years he has tried to paint a picture of the future.
SAINT, KISHORE
“Whither Voluntarism ? - A Gandhian Response”
March 30,1987
UDAIPUR, INDIA
The writer deals with voluntary work in the Aravilis which has been a drought affected area for the
last three years. In this context, he stresses the Gandhian approach to voluntarism. The writer
points out that the first step in the Gandhian-voluntarist response is this recognition of impending
doom of which the plight of the impoverished is an early signal. The bulk of institutional
voluntary work both Gandhian and non-Gandhian, belongs to this category and it suffers from the
same hardening of heart, and incapacity of intellect. It will require confronting, challenging
and changing the established modes and structure of the state, corporative society, Church and
even voluntary sector at different levels.
SHAH, GHANSHYAM; DAS, BISWAROOP
“Voluntary Organisations in Gujarat - An Exploratory Study”
CENTRE FOR SOCIAL STUDIES, July, 1988
SURAT, INDIA
This paper deals with the role and character of NGOs in Gujarat. It focuses on the overview of the
socio-economic conditions prevailing in the state, the major problems faced by the deprived and
underprivileged groups, and governmental plans and their focus on development with reference to
the deprived sections. The paper also highlights the distribution and types of NGOs working towards
the development of the underprivileged in the state. The paper examines the relationship between
the state government and NGOs in Gujarat.
35
VIEGAS, PHILIP
“Catalysts of a People’s Movement”
Pages 17
This paper reviews the assumptions underlying the operational base for action groups. Within
the context of this broader perspective, their structure and strategy too has been discussed. While
discussing action groups and the different modalities their involvement takes at the grassroots
level, their broader objectives and the meaning of these objectives are examined. There is a
need to take a critical look at the assumptions, structure and strategy of the action groups and
see how they hinder or help the progress of this movement. Belief in people’s power is the prime
motivating force behind the programmes that are geared towards the mobilisation of the people and
community organisation. The way a group is structured can either be supportive of the task it
undertakes or it can be a constant constraint on the group.
WIGNARAJA, PONNA
“Entry Points for Innovative Approaches to Rural Development”
The author has pointed out certain changes in programmes of development cooperation, with
recommendations for improvements. Rural development has to be seen as a total process of
economic, social, human and integral rural development. There is a need to take a hard look at the
international bureaucracy, the donor bureaucracy and national bureaucracy and develop new
capacities for relevant and flexible interventions and responses. In this context, the author looks at
various entry points which can be used for innovative approaches, such as participatory action
research and grassroots action. He also looks at the steps which funders should take prior to funding
grassroots action, in order to ensure that it is a smooth process.
YOUNG INDIA PROJECT TEAM
“Development of the Dependent Groups in the Context of the
Politics of the Dominant Groups: The Role of Activist Groups”
December, 1981
PENUKONDA, INDIA
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
c
o
o
o
o
o
o
O
O
o
o
o
o
o
O
O
The paper focuses on the role of NGOs in the context of the politics of the dominant groups
which are based in urban as well as rural areas. The advantage which the dominant groups have is
that they been able to organise themselves around social and socio-economic issues, and are
therefore able to control capital and productive assets, as well as political parties. On the other hand,
NGOs and other dependent groups have not been able to organise themselves around any
common issues, and hence have not become a force to be reckoned with. Consequently, they
have to depend on the dominant groups and political parties for their economic and functional
survival. The paper suggests that dependent groups and NGOs must organise themselves and
raise their struggle to the highest plane so that they can overcome the system itself. The socio
economic systems of the dominant groups have to be replaced by those of the dependent groups
if any viable change has to take place.
38
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Workshops/Meetings/Conferences
ELDRIDGE, PHILIP
“The Political Role of Non-government Organisations and
‘Micro Movements’ in India”
CENTRE FOR SOCIAL STUDIES, 1983
SURAT, INDIA
This paper, presented at a seminar, is based on the premise that politics is a necessary and
legitimate process in any society and it cannot be separated from everyday life. Hence, the writer
says, NGOs should participate in political processes with a clear conscience. He further makes an
attempt in the paper to show how such political participation can be achieved in relation to
fundamental goals, and how NGOs could find some alternative political structures with direct
popular involvement and participation. He suggests an approach of seeking to capture power
within the present structure.
FAO-FFHC/ACTION FOR DEVELOPMENT
“Report of a Workshop for NGOs in Sierra Leone”
FAO, 1984
ROME, ITALY, Pages 23
(SEE INTERNATIONAL/ AFRICA)
GANDHI PEACE FOUNDATION
“Report of the National Conference on the Role of
Voluntary Agencies in the Gandhi Centenary”
1969
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This report deals with the question of intensifying the activities of voluntary agencies and of
enlarging and helping them to expand. It stresses that voluntary organisations should aim at
integrating the different language and religious groups and create appreciation and understanding
among them.
MENDEZ, LUIS LOPEZLLER
“The Changing Role of NGOs in Latin America”
March 25-28,1988
NEW DELHI, INDIA
(SEE INTERNATIONAL/ LATIN AMERICA)
39
GENERAL
Books
RAO, ARUNASREE P. THE ROLE OF NCOS IN COMMUNITY LEVEL BROKERING OF
TECHNOLOGY IN INDIA AND BANGLADESH INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT RE
SEARCH CENTRE & ROCKEFELLER FOUNDATION,
December, 1986
WASHINGTON, USA
(SEE DIRECTORIES, INDEXES AND LITERATURE REVIEW)
t
Papers
KULKARNI, SHARAD;
“Voluntary Work Among Adivasis”
WORKSHOP PAPER
CENTRE FOR TRIBAL CONSCIENTISATION,
May 3-5,1984
PUNE, INDIA, Pages 2
This paper distinguishes between voluntary agencies on the basis of two parameters infrastruc
ture and budget, and also grades them into three types of social action groups. It briefly high
lights examples where joint action and agitation have influenced amendments in the
resolutions passed by the government, in regularisation of encroachment, 1979 and the Forest
Bill Draft of 1981. Three forms of co-operation models are suggested, formal networks, informal
networks, linkages through suggested agencies. In co-operating with the government, the author
proposes the use of government loans and schemes to organise the poor. He provides
information about Rural Employment Schemes, minimum wages for agricultural labourers, new
reform laws and rights over forest land and produce.
43
PAI PANANDIKER, V.A.
“Strategies for Increased Involvement of NGOs, Local Government and Institute for
Promoting Greater Community Participation in Family Planning”
CENTRE FOR POLICY RESEARCH, July, 1983
NEW DELHI, INDIA
(SEE NGOS AND STATE)
ROY, PRODIPTO
“The Role of NGOs and Groups in Employment Generation”
August, 1979
INDIA
The article traces the role historical role of NGOs in employment generating programmes and
has emphasised that in the beginning, most of these organisations had a religious affiliation and
were charitable in nature, gradually becoming more developmental in their outlook, taking up
many new activities, including employment generation activities, with vigor but not much
detailed planning. The writer suggests a model of associating a technical planning institution
with NGOs so that work can be more streamlined and professional. Details of how this associa
tion can take place are discussed in the paper.
WIJKMAN, ANDERS “A Question of Vulnerability : The Philippine Disaster Situation”
June, 1986
(SEE INTERNATIONAL ASIA)
WANASINGHE, H.S.
“Role of Peasant Organisations in Rural Development”
Peasant organisations as defined in this study include all organisations of small and mar
ginal farmers, owners, tenants, share croppers and agricultural workers who constitute the
majority of the rural population. This study reiterates that rural development when viewed in
the context of national development is more than a question merely of increase in agricul
tural production and productivity. It can be seen as a process which seeks to bring about a
multifaceted transformation of the rural scene. The changes that need to take place in the rural
sector itself are also outlined. This study analyses various aspects of the characteristics,
role, effect,impact of the local power structure, impact of policy environment, and environ
mental realities of peasant organisations.
44
1
HEALTH
Books
FONAROFF, ARLENE
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN HEALTH SYSTEMS FOR PRIMARY HEALTH CARE
WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION,
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND
In this study the author points out the most viable and practical solutions for achieving the
health goals set for the 21st century. The report advocates the Primary Health care ap
proach, with community involvement as the most crucial aspect for achieving this target.
The study believes that each country has its own set of issues and problems related to health
and the methodology for tackling these should be country-specific. Examples have been
given of unified national programmes in Tanzania and Yugoslavia, decentralised sectorial
programmes in the republic of Korea, the Philippines and Jamaica, and of non-governmental
initiatives in Sri Lanka, Thailand and Nigeria. The report introduces the concept of “upward
planning and downward support”. It highlights the need to reorient health systems, and lays
stress on participatory evaluation. The report has made suggestions for action in which
member-states, international agencies and the WHO can further strengthen community
involvement.
Papers
CHARYULU, U.N.V.; SEETHARAM, MUKKAVILLI; SRINIVASAN, S.; NATARAJAN,
V.K.
“Health Care Programmes Through Voluntary Action - a Study in two States”
1988 NIRD, HYDERABAD, INDIA
This is a case study on health care programmes through voluntary action and the role of
voluntary organisations in the health delivery system. The main objectives of the study were to
study the organisational structure of voluntary agencies, examine the nature, content and
coverage of health care programmes delivered by them. The most important problems faced
by voluntary organisations is the lack of adequate financial resources.
JESANI, AMAR; ET AL
“NGOs in Rural Health Care”
FRCH,Vol. 1, March, 1986
BOMBAY, INDIA, Pages 176
According to this report, NGOs in the field of health care have gained considerable importance
since the emergence of the community health approach. This study analyses the macro
level aspects of the intervention of NGOs in this field, especially those who use alternative
models of delivery. The study covers 45 NGOs working in rural Maharashtra, spread over
nineteen districts. It gives an insight into the strategies used by different groups for entry
into the community to activise them to participate in various programmes and projects.
45
HARTFIELD, ANN
“In Support of Women : Ten Years of Funding by Inter American Foundation”
INTER AMERICAN FOUNDATION,
September, 1982 USA
IAF has been paying increasing attention to women’s development from 1972 to 1982. The
Foundation funds projects that educate, raise levels of awareness and help women to make
choices more creatively. It helps to build their confidence and teach them diverse skills.
Priority is given for direct assistance to social and economic programmes. The foundation
encourages greater understanding of the poor women in Latin America and the Caribbean
through research and dissemination of information.
MALGAVKAR, P.D.
“Rural Health Care - The Jamkhed Project”
CENTRE FOR POLICY RESEARCH,
1981, NEW DELHI, INDIA
(SEE CASE STUDIES)
^UBRAMANIAM, ASHOK; MEHTA, MONA
“A Profile of Voluntary Health Efforts in Gujarat”
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT,
No. 509, May, 1984
AHMEDABAD, INDIA
In this paper, the author has described voluntary health agencies in Gujarat. The study is
based on a survey of about 100 such agencies in the state, and emphasises their patterns of
distribution in the state, their services and reach, and their work in relation to the state. The
data was organised on the basis of questionnaires relating to performance, services,
finances and organisation. In Gujarat the distribution of NGOs shows a concentration mainly
in the developed districts. The funding and sponsorship patterns of the NGos are also exam
ined.
TARE, S.P.
“International Meeting on Voluntary Organisations in Leprosy”
September 13-14,1986
BOMBAY, INDIA
Clear-cut ideas are mentioned regarding the role, nature and history of voluntary agencies
working on leprosy eradication, both nationally and internationally, but the paper focuses on
agencies working in India. The rple of these agencies is discussed. The discussion has
given more importance to community awareness and people’s participation in eradicating lep
rosy. The paper analyses the relationship between government and voluntary agencies, coordi
nation of voluntary organisations within the country, and the coordination between international
and national voluntary organisations.
46
WOMEN
Books
CHEN, MARTY, ET AL
NDIAN WOMEN :
A STUDY OF THEIR ROLE IN THE DAIRY MOVEMENT
NEW DELHI, INDIA
Operation Flood and the dairy movement in India are well known. What has not been re
searched or promoted is the critical role rural women play in India’s dairy sector. This volume
is a detailed study of attempts to integrate poor rural women into the national dairy movement.
The book begins with an introductory chapter on traditional and modern dairying in India and the
role women have played. This is followed by four case studies which explore dairy program
mes for women in different parts of the country. The study concludes with a set of convinc
ing and practicable national policy recommendations which can effectively integrate women into
the dairy sector.
Journals
BHATT, ELA R.
“Organising Self-Employed Women - The Sewa Experiment”
INDIAN AND FOREIGN REVIEW,
August 31,1984
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 22-25
(SEE CASE STUDIES)
DESAI, M.M. “Voluntary Workers and Rehabilitation of Women”
THE INDIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK,
Vol. XXI, No. 1, June, 1960,
TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES,
BOMBAY, INDIA
(SEE SOCIAL WORK AND SOCIAL WELFARE)
47
JHABVALA, RENANA; JUMANI, USHA;
“Experiences of Organising Home-based Workers in India”
WORKSHOP ON HOME-BASED WORKERS IN INDIA
March 29-31,1986
AHMEDABAD, INDIA
The authors feel that home-based workers have not been helped by either social welfare
organisations, or trade unions, or production oriented organisations. As a result, they are
not organised and are vulnerable to exploitation. The authors share their experiences of organi
sing home-based workers, highlighting their problems and offer suggestions for integrating
them into the mainstream economy as workers. Examples of the issues around which home
based workers can be organised, the processes of organising, and some successful efforts of
organising home-based workers, the majority of whom are women, are also included.
EDUCATION
Papers
ANKUR SOCIETY
“Past, Present and Future - An Overview”
NEW DELHI, INDIA
(CASE STUDIES)
SWAMINATHAN, M.S.
“The Role of Education and Research in Enhancing Rural Women’s Income and House
hold Happiness”
CENTRE FOR WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT STUDIES,
NEW DELHI, INDIA
It is the conviction of the author that only when women are enabled to participate in an equal
measure with men in national development that effective remedies can be found for the major
socio-economic maladies facing our country such as rapid population growth, under and
mal-nutrition leading to a possible stunting of physical and mental development in children,
under and unemployment and extensive, co-destruction. The challenge hence lies in integrat
ing brain (technology), brawn (physical work) and bank (credit and other resources) in a
mutually supportive manner so that both men and women can play an active role in improving
the productivity, profitability, stability and sustainability of major farming systems.
SACHIDANANDA
“Voluntary Efforts in National Adult Education
Programme in Bihar: An Appraisal”
A. N. SINHA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL STUDIES,
1980 PATNA, INDIA
This paper presents a discussion on the problems of voluntary agencies in Bihar. It focuses
on 22 voluntary agencies in general, with particular reference to their financial management,
activities they are engaged in, previous efforts in education, organisational structure, involve
ment in NAEP, etc. The paper highlights the experiences of these NGOs and goes on to
examine why they have not succeeded in implementing the NAEP in Bihar. Problems regard
ing release of funds, attitude of government functionaries, and so on are discussed. The writer
feels that it is important that steps should be taken to control all these problems, and to give
greater publicity to the programme so as to involve more people in it. He feels that the entire
programme should be viewed not merely as an educational effort but in the total context of
development which the programme is expected to promote and accelerate.
50
Workshops/ Meetings/ Conferences
RYDSTROM GUNNAR (ED),
“Adult Education,development and International aid : Some Issues and Trends”
THE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL FOR ADULT EDUCATION, 1987
TORONTO, CANADA, Pages 96
This is the report of an international seminar held in Sweden, on the Role of International Aid in
Adult Education, which was organised by the International Council for Adult Education. The
seminar was organised to enable decision makers in industrialised and developing countries to
make tangible improvements in the substance and method of international cooperation for
adult education. The issues covered in this report include the role that adult education and
NGOs can play in the development process, the need for closer collaboration and mutual
support amongst all the development actors, and the degree to which funding agencies
realise that economic growth of the GNP kind are insufficient to meet crucial issues such as the
alleviation of mass poverty and improvement in the quality of life. The report is based on
papers presented, reports from discussion groups, interviews recorded individually between
sessions, and contributions made formally or informally.
