• India CSR Awards 2025
  • India CSR Leadership Summit
  • Guest Posts
Sunday, October 19, 2025
India CSR
  • Home
  • Corporate Social Responsibility
    • Art & Culture
    • CSR Leaders
    • Child Rights
    • Culture
    • Education
    • Gender Equality
    • Around the World
    • Skill Development
    • Safety
    • Covid-19
    • Safe Food For All
  • Sustainability
    • Sustainability Dialogues
    • Sustainability Knowledge Series
    • Plastics
    • Sustainable Development Goals
    • ESG
    • Circular Economy
    • BRSR
  • Corporate Governance
    • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Interviews
  • SDGs
    • No Poverty
    • Zero Hunger
    • Good Health & Well-Being
    • Quality Education
    • Gender Equality
    • Clean Water & Sanitation – SDG 6
    • Affordable & Clean Energy
    • Decent Work & Economic Growth
    • Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
    • Reduced Inequalities
    • Sustainable Cities & Communities
    • Responsible Consumption & Production
    • Climate Action
    • Life Below Water
    • Life on Land
    • Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
    • Partnerships for the Goals
  • Articles
  • Events
  • हिंदी
  • More
    • Business
    • Finance
    • Environment
    • Economy
    • Health
    • Around the World
    • Social Sector Leaders
    • Social Entrepreneurship
    • Trending News
      • Important Days
        • Festivals
      • Great People
      • Product Review
      • International
      • Sports
      • Entertainment
    • Case Studies
    • Philanthropy
    • Biography
    • Technology
    • Lifestyle
    • Sports
    • Gaming
    • Knowledge
    • Home Improvement
    • Words Power
    • Chief Ministers
No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • Corporate Social Responsibility
    • Art & Culture
    • CSR Leaders
    • Child Rights
    • Culture
    • Education
    • Gender Equality
    • Around the World
    • Skill Development
    • Safety
    • Covid-19
    • Safe Food For All
  • Sustainability
    • Sustainability Dialogues
    • Sustainability Knowledge Series
    • Plastics
    • Sustainable Development Goals
    • ESG
    • Circular Economy
    • BRSR
  • Corporate Governance
    • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Interviews
  • SDGs
    • No Poverty
    • Zero Hunger
    • Good Health & Well-Being
    • Quality Education
    • Gender Equality
    • Clean Water & Sanitation – SDG 6
    • Affordable & Clean Energy
    • Decent Work & Economic Growth
    • Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
    • Reduced Inequalities
    • Sustainable Cities & Communities
    • Responsible Consumption & Production
    • Climate Action
    • Life Below Water
    • Life on Land
    • Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
    • Partnerships for the Goals
  • Articles
  • Events
  • हिंदी
  • More
    • Business
    • Finance
    • Environment
    • Economy
    • Health
    • Around the World
    • Social Sector Leaders
    • Social Entrepreneurship
    • Trending News
      • Important Days
        • Festivals
      • Great People
      • Product Review
      • International
      • Sports
      • Entertainment
    • Case Studies
    • Philanthropy
    • Biography
    • Technology
    • Lifestyle
    • Sports
    • Gaming
    • Knowledge
    • Home Improvement
    • Words Power
    • Chief Ministers
No Result
View All Result
India CSR
No Result
View All Result
India CSR Awards
ADVERTISEMENT
Home Articles

A Growth Template for NGOs

Governance, financial discipline, and collaborations engines of growth

India CSR by India CSR
October 24, 2024
in Articles
Reading Time: 5 mins read
Binaifer Jehani - Business Head, Risk Solutions – Assessments & Social Sector Consulting, CRISIL Market Intelligence and Analytics. Abbas Master - Associate Director, Risk Solutions – Assessments & Social Sector Consulting, CRISIL Market Intelligence and Analytics.

Binaifer Jehani and Abbas Master

Share Share Share Share
WhatsApp icon
WhatsApp — Join Us
Instant updates & community
Google News icon
Google News — Follow Us
Get our articles in Google News feed

By Binaifer Jehani and Abbas Master

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and voluntary organisations (VOs) in India need to work on instilling confidence among the public, the government and funding organisations to be able to function effectively.

India has a large number of NGOs, VOs and societies operating in sectors such as education, healthcare, environment and conservation, women and child welfare, disaster relief, human rights, poverty and art.

While a majority of these are concentrated in urban centres, the remaining operate in rural and semi-urban areas, focusing on grassroots development, agriculture, rural healthcare and education.

Some of these entities do follow good practices, such as having a strong management team with experienced professionals on the board, well-articulated vision and mission statements with defined processes, policies and documentation, effective fund utilisation and appropriate impact assessment carried out, and adequate feedback mechanism for beneficiaries as well as donors.

Despite this, and their vital role in addressing social, environmental and humanitarian challenges in the economy, these entities have been in the news lately for various reasons, including compliance and governance issues.

With some of the big names also caught in the legal crosshairs, the sector is battling credibility issues.

