We are all aware of problems that NGOs are facing trying to raise resources from foreign sources to fund their activities. On the other hand the Government is liberalizing receipt of foreign funds in other sectors.
For example, it has allowed Indian companies to raise foreign currency loans for meeting expenses towards its general corporate purposes. Even in the education sector, Ministry of Human Resource Development, being the administrative ministry for formulation of policies for the education sector, has sent a proposal to the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion and Department of Economic Affairs to permit foreign universities to open their campuses in India.
The above indicates the dichotomy of Govt. policies, where they are liberalising receipt of foreign funds in the commerce but tightening screws for the civil society sector.
This indicates how much FCRA is out of tune with the times.
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Socio Research & Reform Foundation (NGO)
512 A, Deepshikha, 8 Rajendra Place, New Delhi – 110008
e-mail: socio-research@sma.net.in; website: http://www.srr-foundation.org