current-affairs-based-mains-drill-21-september-2020

 

Q) Discuss the recent amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) and the need for such amendments. (250 words)

Why this question?

  • The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2020, was introduced in the Lok Sabha. 

Introduction:

  • Between 2011 and 2019 the central Government had to cancel certificates of registration of more than 19,000  NGOs or associations registered under the FCRA  for violations such as mis-utilisation of foreign contribution etc.

Body: Discuss the following aspects

  • About FCRA
  • Recent amendments: As per the amended FCRA rules -
    • NGOs now need to file their annual returns online, with the hard copy version dispensed with. 
    • The annual returns must be placed quarterly on the NGO’s website or the FCRA website maintained by the home ministry.
  • Need for amendments: Ensuring transparency, better regulatory compliance

Conclusion: Conclude with the way forward