UPSC Mains 2025 GS Paper 2 Question Paper
Q. Civil Society Organizations are often perceived as being anti-State actors than non-State actors. Do you agree? Justify.
Introduction
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are non-state, voluntary institutions working between state and society, but their advocacy roles often lead to the perception of being anti-state actors.
Why CSOs are Perceived as Anti-State Actors
- Rights-based activism
- CSOs frequently challenge government actions on human rights, environment, and governance.
- Example: activism against projects affecting tribal rights and environmental protection.
- Public interest litigations (PILs)
- NGOs approach courts against government policies.
- Example: Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India strengthened the Precautionary Principle in environmental governance.
- Criticism of policy decisions
- CSOs question government actions in areas like land acquisition, civil liberties, and development projects.
- Foreign funding concerns
- Restrictions under Foreign Contribution Regulation Act due to fears that some NGOs may influence domestic policy through external funding.
- Political narratives
- Governments sometimes view activism as obstruction to development projects.
Why CSOs are Actually Non-State Actors Supporting Governance
- Democratic accountability
- CSOs act as watchdogs, strengthening transparency and rule of law.
- Service delivery support
- NGOs assist in healthcare, education, and rural development where state capacity is limited.
- Policy advocacy and reform
- Civil society played a major role in shaping laws like
- Right to Information Act
- National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
- Social mobilization and awareness
- CSOs promote gender equality, environmental awareness, and community participation.
- Disaster management and welfare delivery
- NGOs support government during natural disasters and pandemics through relief and community networks.
- Constitutional values promotion
- CSOs advance fundamental rights and participatory democracy.
Institutional Recognition of CSO Role
**1. Second Administrative Reforms Commission
- Recommended greater partnership between government and civil society in governance.
**2. NITI Aayog
- Launched NGO-DARPAN portal to facilitate state-civil society collaboration.
Conclusion
While activism may create the perception of CSOs as anti-state, in reality they function as essential non-state partners that enhance democratic accountability and participatory governance.
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