Voluntary Action in Rural Development

Introduction Voluntarism is the practice of offering services or taking actions by choice, without being paid or forced. It is based on the belief that individuals and communities have a moral duty to help others and improve society. Meaning Voluntarism means working for the welfare of others on a voluntary basis. It includes actions like

Introduction Weisbrod’s approach is an economic theory that explains the role of non-profit organizations in filling gaps left by the government and private sectors. Developed by economist Burton Weisbrod, the theory is widely used to understand why voluntary and non-profit organizations exist and thrive in society. Key Points of Weisbrod’s Theory Public Goods Gap: Government

Introduction Bureaucratic administration refers to the traditional system of governance through fixed rules, hierarchy, and standardized procedures. While it ensures order and consistency, it also faces several limitations, especially in the context of rural development. Major Limitations Rigid Structure: Lack of flexibility makes it difficult to respond to local or urgent issues. Delay in Decision-Making:

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