ENVIRONMENT
Books
AGGARWAL, ANIL
THE FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL - PEOPLE’S ACTION FOR ENVIRONMENT
CENTRE FOR SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENT,
1987 NEW DELHI, INDIA
This book gives the reader an idea of the nature of struggles being waged by individuals and
voluntary groups across the world, and especially in India, to protect the environment. This book
is a compilation of the papers presented at a seminar on Environment and People’s Subsistence,
organised by the Centre for Science and Environment in November 1986. It centers around two
main themes : - What are the vital issues of the State today, determining the survival of mil
lion’s world wide? - How have people organised themselves to cope with this challenge ? It
consists of papers presented on topics such as Dams, Forests, Population and Mining. This
book concentrate on causes, campaigns and human endeavor - some on-going, some success
ful, and some irretrievably lost.
COMMUNITY HEALTH C£U
326, V Main, i Slock
’
51
Koramengala
S
Bangalore-SGOOM f
-I oo
India
Journals
MALIK, SADIQ
“Expanding the Role of NGOs in National Forestry Programmes
LOKNITI,
Vol. 4, No. 1, January, 1987
ANGOC, MANILA, PHILIPPINES
According to the author, in recent years, both internationally and at the national level, the
importance of ensuring that forestry programmes are geared to a declared social purpose has
received considerable attention. However, the author observes that participatory approaches
have not yet become a part of the development activities of forest services in the region, al
though a number of NGOs are successfully using the participatory approach in their work.
He also says that NGO action can be supportive of government action and hasten the changes
that the government would like to see and which the countries so desperately need. But
he also points out that a number of NGOs are working in isolation, and suggests that it is time
for NGOs to collaborate and cooperate with each other in order to facilitate social change
which is imperative in the Asian region.
Workshoos/ Meetings/ Conferences
“Proceedings of State Seminar of NGO on Environment”
INDIAN COUNCIL OF RURAL YOUTH,
August 15-16, 1987
CALCUTTA, INDIA
A noteworthy feature of this seminar was that it brought together representatives from various
parts of West Bengal, representing, non-governmental organisations working in the field
of environment. This report contains several articles by prominent environmentalists, dealing
with a number of aspects of the problems of environment in the state, as well as what NGOs
are doing to alleviate the situation.
52
HOUSING
Books
POULOSE, K. THOMAS
INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO HOUSING THE POOR THE ROLE OF VOLUNTARY AGENCIES
ST. JOSEPH’S PRESS, 1988
TRIVANDRUM, INDIA, Pages 280
This publication provides the readers an insight into how voluntary organisations function,
and how state agencies need to interact with them. The book describes in general terms, the
housing situation in Kerala and the several innovative solutions the State government has
adopted over the years in solving the housing problems of the poor. The author observes that
housing the poor should be considered as a responsibility of the community which should
function as a catalyst in helping the poor to help themselves. What is needed is not government
programmes with people’s participation, but people’s programmes with government partici
pation.
Journals
PATEL, SHEELA
“To Do or to Empower”
EKLAVYA, 1985
INDIA
The article deals with the Nagpada Neighbourhood House(NHH) of Bombay. It traces how NNH
set about identifying the needs of the local population, mainly migrants, and raised funds to see
that their needs were met. As a result, it became a service, delivery giant in the area. The writer
traces the steps which were taken to overcome this image, and the strategies used to ensure
that the participation of the people became a significant factor in the process. The various
interactions with the community and the authorities are outlined, and a major outcome of these
was the involvement of women. The writer opines that the main lesson learnt from the
experience was the value of empowering people, of leading them through a process from which
more change can be expected. It becomes the basis of political awareness and education
and can create an environment for demanding change.
53
Papers
HABITAT INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL
“Non-government Organisations : Their Role in Shelter Services
and Community Development”
March 30-1,1987
LIMURU, KENYA
This report looks at the operational differences and similarities between NGOs and community
based organisations (CBOs). It also examines some practical problems arising in NGO-CBO
relations, as well as their relationship with the government. The report highlights that NGOs
and CBOs should act and influence government policies in the short, medium and long term,
but must remain autonomous vis-a-vis the state. NGOs and CBOs have a key role to play in
helping to translate social movements into a political presence, but not on a party basis.
INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION
Journals
WADIA, AVBAI B.
“The Role of Voluntary Organisations in a Communication Strategy for Family Planning”
THE JOURNAL OF FAMILY WELFARE,
Vol. 26, No. 1, September, 1979
FAMILY PLANNING ASSOCIATION OF INDIA,
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 3 - 8
The author is of the view that communications is the vital means by which people in India could
be persuaded to adopt Family Planning. Due to the diversity in economic, social and cultural
patterns, communications presents a great challenge. The main need of the Family Planning
programme is to increase its reach, to intensify demand, to establish near total acceptability and
to satisfy the demand through creating multiple and easy-access channels of information,
advice, services and regular supply. Voluntary organisations can play a positive role because
they have an advantage of being part of the community. They can create confidence among
people at the grassroot level.
54
AGRICULTURE
Journals
SEETHARAM, MUKKAVILLI
“Land Reforms : Voluntary Action Needed”
KURUKSHETRA, October, 1986
PUBLICATIONS DIVISION, GOVT. OF INDIA,
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 53 - 56
The author points out that land alienation occurs in many parts of India due to legal loopholes,
official collusion, and the exploitation of the scheduled tribes. The existing network of peas
ant organisations are not adequate to carry the benefits of land reforms to the poor. And it is
here that voluntary agencies can play an important role, by educating the people and acting as a
via media between them and the authorities. The author outlines ways in which voluntary agen
cies can play this role, as well as the impediments which stand in their way.
HASAN, F.R.M.
“Landless Mobilisation: Some Conceptual Points and the Role of NGOs”
GONOSHAJJO SANSTHA, September, 1983
DACCA, BANGLADESH, Pages 21
(SEE HISTORY/ROLE/OVERVIEW)
55
Books
BHATT, ANIL
REHABILITATION APPROACH TO POVERTY ALLEVIATION: A STUDY OF
BAIF’S TRIBAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT IN VANSDA
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT, 1988
AHMEDABAD, INDIA, Pages 148
The author has critically analysed models, approaches and designs for rural development
and poverty removal organised by government and non-governmental organisations. He has
made a study of a poverty alleviation programme which expects to help the poor to over
come poverty and the accompanying ills permanently. The study examines the poverty
alleviation programme in Vanada taluka of south Gujarat, undertaken by Bharat Agro Indus
tries Foundation (BAIF), a Pune base Voluntary Organisation. This is the first integrated develop
ment programme where BAIF has major involvement of working with the rural poor directly and
intensively. In the Vansda project, the emphasis is primarily on economic development supple
mented by attempts to raise the physical quality of life to alleviate poverty.
DAS GUPTA, SUGATA;
EXTENDING HORIZONS
“Social Work and Social Change : A Case Study in Indian
Village Development”
PORTER SARGENT, 1968
LONDON, UK
On the basis of case studies, opinion and attitude surveys of leaders, institutions, program
mes, methods and their impact, a comparative assessment of villages has been provided. The
author has identified three ingredients of a “system” of social development, and compares
the two groups to highlight how the system works. The aim of social work according to the
author is not only institutionalisation of the process of social change but its socialisation as
well. The broadening of vision, the expansion of the territorial base, personal change,
vertical mobility and democratic give-and-take, are some of the vital features of the type of
change that social work endeavours to bring in. The author feels that community organisations
in a developing society should be secular in nature.
59
KALE, PRATIMA; COOMBS, PHILIP H.
“Project To Help Practitioners Help the Rural Poor”
THE SOCIAL WORK AND RESEARCH CENTRE: AN INTEGRATED TEAM
APPROACH IN INDIA
INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL FOR EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, No. 3,
USA
This is a case study of the Social Work and Research Centre in Tilonia, Rajasthan, which is an
experiment in rural development at the grassroots level. The case study highlights SWRC’s
experiences of integration, community participation and educational strategies, and looks
at this as a basis for future action by other voluntary agencies. Yhe case study also
highlights the fact that, according to the lessons learnt from SWRC’s experiences, one of the
crucial components of effective functioning of an NGO is integration at all levels - within the
organisation, with the community, and with the various components of the environment of a
voluntary organisation. The case study also points out some important problems, limitations,
and vulnerabilities of voluntary agencies, especially in connection with staff, leadership and
finances.
RAO, P. VENKAT
WORKING WITH RURAL POVERTY GROUPS - STUDY OF A
NON-GOVERNMENTAL INITIATIVE
THE VILLAGE EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT SOCIETY, 1987
KARNATAKA, INDIA
In this book the author observes that the concept of people’s participation, particularly the
poor, in their own development, came up in the seventies, and wider acceptance of this proc
ess gained was through the work of non-governmental agencies. Despite political and structural
constraints, NGO initiatives continue to play the catalytic role of bringing about desired
participation and social change in society. The book presents an NGO initiative in the drought
hit region of Karnataka and documents the process of education and community organisa
tion work achieved in a span of seven years in the region by the Village Education and
Development Society which is a non-governmental working in Pavagada taluk of Tumkur
district in Karnataka state.
SRIVASTAVA, UMA KANT; GEORGE, P.S
RURAL DEVELOPMENT IN ACTION
SOMAIYA PUBLICATIONS PVT. LTD.,
BOMBAY, INDIA
This book is a study of development programmes undertaken by a voluntary agency, the
Bharatiya Agro-lndustries Foundation, (BAIF), Uruli Kanchan. It covers four major projects of
BAIF,the lift irrigation programme, the cattle development project, the joint co-operative
farming society and the Tractor Hiring unit. In analysing these projects, the book focuses on
some basic questions. What exactly has been achieved? Can it be repeated? The analysis is
based on data collected from the ultimate beneficiaries of the project and from BAIF. The
book also attempts to trace the change in the organisational structure of BAIF which occurred
with the expansion of its activities. Finally, the book seeks to draw general conclusions,
based on BAIF’s experience about the planning and implementation of rural development
programmes.
60
VERHAGEN, KOENRAAD
SELF-HELP PROMOTION : A CHALLENGE TO THE NGO COMMUNITY
C5BEM0 & ROYAL TROPICAL INSTITUTE, 1987
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS, Pages 152
This report is based on the activities of Cebemo which is a Dutch organisation for development
cooperation, and which acts as a channel for the joint financing programme of the Dutch
government, on behalf of the Dutch Catholic community. This is an integrated report of a study
conducted by three NGOs in Brazil, Indonesia and Thailand on the promotion of economic
activities in rural areas. The report is divided into two parts. The first part is concerned with the
premises, concepts and methodology of the study, and has been written in such a way that it can
be used as a discussion paper and working document for any organisation considering the
possibility of undertaking a study of comparable nature and focus. The second part deals with
the findings and conclusions. The operations of local NGos, termed self-help promotion
institutions, are reviewed, together with their interaction with other self-help organisations,
and an overall system of self-help promotion is synthesised from the findings.
Journals
“Gandhian Approach to Development: the Case of Bali Canti
Sena”
PRISMA, 1980
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 51 - 58
The Ashram of the Bali Canti Sena Foundation strives to instill among members of the neigh
bouring communities a sense of self-sufficiency and self-reliance, as well as responsive
attitudes towards modernisation based on the Gandhian principles of truth and nonviolence.
This paper gives details of how the Ashram operates, the types of programmes it runs, and
the operational aspects of its work.
ALI BAIG, TARA
“Strengths and Weaknesses of a Voluntary Agency”
EKLAVYA, 1985
INDIA
The writer, herself one of the founders of SOS villages in India, says that committed members
of voluntary organisations always have to struggle to find the finances and public support to set
up services. SOS villages were set up to give asylum to neglected, retarded and or
phaned children. It was, the writer states, not only an asylum but a home to provide them love
and care. It was introduced to make children whom nobody wants, feel wanted and to bring
them up in an atmosphere natural to children and natural to their social pattern of the joint family
in India. Therefore, children of the SOS villages have known love and security. The writer
stresses that volunteers must have the freedom to function to achieve the required results
and any effort by the government to curb or systematise such work will only kill the basic
drive that makes people take up voluntary work.
61
BHATT, ELA R.
“Organising Self-employed Women - the Sewa Experiment”
INDIAN AND FOREIGN REVIEW, August 31,1984
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 22 - 25
The present article focuses on the evolution and activities of the Self Employed Women’s
Association (SEWA) of Ahmedabad, which is a trade union, with the objectives of getting recog
nition and fair wages to self-employed women. The organisation has also created banking
and credit facilities for poor women, and set up its own economic units. It is spread all over the
country and also operates in rural areas.
CHOWDHURY, NEERAJ
“Working for a Voluntary Agency”
EKLAVYA, 1985
INDIA
The writer gives a brief account of Mobile Creches, a voluntary organisation attempting to bring
basic services to the children and day care centre at different work sites in Delhi, Bombay and
Pune. Besides, child care, the agency has also tried to link migrant workers to the services
available in an alien city where they work at construction sites. In many instances, the
volunteers have also been able to persuade the contractor to open creches and other facilities
for workers, guaranteed to them under various labour laws. The writer also highlights the
handicaps of the Mobile Creches.
CHARYULU, U.N.V.; SEETHARAM, MUKKAVILLI;
SRINIVASAN, S.; NATARAJAN, V.K.
“Health Care Programmes Through Voluntary Action - a Study
in two States” 1988
NIRD, HYDERABAD, INDIA
This is a case study on health care programmes through voluntary action and the role of volun
tary organisations in the delivery system. The main objectives of the study were to examine
the organisational structure of voluntary agencies, their nature, content and coverage of
health care programmes. The most important problem faced by the voluntary organisations
is the lack of adequate financial resources.
GUPTA, ANIL K.
“Making Banking Accessible in Backward Regions : a Case Study
of Voluntary Initiatives and Organisations” 1988
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT, AHMEDABAD, INDIA
This paper is a preliminary draft prepared by the writer. The recommendations are based on
case studies developed by I IM, Ahmedabad with regard to improving the access of the poor to
the banking system, and also to the resources and skills necessary for converting their
resources into investments. The writer believes that the time frame in which different recom
mendations need to be implemented will depend upon NABARD and its perception of the envi
ronment. The case studies which have been discussed in this paper are Sewa Bank, Syndicate
Agricultural Foundation (SAF) Farming Clinic, and Gujarat Institute of Area Planning (GIAP).
The paper also highlights critical factors like disbursement policies, seasonality, monetary
and follow-up which play a critical role in formulating policies.
62
NATARAJAN, V.K.
“Participation in Rural Development: A Case Study”
KURUKSHETRA, November 01,1982
PUBLICATIONS DIVISION, GOVT. OF INDIA
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 13 -16
This article highlights the fact that the only factor which can make development programmes
succeed is the participation of the people. The author uses an example of the implementation of
the Whole Village Development Programme (WVDP), which is a government scheme, in
Mushari Block of Muzaffarpur district, Bihar and analyses the role of voluntary agencies in rural
development. The implementation of the WVDP in Mushari block was entrusted to a voluntary
agency - the Muzaffarpur Development Agency (MDA). The article looks at how MDA went
about implementing the programme with the full participation of the villagers, and the conse
quent success of the programme. The author concludes that by catalysing the rural
population, and by identifying themselves with the people, MDA ensured people’s participa
tion and the success of the programme.
PATEL, SHEELA
“To do or to Empower”
EKLAVYA, 1985
INDIA
The article gives an account of the Nagpada Neighbourhood House (NHH) of Bombay.lt
traces how NNH set about identifying the needs of the local population, mainly the migrants,
and raising funds to see that their needs were met. As a result, it became a service delivery
giant in the area. The writer traces the steps which were taken to overcome the image, and the
strategies used to ensure that the participation of the people became a significant factor in
the process. The various interactions with the community and the authorities are outlined, and
one of the major outcomes of these interactions was the involvement of women. The writer
states that the main lesson learnt from the experience was the value of empowering people, of
leading them through a process from which more changes can be expected. It becomes the
basis of political awareness and education and can create an environment for demanding
change.
