No hurdles in NGOs getting foreign donations: Patil

New Delhi, Apr 17 (UNI) Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil today assured that the government will not create any hurdles in NGOs getting donations from abroad but asked them to maintain transparency and keep an account of expenditure.

Addressing a three-day National Meet on 'Advantage Rural India' organised by the Confederation of NGOs of Rural India here, Mr Patil said the NGOs working in the spiritual, religious, health and education fields were flushed with funds but cautioned those working in the field of religion not to use it for dividing people but work for national unity.

He said that NGOs receiving foreign donations should keep an account of all their expenditure and inform the authorities in time so that they did not face unnecessary hurdles in getting them.

He said the government could discontinue their funds channel if the NGOs did not keep their records transparent.

He stressed the need for NGOs to remain focused in their direction and policies and said they could play a crucial role in providing relief during natural calamities and also help the government in reaching to the people at the grassroot level in remote and tribal areas where government machinery was lacking.

He appreciated NGOs coming together and making Confederations to help the society, especially the poor and downtrodden.

Mr Patil assured all help from the government in making them realise their goal.

On the occasion, the Home Minister presented Servants of Poor Awards to 12 social workers working in the rural areas.

UNI AJ RR HT1938