These include high dependency on the chief functionary, lack of dedicated human resource, administrative and internal audit departments, limited geographical outreach, undiversified resource mix with high single-donor dependency, limited corporate funding and corporate tie-ups, lack of good governance, low financial proficiency and high susceptibility to sustainability risks.

*****

Accountability and transparency

NGOs manage funds from various sources, including governments, corporates and the public.

It is important that these organisations use the funds responsibly and ensure the impact reaches the vulnerable sections of society.

Transparency and accountability assume significance in this context. Both income and expenditure details should be available in the public domain.

NGOs must publish regular financial reports, and fund utilisation reports, and demonstrate a clear understanding of their goals and objectives.

*****

Compliance with norms

It becomes important to formulate and adhere to relevant compliances, policies and processes in terms of coverage and staff awareness, besides feedback/grievance redressal mechanisms and disclosures on financial reporting and operating performance.

A key regulation governing NGOs is the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), which lays down the ground rules for NGOs to get foreign donations and makes sure the funds they get are used properly and for specified activities only. Thus, adherence to this regulation is critical. 

*****

Evaluating impact, ensuring good governance

NGOs must regularly evaluate the impact of their operations on the society by periodically tracking key metrics such as the number of beneficiaries reached, measurable changes in the community, the sustainability of their initiatives and the outcomes achieved.

The entities must also follow the best practices in governance. Having a well-defined structure, with a top management, key functionaries and legal team, is crucial here.

Only strong and experienced leadership can ensure the organisation is complying with all existing policies and codes, which, in turn, will attract funds, talent and committed volunteers.

Such leadership will also be able to forge strong partnerships with the government and corporates, prioritise strategic planning and adapt to evolving regulatory and economic scenarios to achieve long-term sustainability.

*****

Financial proficiency, operational efficiency

For a VO, it is critical to have an adequate and diversified funding profile, with a mix of donors and fundraising track record, as well as a sound liquidity profile.

Large donors typically prefer NGOs that have sound financial proficiency and maintain all records and documentation.

Therefore, NGOs need to work effectively and efficiently with the resources they have.

NGOs also need to work on well-defined key performance indicators and targets. This will help them ensure proper utilisation of funds, thereby giving comfort to large donors and drawing corporate funding.

It is critical to examine programme implementation, regional engagement and recognition, along with stakeholder involvement.

Capacity building and impact measurement are the other areas that need attention.

*****

Collaborate and grow

The government has undertaken various initiatives and is offering support to help these entities address the challenges.

For sustained growth and impact, however, the players should establish collaborative partnerships with government agencies and private corporations.

Financial discipline, good governance, compliance with relevant norms, adherence to best practices and ensuring transparent functioning are all imperatives in the context. Discipline above all.

*****

About the Authors

Binaifer Jehani – Business Head, Risk Solutions – Assessments & Social Sector Consulting, CRISIL Market Intelligence and Analytics.

Abbas Master – Associate Director, Risk Solutions – Assessments & Social Sector Consulting, CRISIL Market Intelligence and Analytics.

Disclaimer: Views are personal.

CSR Leadership Summit
ADVERTISEMENT
India CSR Awards
ADVERTISEMENT
ESG Professional Network
ADVERTISEMENT
India CSR Image 1 India CSR Image 2
Tags: NGOS

CSR, Sustainability, and ESG success stories
India CSR

India CSR

India CSR is the largest media on CSR and sustainability offering diverse content across multisectoral issues on business responsibility. It covers Sustainable Development, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Sustainability, and related issues in India. Founded in 2009, the organisation aspires to become a globally admired media that offers valuable information to its readers through responsible reporting.

Related Posts

The Social Sector’s Digital Future Hinges on a Leadership Redesign
Articles

The Social Sector’s Digital Future Hinges on a Leadership Redesign

3 days ago
Why E-Waste Is the Silent Environmental Crisis We Can’t Ignore Anymore
Articles

Why E-Waste Is the Silent Environmental Crisis We Can’t Ignore Anymore

4 days ago
CSR
Articles

Beyond Compliance: Why India’s CSR Law Needs an ESG Mindset

4 days ago
How Indian Young Millionaires Driving Evidence-Based Philanthropy
Articles

How Indian Young Millionaires Driving Evidence-Based Philanthropy

6 days ago
PRADAN’s transformative skilling initiatives empower rural young women through education, training, and livelihood opportunities in India.
Articles

Skilling Rural Young Women: PRADAN’s Model for Empowerment, Livelihood, and Inclusion

6 days ago
ESG Reporting - India CSR
Articles

Understanding the Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA): A Journey from Ambition to Dissolution

2 weeks ago
Load More
16th CSR Leadership Summit 2025
ADVERTISEMENT
India CSR Awards
ADVERTISEMENT

LATEST NEWS

Six Categories of Activities That Do Not Qualify as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

CBI Recovers ₹2.62 Crore Cash, Seizes Multiple Properties From NHIDCL Official in Guwahati Bribery Case