PISHAROTI, K.A.; AND OTHERS
ACTION RESEARCH MONOGRAPH
“The Athoor Experience : Implications for a Statewide Family
Planning Programme”
GANDHIGRAM INSTITUTE OF RURAL HEALTH & FAMILY PLANNING, No. 4,1971
TAMIL NADU, INDIA
According to this study, India is one of the few countries that has planned health care services
as an integral part of general socio-economic development. This is even more pronounced in
the Family Planning programmes of the Government. A Pilot Health Project was started in
order to stabilise and to meet the growing needs of the national family planning programme. The
project was institutionalised in 1964 by the Institute of Rural Health and Family Planning. This
report summarises the experiences of this Institute’s family planning programme for the period of
1962-70.
63
SWAMINATHAN, MINA
“Mobile Creches : Organisational Relationships”
EKLAVYA, 1985
INDIA
The writer traces the beginning of mobile creches and analyses the objectives, legal basis and
organisation. He says that the objective is to deliver services at the doorstep to the children of
migrant workers. At first the service was envisaged in the form of small creches for infants;
later it developed into a comprehensive and integrated day-care programme for children from
birth to 12 years and for older family members. Its thrust was on health, nutrition, education,
recreation, community work and pre-vocational training. The writer stresses that no pro
gramme can continue for long, without paid workers; although the support of voluntary workers is
also required. In the article, the writer describes the financial structure and the management
procedures of the Mobile Creches and gives a few suggestions for improvement.
Papers
ANKUR SOCIETY
“Past, Present and Future - An Overview”
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This is the report of an evaluation of Ankur, which is an organisation which works in urban
slums and resettlement colonies on literacy programmes. The evaluation was undertaken by
members of the staff, with an external facilitator. It outlines the work of the organisation, its
history, its programmes, etc. It also outlines the organisational issues which arose and the plans
made for tackling these issues, as well for future programming strategies. The paper
highlights that for Ankur change was essential and significant. But, it is important to establish
that the change is based largely on the insight and learning gained through the work itself and
not because of any external or theoretical inputs alone.
BSCMPF LIMITED
“Bihar Women Diary Project - an Income-generation, Asset-creation
and Women’s Development Programme for Women of Bihar”
1987, INDIA
This is the report of a diary project for women in Bihar which is a demonstration model of the
strategies for effectively putting women into the mainstream diary co-operative sector. The
objectives of this project are to generate grassroots level leadership and enable active
participation of poor rural women in their own village economy, as well as to provide employment
for poor rural women through income-generating activities. The model it is based on is the Anand
model of Dairy Cooperative Societies. This report provides a historical perspective of how
the cooperative was started, its programmes, etc.
64
L-
KASHTAKARI SANGHATANA
“The Kashtakari Sanghatana: a Review of the Past Twenty-two
Months - a Historical Survey”
MAHARASHTRA, INDIA
This is a case study of Kashtakari Sanghatana, an organisation operating in the rural areas of
Maharashtra. It examines the goals of the organisation and how the programmes and proj
ects support this goal, through a process mobilisation, conscientisation and liberation
of the toiling masses. The efforts of Kashtakari Sanghatana are located among the rural
poor, the small and marginal farmers and landless labourers.
MALGAVKAR, P.D.
“Rural Health Care - The Jamkhed Project”
CENTRE FOR POLICY RESEARCH, 1981
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This is a case study of a health project carried out in Jamkhed, Maharashtra. The writer has
provided a brief geographical description of the place and its background, economic and social.
He describes the role of a group of social workers who first started working in this area on
health and then slowly became involved in an integrated rural development project, covering
non-formal education, economic programmes, women’s groups, etc.
ROY, DAVID
ACoorg Organisation for Rural Development”
This paper discusses the main objectives for setting up the Coorg Organisation for Rural
Development. The main reason for organising the process was to take up immediate com
mon problems, to encourge leadership among the villagers to form a people’s committee to
take up the responsibility to solve their problems and to make the organisation a catalyst of
change.
TETE, D.R.; GHOSH, D.K.
“Role of Voluntary Agencies in Rural Development”
VIKAS MAITRI,
RANCHI, INDIA
Vikas Maitri is a society which works in Chhotanagpur and Santhal Pargana district of Bihar. Its
efforts are mainly based on conscientising and motivating people, equipping them with
technical know-how and managerial skills by organising various training programmes for rural
youth of this region. The curriculum of the training covers a wide range of subjects, such as
basic rural sociology, organising skills, land reforms, agriculture and animal husbandry
extension network, apprenticeship etc. It also organises training programmes in integrated
rural development. This paper gives a detailed study of the work of Vikas Maitri and analyses its
way of functioning.
65
VAN GENT, VIRGIL; STERNFELD, JOB
“Management and Organisation Aspects of Service-rendering
Organisations in Third World Countries: A Case Study on SWRC”
RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOR MANAGEMENT SCIENCES, September, 1981
DELFT, NETHERLANDS, Pages 89
This case study is a part of a research study done by the authors for their M.Sc. course. The
report contains a summary of the history of the Social Work Research Centre of Tilonia,
Rajasthan, followed by a description of how the development philosophy of the organisation
evolved over the years and the activities it is involved in. Within this context, the authors
analyse the management practices in the organisation, from the early years to the present,
outlining in detail the various dimensions of management which are being faced by the organ
isation at the time of writing the report.
VENKATACHALAM, R.
“The Community Services Guild - A Report”
March, 1982
MADRAS, INDIA
This is a report on the activities, achievements and future plans of the Community Services
Guild, Madras, which is a voluntary agency which came into existence in 1980, with the aim
of building up the weaker sections of society, with particular emphasis on women workers.
Their focus is on women, because they believe that by women’s development the total develop
ment of the family and the society can take place. The report gives a glimpse of the working of
this organisation.
“Association for Promoting Social Awareness”
1980
This is a short case study of the Association for Promoting Social Awareness (APSA),
which was formed in 1979, to work in slum areas and among other underprivileged groups.
Their activities include community organising, inter-slum unity, casual labour organisation,
women’s income generating activities, etc. The organisation’s basic premise is that the
poor and marginalised in India have one major advantage on their side - their large numbers.
If they can only unite then no force can stop them. The case study outlines how they put this
premise into practice.
66
SOCIAL WORK
&
SOCIAL WELFARE
Books
REPORT OF THE NATIONAL SEMINAR ON SOCIAL ACTION WITH THE
POOR
NIPCCD, February 23 - 25,1982
NEW DELHI, INDIA, Pages 238
This report has highlighted certain aspects of poverty in India, and contains articles by
activists, economists, social scientists, and government officials. The report makes certain
recommendations and recognises that poverty in India is a mass phenomenon. Technologi
cal changes should be preceded by insi.iutional/structural changes. The participants at the
seminar felt that there is an urgent need for social action groups to come together periodically
on a common platform to share their field experiences and consider evolving a common plan of
action in order to counter the attitudes of the powerful groups and institutions operating at the
national level.
BOURDILLIAN, A.F.C.
VOLUNTARY SOCIAL SERVICES - THEIR PLACE IN THE MODERN STATE
METHUEN & CO. LTD., 1944
LONDON, UK
This book looks critically at social welfare associations in Britain. The author calls them the
third bureaucracy, and assesses the desirable future relations between these organisa
tions and the statutory bodies. Three main alternatives are posed in the book to improve such
relationships and the role of the welfare agencies are examined in detail. The author ob
serves that in a democratic political context, voluntary associations play a vital part.
69
CHOWDHARY, D. PAUL
STATUS OF VOLUNTARY EFFORT IN SOCIAL WELFARE
NIPCCD, 1982
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This study investigates the present status of voluntary efforts in the country in four states Assam, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. According to the author, voluntary action
has always been a prominently visible strain. As the state progressively assumed
larger welfare and developmental responsibilities, voluntary organisations had to face a
radically new situation which strategically influenced their functions, formations and orienta
tions. The present study was initiated by the Union Ministry of Social Welfare, and data gath
ered through various sources were supplemented by information culled out from a number of
documentary sources. The study concludes that voluntary action, despite temporary set
backs, has not displayed any definite trend towards decline on the whole. On the contrary, it has
developed new dimensions and ramifications which may not fit into the traditional stereotyped,
perceptual framework.
DASGUPTA, SUGATA;
EXTENDING HORIZONS
SOCIAL WORK AND SOCIAL CHANGE: A CASE STUDY IN INDIAN
VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT
PETER SERGENT PUBLISHERS, 1968
LONDON, U.K.
(SEE CASE STUDIES)
Journals
BHARUCHA, BEJAN H.
“Future of Voluntary Social Work in India”
INDIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK, Vol. XXI, No. 4,1961
TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, BOMBAY, INDIA
The author states that while the scope for social work has increased the fundamental
approach to it has also undergone a change. Voluntary organisations have always played a
pioneering role and rendered invaluable services. In this context, the writer attempts to
define social work and social workers. He looks at the relationship of social work organisations
with the government, both at the state level and at the national level, coordination between
such agencies, and the role which these agencies are playing at present and their potential
for the future.
70
DESAI, M.M.
“Voluntary Workers and Rehabilitation of Women”
THE INDIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK, Vol. XXI, No. 1, June, 1960
TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, BOMBAY, INDIA
The author has emphasised that sustained and effective results in social work can be achieved
only through a systematic study of social problems, careful planning and execution of
services, proper evaluation and assessment, both of the services as well as the method and
approach. In developing services for socially handicapped women, emphasis should be
placed on work with the woman, her husband and the family. An effective institutional care
programme can only be developed on the basis of a sharing of responsibilities between
voluntary workers and the paid staff, trained or untrained. Periodic evaluation of the
programmes developed, methods used and the quality of workers participation is very essen
tial.
HARTMAN, NELLIE M.
“The Role of International Voluntary Efforts for Meeting
Social Welfare Needs”
INDIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK, Vol. 22, No. 4, March, 1962
TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, BOMBAY, INDIA, pp. 439 - 443
In this article, the author is of the opinion that the future of the world rests on the shoulders of
voluntary social welfare efforts. The author examines the ways in which voluntary efforts
have met social welfare needs, and says that voluntary organisations and social welfare organ
isations need to work more closely because their combined voices can influence public
opinion, mold governmental programmes, and become an effective social conscience.
KULKARNI, P.D.
“Voluntary Action for Social Development”
INDIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK, Vol. XXXIX, No. 4, January, 1979
TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, BOMBAY, INDIA
The author has analysed the concept of voluntary organisations in terms of questions, like the
precise and correct meaning of the term voluntary, appropriate agencies which can or
ganise voluntary action for social development, the nature and extent of the role they can play
in bringing about social development as part of integrated rural development, factors which
condition success or failure of voluntary action in a working partnership with government
agencies and the future of voluntary action in the context of government policies.
71
MEHTA, B.H.
“Historical Background of Social Work in India”
THE INDIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK, Vol. 13, No. 1, June, 1952
TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL WORK, BOMBAY, INDIA
The writer points out that while earlier religion and philanthrophy influenced all social
work in India, the impact of western civilization and the introduction of industrial modes of
production have created the need for scientific training for social work today. He traces the
role that rulers in India played in promoting the interests of their subjects, and, how, as rural
communities developed, they evolved social institutions to deal with their social problems.
However, a vast field is yet to be covered, and the problems are many and extremely
difficult, including a lack of trained personnel and leadership, and also a lack of resources.
NICHOLSON, J.H.
“Voluntary Social Service Today”
INDIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK, Vol. 16, No. 2, September, 1955
BOMBAY, INDIA
According to the writer, voluntary social work has an important role to play even in a welfare
state because there are some services which by their very nature cannot be provided by the
State. Through voluntary effort, public attention becomes focused on a particular group and
it becomes possible to promote legislation and press for appropriate public provision. The
writer also feels that some of the spirit of voluntary work has infiltrated into the public serv
ices, and the outlook of voluntary social services has also changed, to the mutual
advantage of both. The writer states that due to changing social patterns, voluntary agen
cies have a vital role to play.
PUNALEKAR, P.S.
“Social Welfare Activity : State and Private Agencies”
SOCIAL WELFARE,
NEW DELHI, INDIA
The writer in this article traces some of the historical linkages between society and welfare, in the
Indian situation, which gave rise to social service activities, and the role of the State and
voluntary organisations. The author traces the growth of the voluntary movement, and also
the parallel increased involvement of the government, both pre and post Independence, in
development programmes. He also examines the problems which many voluntary agencies
face and recommends that suitable measures should be taken to strengthen the sector. He
concludes by posing a number of questions which have a crucial bearing on the efforts for
planned social change.
ROY, BUNKER
“Child Welfare : do Volags Have a Role ?”
EKLAVYA, 1985
INDIA
(SEE HISTORY/ ROLE/ OVERVIEW)
72
RANADE, S.N.
“Social Welfare Administration Through Private Agencies”
INDIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK, Vol. 26, No. 2,1965
TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, BOMBAY, INDIA
This paper has given an insight into the role of private agencies in the administration of welfare
programmes. It highlights the position as it exists in India and has suggested ways and means
through which it can be improved. According to the author, the important role of private welfare
agencies was recognised by the government, and provision was made in the First Five Year
Plan for the establishment of the Central Social Welfare Board, for the purpose of strengthening
such agencies. He stresses that it is important for private agencies not to be too dependent
on state assistance. They have a long way to go in improving their organisational structure and
administrative procedures.
Papers
DUNN, LOULA
“People, Politics and Public Welfare”
AMERICAN PUBLIC WELFARE ASSOCIATION, 1941
CHICAGO, USA
This article highlights the fact that people, politics and public welfare are interrelated and should
co-exist in harmony. Because people are the common denominator, this paper deals with
politics and professional integrity. According to the writer, it becomes inevitable that neither
can be ‘boxed up’ to the exclusion of the other, nor should either posses the other. The author
also points out certain drawbacks in the relationship between social workers and politicians in
America. This conflict began at the time when private social work predominated and when
public effort consisted primarily of correctional and other institutional care. In conclu
sion, the author is of the view that public welfare leaders and politicians must work together in
ascertaining and relieving the need of the people.
KAIKOBAD, N.F.
“The Role of the Professional Social Worker in
Community Organisation”
BOMBAY, INDIA
This paper is of the view that social work is a welfare activity based on humanitarian philoso
phy, scientific knowledge and technical skills for helping individuals, groups or the
community to live a rich and full life. Community organisation is one of the professional
processes in social work, and the author examines the role of the professional social worker
in this context. The author has advocated the formation of volunteer bureaus in large
cities, and incorporation of the professional social workers’ contribution at policy making
levels.
73
Books
CONRAD, WILLIAM R.; GLEN, WILLIAM E.
THE EFFECTIVE VOLUNTARY BOARD OF DIRECTORS - WHAT IT IS AND
HOW IT WORKS
SWALLOW PRESS, 1986
LONDON, UK, Pages 244
This book describes what Boards are and how they work. It also provides basic ground
rules for effective boards. The organisations represented range across the voluntary
spectrum; human services, health, hospitals, arts, and education. They represent every
possible structure, budget and complexity. This new edition has been changed on the basis of
experience gained through these contacts. Every chapter includes both new and revised
processes, procedures and manuals.
HACKMAN, RICHARD J.; OLDHAM, GREG R.
WORK REDESIGN
ADDISON-WESLEY, 198C
NEW YORK, USA
This book defines the emerging field of organisation development from the perspective of
connecting principles of planned change and OD to the mainstream of organisational theory,
psychology, and sociology. On the applied side, it is clear that information is a basic
nutrient for any kind of valid change process. Hence, a book on data gathering, surveys, and
feedback methods is very timely. The book is eclectic in its approach, reflecting the fact
that there are many ways to gather information, many kinds of information to be gathered
and many approaches to the feedback process to reflect the particular goals of change. It
highlights that one of the most significant ways to develop organisationally is to redesign work
itself and to find ways of making work meaningful and challenging. Hackman and Oldham have
spent a decade developing ways of analysing work situations and developing diagnostic tools
and guidelines for work redesign, which are presented in concise form in this book.
77
KALE, PRATIMA; COOMBS, PHILIP H.
