Introduction
Voluntary organizations (VOs) are crucial to India’s social and economic development, bridging gaps left by government initiatives. Two key players in this sector are:
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CAPART (Council for Advancement of People’s Action and Rural Technology)
VANI (Voluntary Action Network India)
This blog post explores:
CAPART’s rural development programs and funding schemes.
VANI’s advocacy for NGO rights and policy reforms.
Their impact on grassroots organizations and marginalized communities.
Whether you’re an NGO professional, researcher, or social worker, this guide offers actionable insights into India’s voluntary sector.
What is CAPART?
CAPART is an autonomous body under India’s Ministry of Rural Development, established in 1986 to support voluntary organizations in rural development.
🔹 Social Work Material – Essential guides and tools for practitioners.
🔹 Social Casework – Learn client-centered intervention techniques.
🔹 Social Group Work – Strategies for effective group facilitation.
🔹 Community Organization – Methods for empowering communities.
Key Objectives
Major Programs
| Program | Focus |
|---|---|
| Public Cooperation (PC) | Empowering marginalized groups through participatory projects. |
| Advancement of Rural Technology (ARTS) | Training in sustainable farming, renewable energy, and handicrafts. |
| Disability Action (DA) | Community-based rehabilitation for persons with disabilities. |
| PM Rural Development Fellowship | Stipends (₹50,000/month) for young professionals working in rural areas. |
Regional Presence: CAPART operates through 9 regional offices (e.g., Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Hyderabad).
What is VANI?
VANI, founded in 1988, is India’s apex body for voluntary organizations, advocating for NGO rights and policy reforms.
Key Initiatives
National Policy for Voluntary Sector (2007): Drafted with the Planning Commission to strengthen NGO-government collaboration.
Voluntary Action Day (March 12): Raises awareness about the sector’s role.
FCRA Advocacy: Lobbied against mass cancellation of NGO foreign funding licenses.
Publications
Handbook on Good Governance for NGOs
Laws and Regulations for the Voluntary Sector
Supporters: CARE India, Oxfam, ActionAid.
How CAPART and VANI Empower NGOs
1. Funding & Capacity Building
CAPART provides grants for NGOs (up to ₹25 lakhs per project).
VANI offers training on governance, transparency, and advocacy.
2. Policy Advocacy
VANI negotiates with ministries (e.g., Home Affairs) on FCRA rules.
CAPART aligns NGO projects with government schemes (e.g., watershed development).
3. Grassroots Impact
CAPART’s TRTCs (Technology Resource Centers) train farmers in organic farming.
VANI’s networks connect 3,000+ NGOs for collective action.
Challenges & Future Directions
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Funding dependency | Diversify revenue (CSR partnerships, crowdfunding). |
| Regulatory hurdles | Simplify FCRA compliance with VANI’s guidance. |
| Grassroots coordination | Strengthen CAPART’s regional committees. |
Emerging Trends:
Digital advocacy (e.g., social media campaigns).
Corporate-NGO collaborations under CSR.
Conclusion
CAPART and VANI are pillars of India’s voluntary sector, driving rural innovation and policy reform. Their work highlights the power of collaboration between NGOs, government, and communities.
Call to Action:
NGOs: Explore CAPART’s funding schemes.
Readers: Share your NGO experiences in the comments!
