Note from Paresh Tewary, Chief Executive Officer, VANI

Civil Society at large and members of VANI have always believed that Governments need to have interaction with people and be directed by consultative thought processes. For, governments wanting to do the right things get hampered in doing them without the active support of people. Civil society always wants to engage the governments so that governments have clear standards of governance with respect to what is non-negotiable and how these standards are implemented in case of violations. It wants to see that instead of resources only flowing in for use of force, energies and resources address the conditions that lead to the situations requiring use of force.

We are one and yet why is it that some do not feel themselves a part of this one –ness. True that basic services across India are not being appropriately delivered. Be it roads, electricity, water, security; be it law, judiciary or civil services. We are the 25th most malnourished country in the world. Precisely because of these, every moment is an opportunity to strengthen and nurture accountability and participation in how we are governed. Its an opportunity to together bring about a change across and at all levels.

Civil Society in India has always stood up to this challenge, it has a record of engaging with the government to constructively bridge the gaps in building responsive institutions, delivering and ensuring delivery. Civil society knows that if property is damaged it is theirs – the tax payers property. Civil society knows if across this country someone suffers – no matter what region, language, socio-economic background – its and Indian, its a human being that suffers.

We stand in solidarity with each other for better understanding and appreciation of our roles in the welfare of us all. We must stand united to see that civil society succeeds. Each factor of faith, language and ethnic depth is an asset. This blending has led to and would lead to greater individual and collective prosperity.

On another level for our consideration attached is a NOTE : IMPACT OF FINANCE ACT 2008 ON BUSINESS ACTIVITIES OF NGOs. Please do share your responses.