September 2025

Introduction Networking and alliance building are important strategies used by voluntary organizations (VOs) to improve their reach, impact, and effectiveness. In rural development, collaboration between VOs enhances resource sharing, knowledge exchange, and collective action. Key Features of Networking and Alliance Building Information Sharing: Helps in sharing data, research, and success stories across organizations. Capacity Building: […]

Introduction Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) can be classified based on the type of work or tasks they perform. This classification helps in understanding their areas of focus, roles, and functions in society. Typology of NGOs Based on Tasks Charitable NGOs: Focus on providing relief, welfare, and basic services like food, clothes, and shelter. Service NGOs: Offer

Introduction Voluntary Organizations (VOs) in India can be either registered or unregistered. While registered VOs have legal recognition and follow formal procedures, unregistered VOs operate informally. Despite lacking legal status, many unregistered VOs actively contribute to rural development and community welfare. Main Characteristics of Unregistered VOs No Legal Status: They are not registered under any

Introduction The Voluntary Action Cell is a dedicated unit within the Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog) of India, established to promote and support voluntary organizations (VOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It acts as a facilitator between the government and civil society and ensures coordination, transparency, and better implementation of development programs through VOs. Main Functions

Introduction Barefoot College is a well-known voluntary organization based in Tilonia, a village in Rajasthan, India. It was founded in 1972 by social activist Bunker Roy. The college focuses on rural development through education, training, and empowerment of poor and marginalized communities, especially women. It is based on the belief that solutions to rural problems

Introduction The Community-Based Organization (CBO) approach is a participatory development strategy where local people form and manage their own institutions to improve their socio-economic conditions. In India, the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) has effectively implemented the CBO approach, especially in rural and tribal areas. AKRSP, established in 1983, is a non-governmental organization that

Introduction Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS) is a renowned non-governmental organization based in Rajasthan, India. It was founded in 1975 by Rajendra Singh, popularly known as the “Waterman of India.” TBS has played a significant role in reviving traditional water management systems and improving watershed development in rural areas. Its efforts have not only brought water

Introduction The Global Donor Platform for Rural Development (GDPRD) is an international alliance of development agencies and financial institutions that work together to support sustainable rural development and agriculture. Formed in 2003, the GDPRD brings together more than 40 bilateral and multilateral donors, foundations, and international organizations. It aims to harmonize aid, promote knowledge sharing,

Introduction Voluntary Organizations (VOs) play a crucial role in the development of society, especially in rural areas where government outreach may be limited. Recognizing their importance, the Indian State has developed various funding mechanisms to support and strengthen these organizations. These funds help VOs in implementing programs related to education, health, women empowerment, environment, rural

Introduction Mahatma Gandhi played a key role in shaping India’s freedom movement, not just politically, but also socially and economically. His ideas on voluntarism and rural reconstruction have had a lasting impact on the development landscape of India. Gandhi believed in empowering rural communities through voluntary action and self-reliance. During the freedom struggle, he emphasized