PROJECT TO HELP PRACTITIONERS HELP THE RURAL POOR
THE SOCIAL WORK AND RESEARCH CENTRE: AN INTEGRATED TEAM
APPROACH IN INDIA
INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL FOR EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, No. 3,
USA
(SEE CASE STUDIES)
POWELL, WALTER W.; FRIEDKIN, REBECCA
ORGANISATIONAL CHANGE IN NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS :
A RESEARCH HANDBOOK
YALE UNIVERSITY, 1987
NEW HAVEN, USA, Pages 192
The authors examine the issue of organisational change in the non-profit sector and provide
a better understanding of both the internal processes that lead to change and the external
factors that contribute to organisational transformation. The cases of organisational change
studied by the authors suggest several important lessons with considerable contemporary
relevance. The cases also examine the environment within which such organisations work.
SANKARAN, R.; RODRIGUES, IVO
A HANDBOOK FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS
ALPHA PUBLISHERS,
MADRAS, INDIA, Pages 384
This book will help voluntary organisations to work within the framework of laws, and the
accepted norms and procedures of organisational management. Laws and regulations have
been passed over the years to regulate the management of voluntary organisations.
However information and services related to legal and technical matters necessary for manag
ing their affairs have not been adequately developed. This book explains in detail the statu
tory requirements. It covers crucial areas of administrative and managerial discipline,
essential for the smooth and efficient running of the organisation. This comprehensive
book is invaluable for all those running voluntary organisations and those planning to set up
organisations to promote developmental activities.
78
UPHOFF, NORMAN
LOCAL INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: AN ANALYTICAL SOURCE BOOK
WITH CASES
KUMARIAN PRESS,
CONNECTICUT, USA
The volume consolidates the efforts of a working group on Local Institutional Development
sponsored by the Rural Development Committee at the Center for International Studies at
Cornell University. According to the author, in recent years international donor agencies
have come to recognise how crucial institutional development is for overall development suc
cess. The majority of the investments in institutional development made this far, however,
have been focused at the national level, and not at the field level. This analytical consideration
of local institutional development undertakes to provide a systematic treatment of the
subject, and it seeks to balance analytical and action-oriented concerns in a way that
academics and practitioners can both become more engaged in local institutional
development work and can contribute to each other’s success.
VAN UFFORD, PHILIP CHARLES; KUIJI, DIRK; DOWNING, THEODORE
THE HIDDEN CRISIS IN DEVELOPMENT : DEVELOPMENT BUREAUCRACIES
FREE UNIVERSITY PRESS,
AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND
This book points to the fact that development organisations are part and parcel of development
problems. They are instruments to combat the plights of hunger, disease, malnutrition, eco
nomic exploitation and marginalisation , but they compound these with problems of their own.
This book shows that the role of development bureaucracies can be assessed properly only
when we have come to understand ambiguities in the relations encountered, from the highest
levels down to the local scene. The book looks at ways in which political intentions and the
effects of policy are related. The authors feel that organisational problems arising “in between”
have been badly under researched in development studies. They conclude that the or
ganisational process cannot be regarded as just a reproduction of the power configuration and
basic contradictions in society.
YOUNG, DENNIS R.
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP IN NON-PROFIT ORGANISATIONS :
A RESEARCH HANDBOOK
YORK UNIVERSITY, 1987
UK, Pages 167
This paper presents a comparison of executive functions in non-profit organisations and
government or business organisations. It is clear from the literature that non-profit executives
are considerable and substantially different in many ways from those facing executives in
business or government. Risk taking is well recognised in the non-profit area. But unlike in the
commercia.1 venture, the non-profit entrepreneur cannot rest on a successful marketing strat
egy. He resembles the government chief dealing with higher levels of administration. Accord
ing to the author, the non-profit executive must be a politician within his own agency.
79
«
Journals
GOODSTEIN, LEONARD D.(ED)
“The Journal of Applied Behavioural Science”
Vol. 10, November 03,1974
NTL INSTITUTE, USA
The mission of the journal is to help create a science and technology of social change by
providing an open and continuing dialogue among all participants in such change. The special
issue focuses on the various forms and formats of social power and the various meanings and
means of planned social change. The authors of this issue are quite diverse in the roles they
usually play in social change processes. Some are strategic thinkers, engaged primarily
in helping partisans or managers think through and imagine alternative ways of exercising
power in the pursuit of favoured ends. Still others are consultants, working as professional
or peer advisers to groups championing social change. And some are frontline workers, by
choice or design, operating at the margin, directly engaged in manipulating power to change
individual and social systems. Several articles in this issue are broadly diagnostic or analytic
in attending to specific aspects of society or to major institutional arena. Several other
papers compare change strategies and tactics, and some describe specific change programmes.
SWAMINATHAN, MINA
“Mobile Creches : Organisational Relationships”
EKLAVYA, 1985
INDIA
(SEE CASE STUDIES)
SMITH, DAVID HORTON
“The Diversity of Transnational Associations and NGOs :
Variations According to Structural - Functional Types”
TRANSNATIONAL ASSOCIATION, 1979
pp. 245 - 249
This paper has highlighted a number of diversities among transnational associations which
are often overlooked. The author believes that to really understand how NGOs operate, struc
tural-functional diversities must be understood. The author believes that failure to grasp this
fact causes leaders of NGOs as well as Inter-Governmental Organisations and government or
corporate leaders to fail in their attempts to deal with NGOs. The author has dealt with the
basic demographic aspects of NGOs which are diverse in size, growth rate, age, intended
life span, periodicity of activity, intensity of activity, and focus of territorial activity. He has
also dealt with the membership aspect of NGOs, and focused attention on power and lead
ership issues. The paper also highlights the relationship of NGOs with the external social
environment.
80
WADHERA, KIRON
“The Professional and the Volunteer”
EKLAVYA, 1985
INDIA
The article focuses on the significance of professionals and that of volunteers. The writer opines
that paid professionals as well as volunteers are equally important to any voluntary
organisation. Yet, every worker, a volunteer or professional, she emphasises, requires an
on-going and up-dated training related to specific roles and responsibilities in the
organisation. This training can be oriented towards personal development, or improvement of
skills or attitudes or knowledge. This is necessary to ensure that people can perform and meet
the objectives of the organisations for which they work. Training is the key that can enable
both professionals and volunteers to fulfill their roles and responsibilities and achieve
organisational effectiveness.
Papers
BROWN, L. DAVID; COVEY, JANE G.
“Organisational Development in Social Change Organisations:
Some Implications for Practice”
INSTITUTE FOR DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH,
BOSTON, USA
The authors have analysed the implications of organisational development (OD) programmes
in social change organisations. They have viewed that OD in social change organisations
requires special attention focused on their particular characteristics and dynamics. They have
found several innovations useful; making ecological diagnosis, managing multiple conflicting
clients, and assisting ideological negotiation for strategic planning. They believe that the
paradigm needs modification and expansion to be relevant to social change organisations and
to exploit the field’s potentials for large scale use. It is clear from their views that they have
given more importance to paradigm. According to them social change organisations may
differ from government, business and service agencies more in degree than in kind. Social
change organisations potentially have wide applicability for OD, both as currently
practised in organisations and as it might be practiced in the service of world-wide social
change and development
81
SUBRAMANIAN, ASHOK
“Indian NGOs and Management”
This article has traced the evolutionary role of NGOs in India. It presents some issues for an
analysis of the management of NGOs, in the context of social development. The attributes
of NGOs are discussed in detail, and the management of NGOs is outlined in terms of
analysing and responding to the institutional environment, identifying needs, goals
and services, and finding and utilising resources.
TANDON, RAJESH
“Management of Voluntary Organisations : Some Issues”
PRIA, 1987
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This paper is based on the issues raised during two workshops on the Management of Voluntary
Organisations. The author observes that the task of managing NGOs has become increas
ingly complex because of the lack of systematic guidance and codification of the planning,
organising and management of such organisations. The author looks at some of the issues
faced in the management of voluntary organisations, such as organisational purpose and
mission, articulation of a philosophy, organisational culture, environment,etc.
VAN GENT, VIRGIL; STERNFELD, JOB
“Management and Organisation Aspects of Service-rendering
Organisations in Third World Countries: A Case Study on SWRC”
RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOR MANAGEMENT SCIENCES, September, 1981
DELFT, NETHERLANDS, Pages 89
This case study is a part of a research study done by the authors for their M.Sc. course. The
report contains a summary of the history of the Social Work Research Centre of Tilonia,
Rajasthan, followed by a description of how the development philosophy of the organisation
evolved over the years and the activities it is involved in. Within this context, the authors then
analyse the management practices in the organisation, from the early years to the present,
outlining in detail the various dimensions of management which are being faced by the
organisation at the time of writing the report.
84
Workshops/Meetings/Conferences
FOUNDATION TO AID INDUSTRIAL RECOVERY (FAIR)
“Report of a Workshop on Management Concepts for Voluntary
Organisations”
March, 1987
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This is the report of a workshop held to discuss certain basic issues of management such as
strategy, administrative and financial planning, motivation and team building, etc. The report
begins with a true case study, and then moves on to various organisational issues. It also
deals with evaluation methodology, specially with reference to social interventions, describing
various methods, etc.
85
NGOs AND
STATE
Books
JAIN, L.C.; KRISHNAMURTHY, B.V.; TRIPATHI, P.M.
GRASS WITHOUT ROOTS : RURAL DEVELOPMENT
UNDER GOVERNMENT AUSPICES
SAGE PUBLICATIONS, 1985
NEW DELHI, INDIA, Pages 240
This book is the first comprehensive and critical review of the various rural development
schemes initiated by the government of India since Independence. It traces successive policy
shifts, organisational changes and programme innovations, and also considers the impact of
all this activity at the grassroots level through field studies conducted in selected rural develop
ment blocks in the country. The authors conclude from their detailed field observations that
there is a complete mismatch between ideas and the institutions created to translate the
former into practice. In the circumstances, the only solution is democratic decentralisation. The
people, say the authors, must be involved both in the design and the actual operation of rural
development schemes. An important and timely book with major policy implementations
which is essential reading for anyone interested or involved in the development process.
LEGER, RONALD
AGENTS OF CHANGE IN INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION: CHALLENGES
TO NEW PARTNERSHIPS BETWEEN FUNDERS AND NCOS
OTTAWA, CANADA
According to the author, to be effective as agents of change it is not the size of organisation, nor
the budget that matters. It is the definition of a clear purpose and the planning of long-term
strategies that take into account the relevant areas of action. It also involves foresight, moti
vating special talents, networking with other like-minded institutions, and searching for ways to
attract the unconverted. According to the author, partnerships between governments and
private voluntary organisations become truly meaningful when used to test and promote,
new unconventional and creative solutions for change, which is the real trademark of volun
tary organisations. The government’s role is to support and sometimes orient the dynamism and
new flow of ideas that these organisations can provide, and apply them widely to important
issues of our time. This is also how developing nations will increasingly be able to tackle
development challenges of their own, with their own voluntary organisations.
89
YOUNG INDIA PROJECT TEAM (ED.)
TRYST WITH DESTINY
PENUKONDA, INDIA
This book contains critical essays on government development policies and anti-poverty
programmes written by economists, government officials, activists, and others involved in
rural development work, from 1947 to date. These essays reflect an honest search for
effective policies and programmes which could have a significant impact on the rural masses.
The evaluation and criticism of past programmes and policies lead the writers to conclude that
as the majority of the rural poor are agricultural labourers, the most effective attack on their
poverty by the government would be to create mass rural employment through government
programmes. Quite a few of the essays also recommend that such employment for the rural
poor should be guaranteed as a fundamental right through legislation. It is the intention of the
writers to initiate public debate on the subject and also to influence the government’s future
development policies.
Newspaper Clippings
ALI BAIG, TARA
“Pay Commission and Voluntary Bodies”
THE TIMES OF INDIA, July 22,1986
NEW DELHI, INDIA
The article probes the logic of inducting voluntary agencies into the government mainstream to
do studies and programmes. But the Pay Commission’s recommendations raises questions
about the cost-benefit of having this ‘workforce’, because this would mean that the voluntary
sector would find it very difficult to attract trained staff because it would not be able to pay
comparable wages. This can only be prevented if the government gives additional financial
relief to the voluntary agencies. Also, the article observes that, if the government stresses the
need for involving the voluntary sector in rural development and other welfare activities, then
it is a clear indication of the fact that bureaucracy has not had much success in these areas.
This also means that if the government is not forthcoming with help, those who work for others
outside the bureaucratic structures of the government have to find their own resources.
ALI BAIG, TARA
“Industrial Dispute Act - Buraen on Voluntary Bodies”
HINDUSTAN TIMES, March 06,1986
NEW DELHI, INDIA
In this article the author has analysed the problem of the Industrial Disputes Act, and how it
has damaged the activities of NGOs. According to her, voluntary organisations could not avail of
any priorities although they come under the Industrial Act which is applicable to all voluntary
organisations. The government should back the voluntary sector because they have limited
funds and are playing a vital role in the development of the country. The government should
therefore consider their basic needs seriously.
90
MALGAOKAR, P.D.; KOTHARI, RAJNI
“The Cooption Game”
THE HINDUSTAN TIMES, November 30,1986
NEW DELHI, INDIA
The article discusses the success and the failures of NGOs and views that the incapacity of
the government and that of the opposition to find a credible alternative has given rise to nonparty voluntary groups. The writer analyse the leadership issues facing the sector today, and
look at the reason why young people are getting disillusioned with the voluntary sector. Accord
ing to the writer, the need of the hour is for all voluntary organisations to come together
on a common platform and fight against cooption. They says that there are some major chal
lenges facing the sector and it is only when these challenges are surmounted will new
spaces open up within a civil society.
Journals
BAXI, UPENDRA
“For Bunker Roy : a Word of Advice”
MAINSTREAM, April 06,1985
DELHI, INDIA
This is a rejoinder to an article of Bunker Roy’s on the role of NGOs, addressed to the Prime
Minister. The writer analyses the advice given by Bunker Roy and says that one cannot avoid
or ignore the role of government experts and cannot depend entirely on the non-government
experts, as Bunker Roy advocates. Non-governmental experts are a part of a new class, and
some of them are endeavouring to declass themselves. The moment of parting is reached
when governmental experts are perceived as agents of internal colonialism and the instru
ments of indirect rule. This, according to the writer, is the basic issue.
DEY, S.K.
“Testing Voluntary Agencies - The Counter Challenge”
YOJANA, January 01 -15,1985
PLANNING COMMISSION, GOVT. OF INDIA,
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 1 -15
In this article the author makes out a strong case for a very distinctive role for voluntary
agencies in India. He looks at the history of India, and the role that Gandhi played as the
propounder of voluntary action. After Gandhi, Nehru carried on the tradition and incorporated
possibilities for voluntary action in government development programmes. The author then
analyses the nature as well as the role of voluntary agencies in creating what he calls a “Forum
for Freedom” - a people’s movement to counteract hypocrisy and build up a life style which
is in perfect harmony with the quintessence of Indian philosophy.
91
KOTHARI, RAJNI
“The Non-party Political Process : NGOs, the State and
World Capitalism”
ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL WEEKLY, Vol. XXI, No. 50, December, 1984
BOMBAY, INDIA
Explaining the context of this article, the writer says that the role of the State in social transfor
mation in India has been undermined. So-called ‘development’ has led to a striking dualism of
the social order, and democracy has lost its character, giving impetus to corruption, criminalisation, repression and intimidation to large masses of people whose very survival de
pends upon their staying out of the political process. Their desperate economic status retards
them from entering the economic process as well. In this background, the writer discusses the
phenomenon of non-party political formations, the problems of participation in a changing
context, growing paradoxes, and emerging possibilities and thresh holds of both theoretical
concern and practical action. The writer’s analysis is based by and large on the Indian experi
ence, but is widely applicable and presented in general terms.
