In what ways can the role of NGOs be enhanced in promoting women's empowerment and welfare in India? Discuss, with a focus on the key challenges they encounter.
In short
NGOs' role in women's empowerment can grow through easier FCRA compliance, partnerships like Mission Shakti, capacity building, transparent accounts, diversified CSR and microfinance funding, and scaled-up One-Stop Centres and legal aid. They face patriarchal resistance, a digital divide (only about 30% of NGOs use digital tools well) and restrictive funding.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 247 words
Legal Recognition and Partnerships
Simplifying NGO registration and easing FCRA compliance post-2010 can improve fund flows; Mission Shakti’s engagement with NGOs in Andhra Pradesh3 exemplifies effective government-NGO collaboration.
Capacity Building and Accountability
Training programs inspired by the Towards Equality Report and SEWA’s digital literacy initiatives enhance NGO effectiveness; transparent audits address funding misuse concerns.
Patriarchal Resistance and Digital Divide
NGOs face societal pushback in rural leadership roles; only 30% use digital tools effectively, necessitating targeted digital infrastructure and training.
Funding and Advocacy
Dependence on restrictive funds limits scale; SEWA’s diversified funding model offers resilience; NGOs confront structural barriers, as the 15-year delay before the Women’s Reservation Act, 2023 showed.
Legal and Educational Support
Scaling One-Stop Centres and Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya promotes survivor aid and girls’ education.
Economic Empowerment and Networks
Schemes like Mudra Yojana, supported by NGOs, foster entrepreneurship; federations like MAKAAM strengthen collective advocacy.
Digital Empowerment and Funding
Initiatives using UMANG and dedicated government funds can boost NGO capacity.
Policy Reforms and Sensitization
Amending FCRA and scaling community gender awareness programs will enhance NGO autonomy and impact.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2025 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.