Satish Jha: Bridging Education and Technology Through Ashraya’s Human-Centered Innovation

ASSOCHAM President Nirmal K. Minda Pledges to Lead Economic Reforms 2.0 for Viksit Bharat 2047

CSR: Brigade Foundation to Create an Urban Forest Sanctuary in Haralur, North Bengaluru

18 Highlights from PM Modi’s NDTV World Summit 2025 Speech Every CSR and Social Leader Must Know

Ad 1 Ad 2 Ad 3
ADVERTISEMENT
ESG Professional Network
ADVERTISEMENT

TOP NEWS

WOTR Hosts National Roundtable on Land Degradation & Climate Policy

Reliance Industries Minimises Groundwater Use to Just 1% of Total Water Withdrawal in FY 2024-25

Happy Dhanteras 2025: Best Quotes, Wishes, Messages, and Status for Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to Share with Family & Friends

How Indian Young Millionaires Driving Evidence-Based Philanthropy

CSR: Brigade Foundation to Create an Urban Forest Sanctuary in Haralur, North Bengaluru

India-Europe Collaboration Drives Digital and Green Growth

Load More
STEM Learning STEM Learning STEM Learning
ADVERTISEMENT

Interviews

Smita Jatia Chairperson RMHC-India. Image: India CSR
Interviews

Smita Jatia Interview: Inside Ronald McDonald House India’s Compassionate CSR

by India CSR
October 14, 2025

How Ronald McDonald House India Is Transforming CSR from Cheque-Writing to Lasting Compassionate Impact.

Read moreDetails
Ankit Mathur, Co-founder and CEO of Greenway Grameen Infra

Empowering Rural Women in India: An Exclusive Interview with Ankit Mathur, Co-founder and CEO of Greenway Grameen Infra

September 22, 2025
Ashish Aggarwal, Chief Administrative Officer and Head of Corporate Responsibility at Cummins India

Driving CSR Impact in India: An Interview with Ashish Aggarwal, Head of Corporate Responsibility, Cummins India

September 18, 2025
Rajani Jalan, Director, CSR & People Relations, mPokket

Driving Impactful CSR at mPokket: An Interview with Rajani Jalan, Director, CSR & People Relations, mPokket

September 16, 2025
Load More
Facebook Twitter Youtube LinkedIn Instagram
India CSR Logo

India CSR is the largest tech-led platform for information on CSR and sustainability in India offering diverse content across multisectoral issues. It covers Sustainable Development, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Sustainability, and related issues in India. Founded in 2009, the organisation aspires to become a globally admired media that offers valuable information to its readers through responsible reporting. To enjoy the premium services, we invite you to partner with us.

Follow us on social media:


Dear Valued Reader

India CSR is a free media platform that provides up-to-date information on CSR, Sustainability, ESG, and SDGs. We need reader support to continue delivering honest news. Donations of any amount are appreciated.

Help save India CSR.

Donate Now

Donate at India CSR

  • About India CSR
  • Team
  • India CSR Awards 2025
  • India CSR Leadership Summit
  • Partnership
  • Guest Posts
  • Services
  • ESG Professional Network
  • Content Writing Services
  • Business Information
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Donate

Copyright © 2025 - India CSR | All Rights Reserved

No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • Corporate Social Responsibility
    • Art & Culture
    • CSR Leaders
    • Child Rights
    • Culture
    • Education
    • Gender Equality
    • Around the World
    • Skill Development
    • Safety
    • Covid-19
    • Safe Food For All
  • Sustainability
    • Sustainability Dialogues
    • Sustainability Knowledge Series
    • Plastics
    • Sustainable Development Goals
    • ESG
    • Circular Economy
    • BRSR
  • Corporate Governance
    • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Interviews
  • SDGs
    • No Poverty
    • Zero Hunger
    • Good Health & Well-Being
    • Quality Education
    • Gender Equality
    • Clean Water & Sanitation – SDG 6
    • Affordable & Clean Energy
    • Decent Work & Economic Growth
    • Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
    • Reduced Inequalities
    • Sustainable Cities & Communities
    • Responsible Consumption & Production
    • Climate Action
    • Life Below Water
    • Life on Land
    • Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
    • Partnerships for the Goals
  • Articles
  • Events
  • हिंदी
  • More
    • Business
    • Finance
    • Environment
    • Economy
    • Health
    • Around the World
    • Social Sector Leaders
    • Social Entrepreneurship
    • Trending News
      • Important Days
      • Great People
      • Product Review
      • International
      • Sports
      • Entertainment
    • Case Studies
    • Philanthropy
    • Biography
    • Technology
    • Lifestyle
    • Sports
    • Gaming
    • Knowledge
    • Home Improvement
    • Words Power
    • Chief Ministers

Copyright © 2025 - India CSR | All Rights Reserved

This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this website you are giving consent to cookies being used. Visit our Privacy and Cookie Policy.