MENON, N.R. MADHAVA
“Legal Aid to Poor and Voluntary Organisations in India
INDIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION,
Vol. 33, No. 3, July, 1987
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION,
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 634 - 642
This paper deals with the role of voluntary organisations in legal aid. The author has pointed
out three types of voluntary bodies involved in legal aid work. According to the author,
voluntary organisations can function as effective liaison agencies between legal aid organ
isations and people in need of help. Also voluntary agencies composed of academics from
institutions like colleges and universities can monitor implementation of welfare laws,
survey legal problems of the poor and suggest reforms essential for delivery of social
justice.
PINNEY, ANDREW
“Partners in Development? The Government and NGOs in Indonesia”
PRISMA,
JAKARTA, INDONESIA
Non-government development organisations have shown themselves to be innovative, respon
sive to local conditions and skilled in stimulating popular participation. This article analyses
some of the structural shortcomings of the Indonesian government’s approach to develop
ment and assesses the efforts made by non-government organisations. The author says that in
recent years the Indonesian government has become more aware of the role and potentials of
NGOs and this could be a good sign. The author then goes on to compare the different ways of
functioning of both the NGO sector and the government structure, highlighting the flexibility
and commitment of the former as compared to the latter. The article concludes with a
consideration of the possibilities and the pitfalls of NGO-government collaboration.
92
ROY, BUNKER
“For the Prime Minister - A Word of Advice”
MAINSTREAM, 1985
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This is a letter to the Prime Minister of India, advising him on the role of NGOs and that of the
government in the field of rural development. The writer suggests that the government ought to
be more responsive to the needs of the rural poor. He suggests that the Prime Minister should
consult groups working in the field, and that it is they who should be involved in the actual
planning, and not only policy makers. He gives a list of a few NGOs who are working in the
country and suggests that government must learn from their methods, approaches and experi
ments. NGOs, the writer explains, can show how, within the existing system, it is possible to
reach the poor simply, inexpensively and effectively. Finally, ways in which the government
can help the NGOs are also outlined.
RAO, VENKAT P.
“Role of Voluntary Agencies in IRDP”
KURUKSHETRA, Vol. 35, No. 12, September, 1987
PUBLICATIONS DIVISION, GOVT. OF INDIA,
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 11 -13
The writer analyses the objectives and the role of voluntary organisations in the implementa
tion of the Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP). He points out that each of the
voluntary organisations involved in IRDP has a programme methodology, and an ideo
logical basis for organising the programmes. In order to implement the IRDP successfully,
he suggests, more voluntary organisations should be involved in it. Stressing the role of volun
tary organisations and that of the state, the writer says that there is a need proper for har
mony and coordination between the two in rural areas. Voluntary organisations are not too
many in number and are scattered over a wide area. Many of them are small and have
budgets barely sufficient to manage their programmes. But, despite their limitations, they
are the only representatives of a democratic, social order and play a crucial role in rural transfor
mation.
SHIVAKUMAR, M.S.
“Voluntary Agencies and Planned Development”
MAINSTREAM, June 22,1985
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This article is part of a series on the role of NGOs, initiated by Bunker Roy. The writer criticises
the approach of Bunker Roy to change in society with the help of professional voluntary
agencies. The writer is against planned development which often suicidal. The claim of this
handful of NGOs is repeated by the logic of capturing State power as a prerequisite for
social transformation neglecting wider issues. Unfortunately, these articulate NGOs who seek
a role in the development process of the government are run mostly as showpieces involving
economic benefits for the people, which are tangible. The writer feels that rural communities
in India are heterogeneous and in such circumstances any meaningful approach that will not
benefit the rich at the expense of the poor must be a political approach. The writer sums up by
saying that there is need for continuous participatory action research with new methodological
approaches to probe new frontiers of knowledge. The complexity and magnitude of the develop
ment task implies that there may even be the need to formulate a new science of knowledge
before the NGOs plunge into action.
93
SAINT, KISHORE
“The State, Voluntary Bodies and People’s Institutions in
Rural Development”
VOLUNTARY ACTION, Vol. 21, No. 3, March 21, 1979
CAPART, NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 22 - 26
The author has analysed the relationship between the State, voluntary bodies and people’s
institutions in rural development. He has also traced the historical development of this
relationship, and looked at the role of the State, voluntary bodies and people’s institutions in
this context. He is of the opinion that non-political voluntary organisations have contrib
uted indirectly to generating, strengthening, awakening and organising people through adult
education, health programmes, and relief and welfare activities.
UMALI, D.L
“An Agenda for Future Tasks for NGOs Towards International
Development Cooperation”
LOKNITI, Vol. 5, No. 4,1988
ANGOC, MANILA, PHILIPPINES, pp. 3 - 8
This paper suggests that the responsibility for development lies not only with the State or the
government but also with other actors in the development process, namely, funders, NGOs,
and the people themselves. And amongst these other actors, the most important role is that
of the NGOs. According to the author, the significance of the NGO sector is crucial,and there
fore, the task ahead for them is very big. The author then outlines ways in which NGOs can
facilitate the agenda for development, both with the government and with donors. At the end, the
author advocates cooperation between governments, NGOs and donors.
Papers
EXTRACT FROM SEVENTH FIVE YEAR PLAN:1985-1990
“The Seventh Five Year Plan and Voluntary Agencies”
PLANNING COMMISSION, GOVT. OF INDIA, Vol. II, 1985
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 68 - 70
This paper is an extract from the Seventh Five Year Plan dealing with the involvement of
voluntary agencies in the planning and implementation of rural development programmes. In the
first part of the extract, the role of voluntary agencies has been defined clearly as non-profit
organizations with the objective of supplementing the government’s development program
med. The paper describes that the emphasis in the Seventh Plan will be to professionalise
voluntarism by introducing professional competence and managerial expertise in keeping
with th6 resources and capabilities of voluntary organisations so that they are in a position to
meet the requirements of the government in terms of accountability.
94
GUJARAT RAJYA GRAM VIKAS SANGH
“Memorandum to the Union Finance Minister, Government of India”
AHMEDABAD, INDIA, Pages 11
This is a memorandum jointly submitted by the Gujarat Rajya Gram Vikas Sangh, which is a
federation of about a hundred and fifty active voluntary agencies working in the state of Gujarat,
to the Union Finance Minister. The memorandum draws attention to the possible ill-effects and
resultant damage that the withdrawal of the benefits under Sections 35 CC and 35 CCA of the
Income Tax Act, 1961, as proposed in the Finance Bill of 1983, will cause to rural development
efforts in the country. The memorandum requests the Minister to reconsider the issue and to
make necessary changes to ensure continuity of the exemptions granted previously.
KOTHARI, RAJNI
“Capitalism and the Role of the State”
NEW DELHI, INDIA
in this paper the author has examined the relationship between capitalism and the State with
reference to the complex of empirical and historical forces that have been at work, rather
than with reference to any preconceived theory about the State being a prisoner of the ruling
class or by defining the ruling class in conceptual terms (big business, industrial capital in
league with upper peasantry and so forth). According to the author it is only by doing so that
we can get a full measure of the manner in which both the State and the political processes
have come under the dominion of world capitalism and how, in turn, this has consolidated
authoritarian and centralising tendencies which are not limited to the national level but are, in
the final analysis, global in scope.
PAI PANANDIKER, V.A.
“Strategies for Increased Involvement of NGOs, Local Government
and Institute for Promoting Greater Communication and Participation in Family
Planning”
CENTRE FOR POLICY RESEARCH, July, 1983
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This paper deals with the political issues of decentralisation, administrative strategy, and
organising beneficiaries, and the role of policy makers and researchers. The author discusses
the limitations of the bureaucracy in implementing the family planning programme. He says
that the most important factor to be reckoned with is the involvement of the people at the local
and community level, and this can only be achieved by NGOs and local institutions. He then
looks at ways in which this is possible, listing the modalities and parameters of such involve
ment and collaborations.
95
QUIZON, TONY
“Widening the NGO Perspective : A New Climate and a Broader
Role for Philippine NGOs”
ANGOC, MANILA, PHILIPPINES
This article has critically analysed the role of Philippine NGOs. The author feels that in the past,
most of the NGOs chose to ignore working with government because of its repressive, topdown character. But this no longer holds true today. The opportunities open to NGOs now
demand closer NGO-government collaboration which, if not carried out, would mean denying
one of the fundamental roles of NGOs. But the author points out that working with government,
however, should not mean cooperation of one by the other, for NGOs have a unique role and
mission to play. NGOs should cooperate among themselves, and respect each other’s auton
omy, for the smallness, flexibility, multiplicity and self directedness of each NGO are in the end
their source of inner strength. Any attempt to co-opt NGO efforts will spell the loss of their
creativity and dynamism.
SHAH, KIRTEE
“Voluntary Agencies, the State and the Society”
NEHRU FOUNDATION FOR DEVELOPMENT, September 08,1986
AHMEDABAD, INDIA
This article deals with the relationship that now exists between voluntary organisations and the
government, and the impediments that exist in the smooth functioning of any non-governmen
tal organisation. Of late, the government, in many ways, has been trying to undermine the
work of NGOs by establishing a Code of Conduct and the Council. In this context, the article
examines the role of voluntary agencies, the diversity in the sector, and the government’s
perceptions of NGOs, which, according to the author, are contradictory and conflicting. In
conclusion, the article says that the twin goals of economic development with social change
and equity makes it imperative that the government, which has the power and resources, should
collaborate with NGOs, who have the values and the commitment.
SEETHARAM, MUKKAVILLII
“Poverty Alleviation and State of State-NGO Relations :
Some Issues”
There have been different perceptions of the need, function and role of voluntary agencies in
poverty alleviation at different stages as reflected in the Five Year Plan documents. The Sev
enth Plan (1985-90) identified specific areas wherein NGO’s could be involved. The author
quotes such examples, and examines the Seventh Plan in that perspective. Ministries "aditionally seek the support of NGOs in the implementation of many programmes and appear to
evince confidence in the abilities of NGOs. Moreover the nature and extent to which
development tasks are subcontracted to NGOs vary from programme to programme. He points
out that the issue of coordination needs to be viewed in the context of the creation of interme
diary
96
Workshops/ Meetings/ Conferences
AMRIT, KAUR
“The Concept of Social Service - its Relation to World Needs
and Problems, With Special Re erence to Asia and Africa”
1961
ROME, ITALY
The author has analysed the role of social service and its relation to world needs and prob
lems. Analysing problems faced by other countries, particularly in Asia and Africa, the author
mentions the importance of social service in helping the poor. The author feels dissatisfied
with the present day social services run by governments, which do not receive the attention
or material help that is their due. According to the author, this problem is not only found in India
but is common to other countries also. The author indicates that conferences could help to
rouse public opinion so that enough pressure is brought to bear on governments to place their
social services on an equal footing with all other plans for development.
CENTRAL SOCIAL WELFARE BOARD
“Proceedings of the Conference of Chairmen of all India
Voluntary Organisations”
May 22-28,1965
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This is a report of a Conference conducted to help establish a healthy relationship between
the Central Social Welfare Board (CSWB), both at the national and state level, and volun
tary organisations. The main issues covered by the Conference were the role which NGOs
could play in cooperation with the CSWB, the problems faced by them in implementing pro
grammes of the CSWB, and the formulation of plans for the implementation of the social welfare
programmes outlined in the Fourth Five Year Plan. The main objective of this conference was
to formulate a plan of action whereby voluntary agencies can be effectively helped in the
quantitative and qualitative development of their programmes. The report recommends new
strategies and more appropriate ways for positive action on the part of voluntary agencies
on development issues, including lobbying and advocacy.
ELDRIDGE, PHILIP
“The Political Role of Non-government Organisations and
‘Micro Movements’ in India”
CENTRE FOR SOCIAL STUDIES, 1983
SURAT, INDIA
This paper, presented in a seminar, is based on the premise that politics is a necessary and
legitimate process in any society and it cannot be separated from everyday life. Hence, the
writer says, NGOs should participate in political process with a clear conscience. He makes
an attempt to show how such political participation can be achieved in relation to their
more fundamental goals, and how NGOs could find some alternative political structures
with direct popular involvement and participation. He also suggests an approach of seeking to
capture power within the present structure.
97
VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT
“Amendments to the Finance Bill Vis-a-vis
Rural Development”
February 28,1983
BANGALORE, INDIA
This is a background paper in which the proposed amendments to the Rural Bill are outlined
and examined critically. The paper states that the amendments have implications for the nature
and extent of voluntary activity in India. It will politicise the involvement of the corporate
sector in rural development and related the efforts of voluntary agencies to become self reliant.
An attempt has been made to analyse all related aspects and implications for the future of
voluntary agencies.
98
NGOs AND
FUNDING
Books
KAPOOR, K.K.
DIRECTORY OF FUNDING ORGANISATIONS - FOREIGN AND INDIAN
INFORMATION AND NEWS NETWORK,
NEW DELHI, INDIA, Pages 16
This directory has basic information about funding organisations, resource agencies, training
programmes, etc., which would be useful in planning, implementation and co-ordination of
programmes of constructive work for social change, for functionaries of voluntary agencies
in the field. The entries of funding and resource organisations have been classified under the
following heads: foreign funding organisations; agencies with counterparts or representative offices
in India; list of Indian funding organisations (NGOs/autonomous organisations and central
government funding sources); and, international agencies. It also has a list of organisations which
provide training and publications on voluntary work.
KARAT, PRAKASH
FOREIGN FUNDING AND THE PHILOSOPHY OF VOLUNTARY
ORGANISATIONS
NATIONAL BOOK CENTRE, 1988
NEW DELHI, INDIA, Pages 88
This bgoklet looks into the dynamism and mechanism of the working of voluntary agencies in India.
It explains the the proliferation of various voluntary agencies and action groups working in rural
and urban areas of our country among the landless, tribals, women, slum dwellers and
uno rganised labourers. The author deals with the whole concept behind funding and probes
deeper into what motivates these diverse groups working in different sectors, and the implications
of this work for the working class movement and in the context of foreign funds coming into the
country for voluntary agencies.
O <21 y OS
COMMUNITY HEALTH CE14
101 ^e/o-ioo
32b, V Main, I Sluck
Koranungnla
Bangalore-560034
India
Journals
MELLINGER, STEVE; MELLINGER, DEUG
“Mainstreaming Major Donor Support for Third World NGOs”
LOKNITI, Vol. 4, No. 1, January, 1987
ANGOC, MANILA, PHILIPPINES
The authors observe that aid programmes through third world government agencies and the
private sector have shown the limitations of their effectiveness in assisting the poor. Some donors
have begun to take an active interest in non-governmental organisations (NGOs) as vehicles
for the pursuit of their objectives. The article highlights problems in funding, and lays some
guidelines for incorporating third world NGOs in major
development programmes. The
fundamental principle is that donors should respond to, promote and build upon the interests
and strengths of NGOs. The latter are generally the most effective agents of constructive change,
incorporating the participation of the poor in determining which development avenues they they
will take.
RAJ, FRANCIS
“Financial Explanation of Development Work”
DEEDS DIALOGUE, 1982
BANGALORE, INDIA
The writer has highlighted some points related to financial implications of development work.
He has identified some problems NGO workers face and has made certain suggestions regarding
the management of financial resources, to eliminate mismanagement and misappropriation of
funds allotted for developmental work. Finally the author stresses that the public who contribute
to the funds should make time to look after resources.
UMALI, D.L
“An Agenda for Future Tasks for NGOs Towards International
Development Cooperation”
LOKNITI, Vol. 5, No. 4, 1988
ANGOC, MANILA, PHILIPPINES, pp. 3 - 8
This paper is of the view that the responsibility for development lies not only with the state or the
government but also with the other actors in the development process, namely, funders, NGOs,
and the people themselves. And amongst these other actors, the most important role is that of the
NGOs. According to the author, the significance of the NGO sector is crucial,and therefore, the task
ahead for them is very big. The author then outlines ways in which NGOs can facilitate the agenda
for development, both with the government and with donors. At the end, the author advocates
trilateral cooperation between governments, NGOs and donors.
102
Workshops/Meetings/Conferences
ASIA CULTURAL FORUM ON DEVELOPMENT
“Independence or Self Reliance? What are the Alternatives to
Grants for Asian NGOs”
February 16-19,1987
BANGKOK, THAILAND
This paper deals with the financial concerns of NGOs in Asian countries. It indicates that most NGOs
operating in Asia today exist through the useof grants from organisations in rich countries. The
paper has identified some broad categories from which these organisation usually get money.
