Voluntary action, civil society and the state

This book is about voluntary action in India. It has been pre pared to describe and analyse the history, evolution and chal lenges facing voluntary association and civil society in India today. It aims at providing an insight into the dynamics of the relationship between voluntary action and the government. The book also identifies and elaborates upon the emerging requirements of capacity building of voluntary organisations in India. Leaders of voluntary organisations, donors, govern ment officials and policy makers, academics and students will, therefore, find this book of interest.

The roots of voluntary action in India go back in history. Many religious persuasions have been born in India; many others have been nurtured and supported on Indian soil throughout history. One precept which is common to all major religions is that people should work for the well-being of oth ers. All religious scriptures provide guidelines, prescriptions and suggestions for followers to contribute to the well-being of society (Dadrawala, 1991).

Hinduism is the dominant religion in India, practised by over 80 per cent of the population. The Hindu concept of Dharma which entails a code of moral and social behaviour, including concern for all other human beings, is one of the most important pillars of Hindu philosophy. There are also several other religions followed by smaller but significant num bers of people; some like Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism are indigenous and offshoots of Hinduism, while others like Is lam and Christianity came from outside. Whatever their reli gious practice, in every one of them contribution to society is mandatory for their followers. The concept of dana (volun tary giving) has been the cornerstone of the spirit of voluntarism in India.