In India, NGOs can categorize into different types based on their size, geographic scope, thematic scope, sector focus, and type of incorporation. A recent news article that appeared in February 2014 in the Times of India confirms that India has one of the highest numbers of NGOs registered in the world. Read the article here.
How many types of NGO’s are there in India?
1. TYPE OF NGO IN INDIA BASED ON SIZE:
Based on the spread and resources, an NGO can be classified
Large organizations. Large full time paid staff. Multinational bodies. Branch offices in several countries. E.g., Oxfam, International committee or the Red Cross, Medecins Sans Frontieres
2. TYPE OF NGO BASED ON GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE
The main features are:
Take on both global and local issues Focus on a specific country, region or issue
3. THEMATIC SCOPE
The main features are:
Primarily concerned with the environment/ human rights/social issues/other Could be campaigning groups, watch-dog organizations Could be concerned with education, Emergency relief, and Reactive priorities, or emergency prevention and proactive priorities. Could focus on single or broader, multi-issue portfolio
4. CLASSIFICATION OF NGO’S BASED ON SECTORS IN WHICH NON GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS WORK
• Age care (care for the aged/Older persons) • Agriculture • Animal Welfare • Art & Craft • Child Education • Cities/Urban Development • Community Development • Culture & Heritage • Disability • Disaster Management • Education • Environmental issues • Health & Hygiene • HIV/AIDS • Housing & Slums • Population • Poverty Removal • Rural Development • Science & Technology Development • Tribal people • Waste Management • Drinking Water • Women
5. Type of NGO based on Registration / Incorporation
Based on registration an NGO may be classified as a Trust, Society, or Section 25 company in India. Registration under different acts means that different provisions and benefits will apply to the various organizations.