NGOs try not to be wholly dependent on their funders, since this gives them little flexibility and
bargaining power. In the author’s opinion a partnership could exist between donor and recipient
NGOs, particularly between small ones, and where both are vulnerable, both need each others help.
He has also given some alternatives in fund raising.
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE
“Voluntary Aid for Development - The Role of Non-governmental
Organisations”
ORGANISATION FOR ECONOMIC COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT, 1987
PARIS, FRANCE, Pages 133
This is a report of the discussions held in the Development Assistance Committee of the OECD
on the role of NGOs. It is an exhaustive report which covers issues ranging from a definition of
NGOs, to their historic development, cooperation with aid organisations, and changing orientations
amongst NGOs. It also looks at some examples of local NGOs in Africa and Asia. The last part
of the report is a review of recent evaluations and research on NGOs, and a detailed analysis of
the present and future roles of NGOs in Development Education.
RYDSTROM (ED), GUNNAR
“Adult Education, Development and International Aid : Some
Issues and Trends”
THE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL FOR ADULT EDUCATION, 1987
TORONTO, CANADA, Pages 96
This is a report of an international seminar held in Sweden, on the Role of International Aid in Adult
Education, organised by the International Council for Adult Education. The seminar soughtto enable
decision makers in industrialised and developing countries to make tangible improvements in
the substance and method of international cooperation in adult education. The issues covered
include the role that adult education and NGOscan play in the development process, the need
for closer collaboration and mutual support amongst all development actors, and the degree to
which funding agencies realise that economic growth oftheGNP kind are insufficient to meet crucial
issues such as the alleviation of mass poverty and improvement in the quality of life. The report
is based on papers presented, reports from discussion groups, interviews recorded individually
between sessions, and contributions made formally or informally.
103
Papers
HARTFIELD, ANN
“In Support of Women : Ten Years of Funding by Inter American Foundation”
INTER AMERICAN FOUNDATION, September, 1982
USA
IAF has been paying increasing attention to women’s development from
1972 to 1982. The
Foundation funds projects that educate, raise levels of awareness and help women to make
choices more creatively. It helps to build their confidence and teach them diverse skills. Priority
is given to direct assistance to social and economic programmes. The foundation encourages
greater understanding of the poor women in Latin America and the Caribbean through research
and dissemination of information.
IAN, SMILLIE
“Northern donors’ and Southern partners’:
arguments for an ngo Consortium Approach”
This paper, written for the Commonwealth Secretariat Round table discussions on Strategic Issues
in Development Management, examines some of the funding problems faced by southern NGOs
and makes a few suggestions. It states that most projects serve the interests of donors, and not
the real purpose of benefiting society. According to this paper, the objective of most charitable
donors in third world countries is welfare rather than development activities. Southern NGOs differ
from Northern NGOs as the former do not develop a local resource base without considerable
support. Another problem is that of cash flow. Those essential parts of the operation with low donor
appeal can be funded equally by all partners. Most donors are biased and rigid in their approach.
The paper stresses that donors should have a commitment to communication and to an
understanding of the NGOs approach, in order to facilitate their work.
INSTITUTE FOR AFRICAN ALTERNATIVES
“The Impact of the IMF and World Bank Policies on the People of Africa”
September 07 -11,1987
LONDON, UK
Among the themes and topics dealt with at this Conference were the objectives and growth of
the Bretton Woods International Monetary System which gave birth to the IMF and World Bank at
Bretton Woods, USA in 1944. The IMF and Bank programmes in Africa and their effect on
individual African countries are discussed with respect to different sectors of the economy, and
to social groups. The impact of these policies on Africa as a whole and on the world economy are
also examined. Suggestions of alternative policies, programmes and
solutions for Africa’s
economic recovery and for the reform of the Fund and Bank are then discussed extensively. The
rest of this report is a summary of the main findings and conclusions of the conference.
106
*
INTERNATIONAL
PERSPECTIVES
PHILANTHROPY
Papers
“National NGO Coordinating Bodies in Third World Countries”
1987
Pages 2
This paper deals with the way national NGO bodies in the third world are coordinating activities of
NGOs and strengthening their capabilities. The study reveals that their performance in relation
to viability and effectiveness is ambiguous. Coordinating bodies came into existence without
a consensus and work to fashion agreements among NGOs with differing expectations. The
paper deals with the question of how to balance this role and draws differences between international
NGOs and indigenous NGOs in their size and nature of progress, access to funding, and relationship
with host government; it brings out the relationships between coordinating bodies and sector
specific bodies limited to NGOs involved with similar type of programmes. The study has grouped
the functions of these bodies and provides an insight into the development functions and
performance of these bodies in some regions like Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean.
PADRON, MARIO
“Third World Ngos Task Force: Origins, Aims, Evolution and Present Situation”
This article deals with the relationship between NGOs in Latin America, Asia and Africa. It presents
the origins, aims, evolution and present situation of the Task Force. Inspite of several diversities
some “minimum common denominators” have been identified among NGOs which also constitute
the basis of a fruitful exchange of experiences and results. The author identifies two main forms
of networking for greater coordination between NGOs.
109
AFRICA
Journals
DE GRAAF, MARTIN
“Catching Fish or Liberating man : Social Development in Zimbabwe”
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, 1986
ZIMBABWE
The writer has analysed problems related to life in Africa, and examined the extent of peoples
participation in their development. According to him participation is the first, last and intermediate
step in all approaches towards real development; the involvement of people concerned in the precise
definition of their needs, their resources and their choice regarding their own development and the
change of their environment. He has also analysed the present role of NGOs in Africa and has
mentioned other roles related to the overall development of the people. He examines the role of the
government in the development process, and its relationship with NGOs.
DE GRAAF, MARTIN
“Context, Constraint or Control?
Zimbabwean Ngos and Their Environment”
DEVELOPMENT POLICY REVIEW, Vol. 5, 1987
SAGE PUBLICATIONS, BEVERLY HILLS, USA, pp. 275 - 301
This article affirms that NGOs can only be effective if and when they develop and apply an articulate
sense of their wider environment and actively devote considerable organisational resources
towards interacting and influencing their environment. In this context, the author examines some
issues facing Zimbabwean NGOs in the post-independence period, and concentrates on the
relations between NGO operations in that country and the wider environment, notably its political and
economic aspects.
TABAN, ALFRED LOGUNE
“Sudan Relying on the NGOs”
PANOSCOPE, No. 6, May, 1988
PANOS INSTITUTE, LONDON, UK
This article looks at the position of NGOs in Sudan and examines their relationship with Northern
NGOs, funders, and the government. The writer also reviews various criticisms faced by local
NGOs, and analyses them, putting forward the NGO perspective and standpoint. He outlines
the difficulties which NGOs face in relation to personnel, lack of funds, government inertia, etc.
At the end, he observes that the main problem local NGOs face is the lack of resources in relation
to their far richer Northern partners.
110
I
Papers
BARCLAY, A.H.
“The Development Impact of Private Voluntary Organisations”
KENYA, AFRICA
The paper is based on the study of 17 private voluntary organisations (PVOs) in Kenya and
Nigeria, with the objective of documenting evidence of development impact of PVO-assisted
projects and identifying the determinants of impact, and testing and developing a cost effective
methodology for documenting and explaining such impact within a comparative framework. The
findings suggest the magnitude of the differences in success among projects, and concentration
of PVO activities on the rural poor. A major goal of this study was to identify a methodology for
measuring PVO impact that offers a satisfactory compromise between accuracy and cost
Information on the time and resources involved in this cross-project study may offer some usefu
parameters for those planning and budgeting future impact studies.
BALDWIN, G.B.
„
“Non-governmental Organisations and African Development: an Enquiry
CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY,
OTTAWA, CANADA
This paper was prepared in connection with a long-term perspective study for sub-Saharan
Africa for the Special Economic Office, Technical Department, Africa Region. The NGOs of this
area appeared to be one of the most active and promising sectors on the African development scene.
This paper introduces one to the different kinds of NGOs at work in this region and their range
of activities. Thispaperalso contains a country-by-country summary of the work of leading Northern
NGOs in Africa, including information on how their work is financed.
Workshops/ Meetings/ Conferences
BALDUS, ROLF D.; ULLRICH, GABRIELE J.
“Promotion of Self-help Organisations of the
Implementation, Monitoring & Evaluation”
FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT,
ROME, ITALY
Rural
Poor
in Africa: Problems of
This is a report of a seminar organised by the German Foundation for International Development,
in collaboration with FAO, where participants form various African countries came together to
exchange views on problems of implementation, monitoring and evaluation of Self-help projects.
The report provides a frame for elaborating guidelines for the implementation of such projects at the
national level. According to this report, this people’s participation programme which has been
supported since 1980 by the German Foundation for International Development, has shown that
after positive declarations at policy level, problems arise with the implementation of action promoting
SHO of the rural poor. It is essential for the participation of the target groups that projects are
identified and implemented with the people, and not for them.
111
FAO-FFHC/ACTION FOR DEVELOPMENT
“Report of a Workshop for NGOs in Sierra Leone”
FAO, 1984
ROME, ITALY, Pages 23
FFHC/ Action for Development is an FAO programme with a special mandateScuprovide support
forthe efforts of non-governmental organisations in rural development, with in areas a concentration
of the poorer sectors of the population, and in promoting public debate and exchange on development
issues. This is a report of a workshop organised by FAO to bring together a number of local African
NGOs and representatives of FFHC/AD to exchange information on activities, approaches and
needs to identify some areas of common concern which could form the basis of a concrete
programme on cooperation. The issues discussed at the workshop include types of NGOs and their
structures, relationships with the community, identification of needs and project formulation,
monitoring, follow up, evaluation, etc.
INSTITUTE FOR AFRICAN ALTERNATIVES
“The Impact of the IMF and World Bank Policies on the People of Africa”
September 07- 11,1987
LONDON, UK
Among the themes and topics dealt with at this Conference were the objectives and growth of the
Bretton Woods International Monetary System which gave birth to the IMF and World Bank at
Bretton Woods, USA in 1944. The IMF and Bank programmes in Africa and their effects on individual
African countries are discussed with respect to different sectors of the economy, and to social
groups. The impact of these policies on Africa as a whole and on the world economy were also
examined. Suggestions of alternative policies, programmes and solutions for Africa’s economic
recovery and for the reform of the Fund and Bank were then discussed extensively. The rest of
this report is a summary of the main findings and conclusions of the conference.
EUROPE
ROOFF, MADELINE
VOLUNTARY SOCIETIES AND SOCIAL POLICY
ROUTLEDGE AND KEGAN PAUL LTD, 1957
LONDON, UK
This book highlights the influence of changes in the economic and social structure upon the
development of voluntary organisations in Britain. It illustrates the changing relationship between
voluntary and statutory bodies, and the corresponding shift in emphasis in the function of voluntary
societies which has necessitated the working out of new forms of organisation, involving the
coordination of voluntary action, and closer co-operation with statutory authorities. One of the most
significant changes has been in the attitude towards the beneficiaries of social service. The author
highlights that one of the problems today is the need for an effective method for coordinating
activities ofthose who work in allied fields of social service. In conclusion, the author says that there
is an urgent need to strengthen funding to voluntary organisations because many are struggling
against heavy odds to make their full contribution.
112
LATIN AMERICA
“Non-governmental Organisations - A New Institutional Reality in Latin America”
1985
This paper focuses on the role of NGOs networks in five Latin American countries - Brazil, Mexico,
Nicaragua, Paraguay and Peru. It brings out the experiences in these countries withintheir different
geographical, cultural, political and economic contexts. It also provides a picture of the difficulties
and potentials of creating links among NGOs and between NGOs and state institutions. It further
emphasizes the strategic importance of NGOs as promoters of people’s participation if real
development is to be achieved. The paper emphasizes the project unit that is fundamental for the
constitution, growth and development of an NGO. It discusses the financing sources to the NGOs,
and the differences between NGOs. It also states that the social and political context in which
NGOs operate has repercussions on their work.
MENDEZ, LUIS LOPEZLLER
“The Changing Role of NGOs in Latin America”
March 25-28,1988
NEW DELHI, INDIA
Poverty is not an exception in Latin America. This paper traces the role of NGOs in alleviating this
situation of poverty, and the political constraints under which they have to work in the Latin American
continent. After the Second World War, the NGOs started a new wave of civil initiatives, in relation
to the problems, changes and adjustments generated by more patent processes of industrialisation
and urbanisation. In this context, the paper traces the role and politicisation of NGOs in Latin
America, to the present situation of challenging the political systems and structures.
113
NORTH AMERICA
Books
SOMMER, JOHN G.;
BEYOND CHARITY:
U.S.AID FORA CHANGING THIRD WORLD
“U S Private Voluntary Organisations AssistingThird World Development”
OVERSEAS DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, 1977 WASHINGTON, US, pp. 47 - 66
The author analyses the role played by US private voluntary organisations (PVOs) who work
overseas in developing countries. The article provides an overview of the different kinds of
developmental activities which are undertaken by PVOs and discusses a number of related
issues. The paper groups the efforts of PVOs under development of physical and income
generating infrastructure,development of institutions, and the development of human resources.
The operational plans and implementation strategies of these efforts are examined, highlighting
the advantages and disadvantages of each category. The author has also cited a number of
examples of activities undertaken by PVOs which have succeeded and some which have networked
out as planned, and examines the reasons for both.
Journals
KUHN, HELMUT
“Volunteers in Canada”
NCOS AND DEVELOPMENT, 1986
CUSO, OTTAWA, CANADA
The vital question is why volunteers are so important to development agencies. The author
states that the biggest and toughest job is to raise the level of public awareness, and the greatest
potential for progress in this task lies in the creation of a widespread network of committed volunteers.
The chief tasks of voluntary agencies for world development are outlined, both nationally and
internationally. The paper says that another task on hand is to develop the potential of changing public
awareness and behaviour, and to evolve programmes for doing this.
114
MURPHY, BRIAN K.
“Canadian NGOs and Political Activism”
NGOS AND DEVELOPMENT, 1986 CUSO,
OTTAWA, CANADA
The author has described that the support for movements for change and social development
Requires political commitment and political action from Canadian NGOs. bold
"
the experience gained and relationship developed there. Ways in which this can be developed
outlined.
/
Papers
BRENT, HERBERT COPLEY
“Canadian NGOs : Past Trends, Future Challenges
NORTH SOUTH INSTITUTE,
OTTAWA, CANADA
DAcnitR their diversity Canadian NGOs share certain common characteristics owing to their
similar histories and scared operating environment. This article traces the historical background
of Canadian NGOs, including foreign affiliations and funding . ^Jc,esc^^^Xnal
rpiationshio of the NGOs with the Canadian Government with the Canadian Internationa
Development Agency, which was the first official aid agency of any industrialised! countr!rE.'?®fr9!2g
trends and he changing partnership pattern over the years are analysed. The author is of the
oXn that the mXr challenge that lies ahead of Canadian NGOs is the challenge of growth
which will naturally entail the challenge of coping with growth of expectations from various
constituents.
KORTEN, DAVID C.
“Micro-policy Reforms : The Role of Private
XSXSStOOLS OF PUBUC AFFAIRS. & AOMINtSTRATiON.
No. 12 August 08,1986
WASHINGTON D.C., USA, Pages 194
This naoer araues that donor agencies have always looked at themselves as the primary actors
i^thePpromotion of reform, assuming that financial leverage is the key to the outcome they seek.
This is an oversight because, according to the author, Private Voluntary Organisations (PVOs) can
substantially increase the impact of development through positioning themselves as catalysts n
suppedJSKe p£ re^
which depend" on the development of new institutional capac.t.esJn
this context he analyses the historical experience of some American PVOs which have a history
oftakfnqlhelead in supporting policy and institutional changes of considerable significance. Now
in the mid-80s a growing variety of PVOs, both large and small, are becoming aware of their
ootential in this area and should be facilitated to move from a basically operational role to a more
catalvtical role In hi’s opinion, PVOs should move away from being service delivery agencies, and
operate more in the manner of a foundation, directing their attention to facilitating development
by other organisations, both public and private.
