NGOs go for image makeover

The Telegraph, Guwahati, Aug 8 2007

Undaunted by the charges of alleged nexus with rebel outfits and misappropriation of funds, NGOs in the Northeast have pledged to rebuild their images and carry on their work to reach out to more people across the region.

Joining them in their endeavour is the UK-based Resource Alliance, a non-profit group, which, along with various non-governmental organisations, attended a seminar today.

The seminar on Capacity Building of NGOs stressed to promote good standards and practices in resource mobilisation, accountability and transparency among various NGOs of the region.

Guwahati-based Shishu Sarothi, the centre for rehabilitation and training for multiple disabilities, is the Northeast co-ordinator for Resource Alliance.

“This is out first experience in the region. We are very impressed by the works that were exhibited during the seminar today. We are concerned about the allegations levelled against the NGOs of the region. The fact is that because of a few incidents, the entire fraternity has come under the scanner. But the ground reality is different. Many NGOs of the region are doing good work, but because of a few instances, all the NGOs have been tarnished,” said Neelam Makhijani, Programme Director of the New Delhi Branch of Resource Alliance.

She added, “Our thrust is to give a new lease of life to the NGO movement in the region and usher in growth and development.”

Resource Alliance also announced its India NGO Award and invited entries from NGOs in the Northeast. This is the first time that entries from Northeastern NGOs have been invited for the Award, which aims to develop the country’s non-profit sector by promoting financial and organisational stability, and strengthening community support of civil society.

The seminar at length discussed various issues confronting the NGOs during their discharge of work, especially because most of the areas are inaccessible and infected by militancy.

Samhita  Baruah, member of North East Network, a non-profit group that is working for women empowerment in remote corners of the region, said NGOs had to fight harsh conditions to reach out to the people.

“We seek everyone’s cooperation to help us realise out dreams,” said Baruah.