Center imposes strict restrictions on receiving foreign donations; Tightens FCRA rules 

NEW DELHI: The home ministry has tightened restrictions on non-governmental organizations (NGOs) receiving foreign funds. The law amending the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) rules of 2011 in this regard has come into force.

The amendment states that NGOs receiving foreign funds must provide detailed information to the government about their activities and clarify in which states the money is spent. From now on, it will not be possible to seek permission for foreign donations by citing only the general objectives and activities of the organization. Permission for registration will be granted only by citing any one of the 105 types of activities in five categories - religion, culture, economy, education and social.

For example, 18 activities are allowed, such as construction and renovation of places of worship of religious groups and printing of holy books.

In addition, acts of conversion are also prohibited. Political activities are also restricted in some areas. Currently, all organizations with FCRA registration must accurately inform the area and states in which they operate within one year. If the organization operates in more than one state, an additional amount must be paid for FCRA registration.