115
FOX, THOMAS H.
“NGOs From the United States” 1987
USA, Pages 2
This study deals with the programmes, governance, effectiveness and role in development of
voluntary organisations in the United States. The paper traces the beginnings of NGOs in the US,
and stresses their diversity, and examines the challenges and problems faced by them. Money
is the principal determinant of the size of US NGOs. The aspect of operational style for most NGOs
is in a “hands - on” way. Most NGOs work in a supportive, complimentary relationship to local
institutions, rather than direct project implementors. Most are intermediaries for US government
interests and priorities.
ASIA
UDUWELA, P.D.
THE ROLE OF RURAL INSTITUTIONS AND
VOLUNTARY GROUPS IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
UNESCO,
PARIS, FRANCE, Pages 24
•
The author has briefly analysed the role of rural institutions and voluntary groups in community
development in Sri Lanka. According to him community development of a country is exercised by
two groups. Both groups play a very important part in the daily lives.of the people particularly in
relation to their economic health and cultural life. The author examines the relationship between
.rural development societies, and the Department of Rural Development in the Ministry of Home
Affairsand community centres and local Government. The author generalises his views to
extend to other parts of the world by saying that all rural institutions and voluntary groups play an
important role in their communities by catering to their many varied needs - which, indeed, is their
raison d etre - and that it must necessarily follow that they can and should be encouraged
to play their rightful role in community development.
WIGNARAJA, PONNA; HUSSAIN, AKMAL (EDS)
THE CHALLENGE IN SOUTH ASIA : DEVELOPMENT,
DEMOCRACY AND REGIONAL COOPERATION
SAGE PUBLICATIONS, 1989
NEW DELHI, INDIA, Pages 360
The significance of this book is that it embodies the thinking of those South Asian scholars
attempting to break out of conventional paradigms. It endeavours to go beyond single discipline
analysis, narrow quantification and an a priori theorising, and transcends conventional neo
classical and Marxist thinking. The contributors attempt to articulate those alternatives which
are sustainable in the present South Asian context, and outline guidelines for regional cooperation
and reflection through networks, institutions and innovative inter-disciplinary research agendas.
116
Journals
CONSTANTINO, DAVID KARINA
“Issues in Community Organisation”
PRISMA, 1980 JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 70 - 78
Voluntary organisations involved in organising communities often encounter problems and
dilemmas. The author traces the basic roots of these problems and suggests that they can be
avoided or resolved if voluntary organisations orient themselves to the larger purpose within which
organised communities can play a truly meaningful role. The basic contradictions prevalent in
third world development strategies are analysed, and an attempt made to discuss the nature of these
contradictions. He has argued that many of the recurrent problems of organising work could be
successfully avoided or resolved if groups involved in this kind of work constantly oriented
themselves to larger visions of alternative social orders within which militant and organised
communities can play a truly meaningful role.
*
CHIEN, DOH JOON
“Voluntary Organisations With Special Reference to Malaysia”
PRISMA, 1980
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 32 - 43
The author observes that among the four major groups of voluntary organisations which can be found
in Malaysia, the biggest are traditional organisations followed by activity-based organisations.
There are service and welfare organisations and organisations which are involved in social
objectives. Two organisations described by the author are the Consumer Association of Penang
(CAP) and ALIRAN (Society for National Consciousness). The government has been a positive
force in the development of the country. The author observes that with goodwill and understanding
on each side, the relationship between government and voluntary organisations should prove
mutually satisfying.
HENDRATA, LUKAS
“Bureaucracy, Participation and Distribution
in Indonesian Development”
PRISMA, Vol. 28, June, 1983
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 21 - 32
In Indonesia, the paramount role of development agent is played by the government. In view of
this, the author calls for a thorough reform of the bureaucracy such that it would be equipped to
respond to the community’s needs and initiatives. However, the author reiterates the point that this
kind of reform can only be brought about by a complete change in the present system and
organisational structure, and anew approach. And this new approach must include NGOs because
they can play a vital role in development.
117
'
HAINSWORTH, GEOFFREY B.
“Private Voluntary Organisations and Socio-economic
Security and Equality in Indonesia”
PRISMA, JAKARTA, INDONESIA
This article discusses the role of Private Voluntary Organisations in development efforts to
provide basic needs and promote social and economic development in Indonesia. The author
characterises these non-government development organisations as a third force besides the
government and the private sector. In times of social and economictransition, he sees a dual function
for PVOs - as “escape valves" for channeling felt needs and as social adhesive holding the society
together. Thus the author observes that, a good relationship between government and PVOs, at
national, local and village levels, is critical to the smooth and efficient realisation of their full potential.
MALLIKAWANGIA, SUNDARA
“Sri Lanka : Filling in the Gap”
PANOSCOPE, No. 6, 1988
PANOS INSTITUTE, LONDON, UK
This article looks into the working of NGOs in Sri Lanka from the year 1983. As violence escalated,
dependence on government assistance and NGO aid went up. NGOs help out because government
servants are unable to go into some affected areas. Sri Lankan NGOs are staffed almost entirely
by local volunteers and a few full-time paid NGO officials. Sarvodaya is the biggest NGO in Sri
Lanka. NGOs are better equipped to create the bottom-up-process, but they need the government
servants’ co-operation in order to carry on their work.
PINNEY, ANDREW
“Partners in Development? the Government and NGOs in Indonesia”
PRISMA,
JAKARTA, INDONESIA
Non-government development organisations have proved to be innovative, responsive to local
conditions and skilled in stimulating popular participation. This article analyses some of the
structural shortcomings of the Indonesian government’s approach to development and assesses
the efforts made by non-government organisations. The author says that in recent years the
Indonesian government has become more aware of the role and potentials of NGOs and this could
be a good sign. The author compares the different ways of functioning of both the NGO sector and
the government structure, highlighting the flexibility and commitment of the former as compared to
the latter. The article concludes with a consideration of the possibilities and the pitfalls of NGOgovernment collaboration.
118
SAID KHAN, NIGHAT; BHASIN, KAMLA
“Non-governmental Organisations - Their Role in Development”
THE COURIER, No. 37, July, 1986
ASIAN SOUTH PACIFIC BUREAU OF ADULT EDUCATION,
CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA, pp. 3 -13
This article analyses the working of NGOs in South Asia. The view of the authors is that development
strategies and programmes implemented in this region have failed to attack the real cause of rural
poverty, mainly because they have not been based on the needs of the people. Although there are
cou ntless NGOs working in th is region, according to the authors, only a fraction of them work towards
empowering the rural poor, and even those that do tend to be micro-organisations dealing with local
issues. Also, the governments in this area are working towards cooptation and control of NGOs.
The NGOs, which are working towards empowerment of the poor must consolidate their efforts,
and support each other, in order to reverse the very process of development and to avoid
suppression.
SEAH, CHEE-HEOW
“Voluntary Organisations in Singapore : An Overview”
PRISMA, 1980
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 32 - 43
The author describes the historical growth and development of NGOs in Singapore upto the present
times when most of them are government-sponsored private organisations and trade unions. He
analyses the effect of this government sponsorship on the work of NGOs, and looks at the positive
and negative aspects. He is of the opinion that such a relationship should be as flexible as possible,
and strict control measures should be avoided because this will lead to a decline of interest in
voluntary organisations and create a tendency in the people to depend on the State for everything.
Unless this trend of control is checked, then in future the beneficial aspects of the integration will
be negated and compromised.
WIROSARDJONO, SOETJIPTO
“People’s Participation at the Local Level”
PRISMA, 1980
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 59 - 69
According to the author the success of a number of community programmes in Indonesia can
be credited to the active participation of local associations and groups, such as neighbourhood
associations. The objectiveof these organisationsis to promote and preserve the tradition of Gotong
Royong, a traditional social system in which community interest precedes individual interest. The
author describes the functioning of such associations and the problems encountered in the attempt
to promote people’s participation in community development programmes.
119
WILLIAMS, GLEN
“Community Participation and the Role of Voluntary
Agencies in Indonesia”
PRISMA, 1980
JAKARTA, INDONESIA, pp. 11-31
The author, who works closely with community development projects in the rural areas of Java,
discusses the problems of harnessing community participation in programmes and decision
making, as well as the roles of both Indonesian and foreign voluntary organisations in fostering
such participation. He outlines the main characteristics of Indonesian voluntary agencies, and the
programmes in which they are involved, and examines how successful these programmes
have been in ensuring community participation, and the methods that they use.
Papers
BHASIN, KAMLA; MALIK, BALJIT
“People’s Action in Asia : Constraints, Possibilities, Breakthrough Points”
ACFOD, January, 1977
BANGKOK, THAILAND, Pages 21
This article is based on a questionnaire sent to 60 people in Asia to get information about NGO
activities. Twelve answers from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand were
received. The answers reveal varying perceptions regarding the nature and scope of NGO activities.
The study has taken up instances of people’s action in Asia, India and Philippines to examine NGOs
as indigenous groups, as related to political parlies, how NGOs can mobilise public opinion, and
the potential of religious organisations. The study also examines the problems faced by NGOs
regarding funding, relationships with the government, and coordination amongst themselves.
BHAT, ANIL
“Issues in the Development of the Most Disadvantaged
Groups in South Asia”
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT, 1985
AHMEDABAD, INDIA
The paper discusses the efforts made in the development of the Most Disadvantaged Groups
(MDGs) in South Asia, and delineates some broad factors which impede this process. The author
agrees that a major policy thrust which involves the MDGs as active participants, rather than
recipient groups is called for. The delivery system requires decentralisation - since the major
problem is for the poor to “reach up” and “pull down” the benefits. The author observes that
procedures and mechanisms should be devised to create the necessary climate and processes
at the higher levels of politics and administration which will support field-level delivery systems to
overcome the barriers of management, and the social and political circumstances of deprivation
of the MDGs. The author cites some examples of groups in Bihar which have been successful in doing
this.
z
120
BRAC
“Background Note for the BRAC Case Series”
DACCA, BANGLADESH
This paper provides background data on Bangladesh development, BRAC’s history and other NGOs
in Bangladesh, as a precursor to the case series on BRAG. It examines the political and social
aspects of the development scenario in Bangladesh, historically, and then looks at the role and
position of BRAG in this scenario. It outlines how BRAG started, its initial programmes, its growth over
the years, its structure, operating method, etc. The article also contains some tables regarding the
personnel in BRAG and the staffing patterns.
HORACE, PROFESSOR: GRANT, JOHN B.
“Report of the Mission on Community Organisation and
Development in South and South East Asia”
This paper has dealt with the limitations and the nature of the contributions made by voluntary
agencies in rural development, with special emphasis on the success and importance of self-help
activities. It suggests that the main criterion by which programmes should be judged is the
possibility of extending or duplicating them on a national scale. The report looks at the ways in
which voluntary agencies in South and South East Asia could work together or independently to
hasten the pace of development. It also examines the weaknesses of certain types of programmes
while citing success stories from countries of this region such as India and Sri Lanka.
MALIK, BALJIT
“The Dilemma of Peasant Organisations in Asia”
This paper brings out the problems faced by poor workers in third world countries, who have
been denied the fruits of development. The writer is of the view that cooperatives, panchayats,
community-development programmes and other such institutions have not succeeded in tackling
poverty, and that these institutions have been monopolised bythe more affluent and powerful groups
who havetaken away all the benefits. The paper has also dealt with the politics of peasant oppression
in India. For measures such as debt-redemption and enforcement of minimum wages and land
reform to become effective, it is obviously necessary that landless labourers and small peasants
should have their own organisations in order to protect their interests and challenge the power of
land-lords, money lenders and those in the administration who are in league with the former.
According tothe author, in many areas peasants are dependent on theirfeudal lords, and because
of unemployment it is difficult to organise them into an effective political group.
121
QUIZON, TONY
“Widening the NGO Perspective : A New Climate and a Broader Role for Philippine NGOs”
ANGOC,
MANILA, PHILIPPINES
This article has critically analysed the role of Philippine NGOs. The author feels that in the past, most
of the NGOs chose to ignore the government because of its repressive, top-down character.
But this no longer holds true today. The opportunities open to NGOs now demand closer NGOgovernment collaboration which, if not encouraged would mean denying a fundamental role of
NGOs. But the author points out that working with government, however, should not mean cooptation
of one by the other, for NGOs have a unique role and mission to play. NGOs should cooperate among
themselves, and respect each other’s autonomy, for the smallness, flexibility, multiplicity and selfdirectedness of each NGO are in the end their source of strength. Any attempt to coopt NGO efforts
will imply loss of their creativity and dynamism.
SOUTH EAST ASIA REGIONAL INSTITUTE FOR COMMUNITY EDUCATION
“The Role of NGOs in the Current Philippines Situation”
1987
MANILA, PHILIPPINES
This consists of papers and presentations on the background of Helvetas and its orientation, and
a summary of its perception of Philippine reality. The issues covered by the various articles include
: Comments on the perceptions of Philippines society relating to areas like the Cordillera People’s
Liberation Army as representative of the insurgency factor; the problems confronting donors,
especially in dealings with NGOs.
WIJKMAN, ANDERS
“A Question of Vulnerability : The Philippine Disaster Situation”
June, 1986
This paper highlights how disasters have affected the Philippines, and gives suggestions
to solve the problems resulting from disasters. A disaster is defined as a catastrophic situation
in which the day-to-day patterns of life are disrupted and, people need protection, food, clothing,
shelter, medical and social care. The author says that the Philippines has been subjected to a
number of disasters which have contributed to the continuing marginalisation of the people, which
is in itself a disaster situation. The paper suggests that these problems can be solved by
developmental processes aimed at improving the conditions of both the natural environment and
poor people.
122
Workshops/Meetings/Conferences
ASIA CULTURAL FORUM ON DEVELOPMENT
“Independence or Self Reliance? What are the Alternatives to Grants for Asian NGOs”
February 16- 19, 1987 BANGKOK, THAILAND
(SEE NGOS AND FUNDING)
BERNARD, ANNE K.;
DRAFT REPORT OF THE SOUTH ASIA MEETING
“The Role of Research in Voluntary Organisations” COLOMBO, SRI LANKA
This paper contains summaries of two meetings held to discuss the necessity of research in NGO
activities. The paper reflects on the roles, attitudes and constraints involved in undertaking
development related research, with a view to understanding whether and how such activities
might be more effectively supported. It also analyses some relevant issues to the field of NGOs,
particularly in South East Asia. It analyses the prime research activities of two organisations in
this region - the Society for Participatory Research in Asia (India) and the Centre for Society and
Religion (Sri Lanka). In conclusion, the paper says that NGO research is practice-oriented and can
influence policy action.
123
DIRECTORIES INDEX
AND
LITERATURE REVIEW
DIRECTORIES INDEX
AND
LITERATURE REVIEW
COUNCIL ON FOUNDATIONS
DIRECTORY OF FOUNDATIONS, FUNDS AND GRANTING AGENCIES INTERNATIONAL AND NATIONAL
1987 INDIA
This edition of the Directory provides comprehensive data on more than 3,000 international and
national organisations, which are listed subject-wise with full details of their aims and objectives.
This directory has been compiled to serve as a practical guide to agencies that support
development projects with technical, material and financial assistance. It is also intended to assist
institutions and voluntary agencies to expand and develop existing projects or to start new projects.
Volume I consists of social welfare organisations, educational, medical and cultural organisations.
Volume II consists of catholic, protestant and other religious and welfare organisations and
government welfare schemes with grant-in-aid details.
ESCAP
HANDBOOK ON FUNDING AND TRAINING RESOURCES FOR
DISABILITY- RELATED SERVICES IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
UNITED NATIONS
This handbook provides information on organisations working on rehabilitation, and on the
resources that are made available to assist the concerned personnel at the grassroots level. The
handbook is based on the premise that to funding and training are a necessary step to the
establishment and development of rehabilitation programmes. Most people with disabilities receive
no publicly-sponsored assistance, rehabilitation or financial aid to enable them to live adequately
in their societies and participate effectively in the development of their countries. Many
organisations throughout the world, however, do offer assistance, both financial and in-kind, to
disabled people, and this directory lists such agencies.
