Akshaya Patra Articles

 Every year on 27 February, World NGO Day is celebrated globally to recognise the invaluable contributions of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) towards social progress, humanitarian causes and sustainable development. In India, where NGOs play a pivotal role in addressing various societal issues, the day holds special significance, marked by a multitude of events and initiatives aimed at fostering positive change.  Understanding the history of this significant day sheds light on its evolution and underscores the importance of acknowledging the pivotal role played by NGOs worldwide. The inception of World NGO Day dates back to 2010 when the IX Baltic Sea NGO Forum, held in Lithuania, proposed the idea of establishing a day to celebrate the invaluable work of NGOs across the globe. The initiative gained traction and was subsequently endorsed by the Baltic Sea NGO Network. The first World NGO Day was celebrated on 27 February 2014, marking the culmination of years of advocac...

 “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill  Inspiration can take different shapes. The nonprofit sector as a whole is immensely inspiring and those associated with it are making a significant difference in the lives of the communities they serve all over the world. By making an online donation or offering your time to an NGO of your choice, you can further contribute to this altruistic system and support those in need. Most NGOs will struggle to effectively complete their missions without the help of volunteers. Including volunteers in an NGO’s operations can greatly enhance its value and help the organisation accomplish its goals and mission. At a personal level, serving as a volunteer for an NGO can be a fulfilling and satisfying experience. It gives one the ability to positively impact other people's lives and give back to the community in a meaningful way. Through volunteering, a person can develop new abilities, meet people and...

 Donating to charity is a noble gesture and also paramount to a nation’s sustainable development. It enables those with limited opportunities to lead better lives and transcend socioeconomic boundaries. Donations for resources like mid-day meals, clean water, shelter, education and medical care also actualise the donor’s belief in an inclusive society where everyone enjoys equal rights and productively contributes to their nation’s growth. Thus, countries worldwide promote such constructive charitable contributions by allowing tax deductions on them. In India, Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961 permits taxpayers to claim a deduction on their donation to registered non-profit organisations and certain relief funds. This clause has noteworthy benefits that eventually fan out from the taxpayer to the entire nation.  Benefits of Section 80G Giving = Saving Giving to those in need becomes more rewarding with provisions like Section 80G. It not only uplifts the donor emotionall...

 The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) landscape has evolved beyond a mere business concept, transforming into a strategic imperative for companies. Recognising the potential synergy between Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and corporations, this collaboration presents a distinctive CSR opportunity. By aligning interests, these partnerships contribute to sustainable development and societal well-being. Planning CSR Activities Unlocking the CSR opportunity requires a systematic approach to planning. Identifying common goals between NGOs and corporations is paramount. Open communication and a shared understanding of societal challenges lay the groundwork for targeted and effective collaboration. Through need assessments, both parties leverage their strengths to tailor initiatives that make the most of the CSR opportunity, ensuring a purposeful impact. Identification of Common Goals The journey begins with identifying shared values and common goals. Open communication and a m...