KOCHI: In an arguably pathbreaking move, non-governmental organisations (NGO) in the state, are to be given accreditation. The move is part of the Social Justice Department’s efforts to roll out an NGO policy and to carry out various welfare schemes.
The accounting procedure, area of specialisation and credibility of the NGOs will be looked into before they are given accreditation. Tata Institute of Social Sciences’ (TISS) Thiruvananthapuram centre has been entrusted with the task and it has started the work in this regard.
The accreditation is also aimed at making the functioning of the Rehabilitation Homes under the Department more transparent and effective. “It is a pretty complicated process to undertake any philanthropic activity at the homes. It needs permission,including legal sanction each time to carry out free food distribution or assist the physically challenged inmates.
“Once an NGO is accredited it will be given an identity card and the formalities can be done away with,” said Aby George, TISS centre coordinator.