127
KAPOOR, KK.
DIRECTORY OF FUNDING ORGANISATIONS - FOREIGN AND INDIAN INFORMATION AND
NEWS NETWORK,
NEW DELHI, INDIA, Pages 16
This directory has basic information about funding organisations, resource agencies, training
programmes, etc., which would be useful in planning, implementation and co-ordination of
programmes of constructive work for social change, for functionaries of voluntary agencies in
the field. The entries of funding and resource organisations have been classified under the following
heads: foreign funding organisations, agencies with counterparts or representative offices in India;
list of Indian funding organisations (NGOs/autonomous organisations and central government
funding sources); and, international agencies. It also has a list of organisations which provide
training and publications on voluntary work.
RAC, K.R.
CUMULATIVE INDEX TO THE INDIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK
VOLUMES 1-40 (1940-1980)
TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES,
BOMBAY, INDIA
This volume of the Indian Journal of Social Work contains a cumulative Index covering the period
1940-1980. It provides both an Author Index as also a subject Index to all articles which have
appeared in the Journal during the first forty-year period. The index is particularly useful because
it provides multiple entries under different subject heads for the same articles, depending upon
the subject covered. This helps ensure that the researcher does not miss any aspect of an article.
Part 1 of the volume contains subject-wise entries arranged alphabetically and Part II provides an
author index arranged alphabetically with all the bibliographical details for each article including the
volume number, the issue number, the year, the pages, etc. The index will be useful for teachers
and researchers who are interested in broad areas of social welfare and social services.
RAO, ARUNASREE P.
THE ROLE OF NCOS IN COMMUNITY LEVEL BROKERING OF TECHNOLOGY IN INDIA AND
BANGLADESH
INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH CENTRE & ROCKEFELLER FOUNDATION,
December, 1986
WASHINGTON, USA
This is an extensive survey of literature related to NGOs and their role in community level brokering
of technology, with reference to India and Bangladesh. The author has divided NGOs into two
broad types - development-oriented and action-oriented groups. The key area of review is the
mediating role that NGOs play between the disadvantaged group and larger resource and service
delivery systems. Various aspects of this role are looked into - how it is developed and maintained,
how it varies with respect to different services and technologies and with different types of NGOs;
and what are the different factors which influence its effectiveness. According to the author, future
research should examine the interest and ability of NGOs to withstand various political forces in
the pursuit of their goals.
128
SAHABAT ALAM
DIRECTORY OF ENVIRONMENTAL NGOS IN THE ASIA PACIFIC REGION
PENANG, MALAYSIA
'
This directory is a comprehensive multisector listing of NGOs working on environment in this
region. It provides data on addresses, telephone numbers, contact persons, membership
activities, publications, achievements, problems and proposals of the various organisations. The
profiles of these were compiled from questionnaires completed by the organisations themselves.
Through the Asia-Pacific Peoples Environment Network, it is hoped that organisations, international
agencies and researchers can coordinate in a more concerted effort in campaigns and work
programmes, and collaborate on environmental issues.
SUBRAMANIAM, ASHOK; MEHTA, MONA
“A Profile of Voluntary Health Efforts in Gujarat”
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT, No. 509, May, 1984 AHMEDABAD, INDIA
(SEE SECTORAL HEALTH)
NGOS AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS
UNDP COOPERATION FOR DEVELOPMENT
1986
ROME, ITALY
According to this book, there are many opportunities for practical cooperation between non
governmental organisations, and the UNDP and associated funds and programmes. There are
many examples of such collaboration, thus bringing their combined capacities to bear in support
of the social and economic objectives set by individual developing countries. Because UNDP’s
mandate is very broad, covering practically every aspect of technical cooperation with a large
number of development projects and programmes. This guide aims to clarify some important issues
concerning UNDP/NGO collaboration. It provides basic information on the funds administered by
UNDP, outlines some possibilities for cooperation, and gives suggestions for actions which
organisations might take in initiating closer ties.
BETTS, TRISTRAM F.
“Voluntary Agencies and the United Nations”
DEVELOPMENT DIGEST, 1980
UNITED NATIONS, NEW YORK, USA, pp. 82 - 92
The author has analysed the role and the relationship of the United Nations (UN) with voluntary
organisations all over world, particularly with reference to third world countries. According to the
author, private voluntary organisations have a tradition of independence, but in the third world
development field there have been a number of moves towards coordination and even joint
organisations and programmes, and the UN has had an important role in this. In this paper he has
traced the development and increasing acceptance of the voluntary agency approach and has
analysed the important issue of financial strength of voluntary organisations and the role of the UN,
state governments and the public in supporting this.
129
MELLINGER, DOUGH; ATHERTON, MARTIN
“The World Bank : Real Change at Last?”
PANOSCOPE, No. 6, May, 1988
PANOS INSTITUTE, LONDON, UK
This article observes that over the past few years, the World Bank has joined the chorus of agrowing
a number of international agencies singing the praise of NGOs. Recent events at the World Bank
and, more importantly, in the international economy, have expanded the reasons fcr its interest
in NGOs beyond public relations. The writers have discussed the reasons behind this apparent
change in attitude, and analysed why it is necessary for the World Bank to cooperate with NGOs.
Thearticle observesthat, with a new generation of field-oriented staff receiving such positive signals
from top Bank management, work with NGOs has become acceptable and even fashionable. But
it is still very far from widespread at the Bank, and the intentions are not yet very clear.
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE
“Voluntary Aid for Development - The Role of
Non-governmental Organisations”
ORGANISATION FOR ECONOMIC COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT, 1987
PARIS, FRANCE, Pages 133
This is the report of the discussions held in the Development Assistance Committee of the OECD
on the role of NGOs. It is an exhaustive report which spans from a definition of NGOs, to their historic
development, cooperation with aid organisations, and changing orientation amongst NGOs. It looks
at examples of local NGOs in Africa and Asia. The last part of the report is a review of recent
evaluations and researchon NGOs, and a detailed analysis ofthepresent and future roles of NGOs
in Development Education.
WORLD BANK
“Report of the Meeting of the World Bank
Non-governmental Organisations Committee”
January 28,1988
WASHINGTON, USA, Pages 3
This is a report of the Seventh Annual meeting of the World Bank Non-Governmental Organisations
(NGO) Committee and more generally on further progress in the evolution of cooperation between
the Bank and NGOs, documenting examples of the different aspects of the evolving relationship
between NGOs and the Bank. It also includes a note on the conclusions reached during this meeting
and a list of committee members. The report covers the period from November 1986 to October
1987. This was presented in draft at the Santo Domingo meeting and circulated to managers
throughout the bank for comment. Out of the six examples cited and discussed under Bank-NGO
interaction on environmentally controversial projects, two projects are based in India.
130
“Un-NGO Workshop on Debt Adjustment and the Needs of the Poor”
September 19-22,1987
OXFORD, UK
This report attempts to analyse the economic and development crisis and the action/role NGOs
can play to overcome this. The NGOs at the workshop were of the opinion that the world economic
and development crisis are not cyclical problems but have fundamental and deep roots. Crucial
elements of theircontribution to tackling vital development issues have been discussed, including
the relationship NGOs should have with their governments, UN organisations, donor agencies,
banks, and the commercial sector, both in their countries and internationally.
UNESCO
“Seminar on Relations Between Unesco and NGOs”
April 12-14, 1988
PARIS, FRANCE
This report of a seminar stresses the need to promote better understanding between UNESCO
and NGOs by using new ideas and initiatives to increase future mutual cooperation, reducing the
isolation between both parties. The major challenge,according to this report, is to provide for
exchange and participation between the two. The seminar was of the opinion that this would entail
keeping a rigid balance between theory and research on the one hand, and practice and field action
on the other hand. Ways of bridging this gap in orderto ensure freer flow of information and dialogue
between field level NGO workers and the policy makers of the enormous machinery of an
organisation such as UNESCO were discussed and are outlined in this report.
131
CODE OF
CONDUCT
10
Books
CARDOZO, NICKY; THEKKAN, VARGHESE; GARAIN, SWAPAN
THE DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION ON THE NATIONAL COUNCIL FOR RURAL VOLUN
TARY AGENCIES AND THE CODE OF CONDUCT
TATA INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES,
BOMBAY, INDIA
This book is a consolidation of all the debates, discussions and deliberations on the National
Council of Rural Voluntary Agencies and the Code of Conduct which took place during the
seminar on the same topic held at the Tata Institute. The contents of this book include dia
logues on the need for a National Body, its structure and functions, and other alternatives to
strengthen the voluntary movement. The authors have compiled materials on the origin, merits
and demerits of the draft. The book also contains a bibliography which covers articles on the
debate from newspapers, letters and other writings on the topic.
INDIAN CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT CENTRE
STATEMENT ON DRAFT BILL, 1986, ON THE COUNCIL OF RURAL
VOLUNTARY AGENCIES, 1987
MADRAS, INDIA, Pages 11
An attempt is made to highlight the absurdity of the proposal for a Council of Rural Voluntary
Agencies and the Code of Conduct. It elaborates various requirements of the Council, its conse
quences, and its subsequent impact on development work. The main negative points of the Bill
are analysed and commented on in detail.
VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT
VOLUNTARISM VIS-A-VIS THE STATE - A COLLECTION OF ARTICLES
BANGALORE, INDIA
This booklet carries a number of articles and statements in response to proposals for
establishment of national and state councils of rural voluntary agencies, and a Code of Conduct
forNGOs, by people like Bunker Roy, Upendra Baxi, Rajesh Tandon, Daisy Dharamraj, and
Jai Sen. These writers throw light on the new move to regulate the NGO sector.
135
Newspaper Clippings
NINAN, SEVANTI
“Does Government Want Ngos?”
INDIAN EXPRESS, July 19, 1985
BOMBAY, INDIA
The writer has critically analysed the role of the government in harassing non-governmental
organisations (NGOs) or voluntary organisations. The author has raised some questions
such as: why does the government at the policy level wish to coopt the voluntary sector?
What kind of NGOs does the government wish to work with? And what kind of development
activity does it approve of : the kind that does not upset politicians? The author identifies
some reasons for the indifferent attitude of the government. Finally the author indicates
that if it is government policy to invite assistance from NGOs in implementing its multi-care
schemes, policy makers and administrators alike need to be clear about the questions raised by
the author.
ROY, BUNKER
“Voluntary Agencies : Is a Common Code Needed?”
HINDUSTAN TIMES, January 19,1987
NEW DELHI, INDIA
In this paper, the writer discusses the relationship between the government and voluntary
agencies, and the importance and consequence of the Code of Conduct imposed on NGOs.
According to the author all is not well with the voluntary sector and something drastic
needs to be done. The debate reveals the intellectual dishonesty of the bigger, affluent,
urban-based groups. He says that on one hand, they oppose the Code of Conduct but, on
the other hand, they need government help particularly in terms of financial assistance. The
author thinks that double standards adopted by the rich urban-based groups are becoming
potentially clear. When they approach the government directly for funds, that shows flexibility,
autonomy, initiative and drive; if small village-based groups do the same, they are cautioned
against losing their independence.
SHARMA, KALPANA
“Neutralising Voluntary Agencies”
INDIAN EXPRESS, August 03, 1986
BOMBAY, INDIA
The author highlights the relationship between voluntary organisations and the govern
ment. She looks at the working of voluntary organisations in India, and says that they have
been playing the role of opposition to the government’s authoritarian attitude. In many in
stances, voluntary groups have been instrumental in highlighting the partisan nature of
developmental plans which have been detrimental to the health and well-being of the poorest and
also harmful to the environment. Because of this the government wants to neutralise NGOs by
enforcing a Code of Conduct. This will neutralise the groups that have no access to other
funding, on the one hand, and isolate those groups which do not wish to cooperate with the
government.
136
Journals
ALI BAIG, TARA
“Voluntary Agencies’ Dilemma”
BUSINESS WORLD, March 16 - 29,1987
BOMBAY, INDIA
The writer articulates her apprehensions about the government’s plan of bringing voluntary
agencies under one umbrella by issuing a Code of Conduct. According to her, this will become a
means of destroying individual initiative in small communities painfully and slowly learning how
to stand on their own feet. She states that while not opposed to the legislation of a Code of
Conduct, independent NGO’s however feel that the code must be shaped and administered by
the voluntary organisations themselves so that there is no risk to their independence or flexibil
ity. Voluntary agencies will therefore, maintain a solid front to prevent the erosion of their
right to function as independent entities, though it is possible they might join forces to
protect the initiative of citizens who have as much at stake in the country’s progress and eco
nomic development as those in power or those who seek it.
BHARGAVA, K.S.
“Shackling Voluntary Organisations”
SURYA, November, 1986
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 8-11
In this article the author observes that although recently the government in India has been
drawing voluntary agencies into official welfare programmes and providing them with ade
quate resources, the government has also been proposing to undermine the non-govemmental
character of NGOs, thus negating their basic rationale of work. It is because of the autonomy and
independence from bureaucratic control and procedures that NGOs have been able to do good
work. If that autonomy is diluted and bureaucratic control and procedures forced on these
organisations, they will be reduced to becoming adjuncts to the bureaucracy, and their appeal
and reach will be affected. Therefore, the author feels that the time has come for voluntary
organisations to be alert and vigilant, and resist all attempts to co-opt them.
BAXI, UPENDRA
“Two Threats to Democratic Social Action”
MAINSTREAM, August 02,1986
NEW DELHI, INDIA
The writer states that the Code must evolve from a judicious blend of precept and a practice
of leading rural voluntary agencies. He goes on to examine.the concept of rural voluntary
social work, its stages, its target group, and its relations with the State and political parties.
137
DEO, JAI MANGAL
“Voluntary Agencies Vis-a-vis Government”
YOJANA, Vol. 31, No. 4, March 01 -15, 1987
PLANNING COMMISSION, GOVT. OF INDIA,
NEW DELHI, INDIA, pp. 11 -13
This article deals with the relationship between the government and the voluntary agencies in
the context of the proposed Code of Conduct Bill, which he says is an ill-timed and ill-con
ceived step. According to the author, a theoretical framework is needed against which voluntary
organisations can develop an adequate understanding of their position as well as their role visa-vis the government.
ROY, BUNKER
“Discipline and Accountability”
MAINSTREAM, September 20, 1986
NEW DELHI, INDIA
The author observes that urban-based groups have spread confusion on the Code of
Conduct and the proposed Council. In this paper he looks at the various arguments put
forward by this group and gives counter arguments to support the Code and the formation of
the Council. However, he adds that the Draft Bill as circulated is too pro-government, but
adds that the important thing is that a dialogue and discussion has begun on the subject.
TANDON, RAJESH
“Beware of the Gongos Regulating Ngos in India - new Moves”
ADULT EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT, No. 28, March, 1987
DVV, Bonn, FRG., pp. 27 - 36
This article analyses the contribution of NGOs to the development process, as well as the
impediments they face due to undue government interference. The proposal for setting up a
National Council, ensuring adherence to a specially legislated Code of Conduct, are examined
in the context of future implications for NGOs across the country. The author observes that
NGOs have done a lot of positive work in India, and calls them a third force - beyond the
government and corporate sector. He calls for a national debate on the Code of Conduct, in
view of the fact there are already a plethora of laws which regulate the functioning of NGOs.
138
>
Workshops/Meetings/Conferences
KOTHARI, SMITU; TANDON, RAJESH
“Report of the National Convention on Collaboration Among
NGOs”
September 26 - 28,1986
NEW DELHI, INDIA
This is a report of the debates and discussions related to the role of voluntary agencies in the
country, the Code of Conduct, and the creation of national and state councils, which took place
during the National Convention. It highlights certain important issues such as the current socio
political and economic context of voluntary work, experiences of collaboration, and
possibilities of future cooperation. The discussion at the Convention looked at the historical
relationships between the government and voluntary organisations, the financial constraints of
NGOs, and cooperation and collaboration amongst NGOs.
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139
- Media
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