3 Review(s)

The history of NGOs in India is long as it has been at the core of Indian culture, the Sanatan Tradition to serve the poor, the suffering the helpless and the needy. However, the spirit of charity and altruism also guided the voluntary action of man in the past in diverse ways and forms even outside the formal established religious structures and channels. India has witnessed an enormous spate of NGO activity in the post independence era, especially in the eighties and nineties. The current work that has been carried out on three levels i.e. Himachal Pradesh Voluntary Health Association (HPVHA), Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti (HGVS) and Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA) offers tremendous insight into the organization, role and functioning of NGOs in the state of Himachal Pradesh. They have played a significant role in the socio-political and economic development of the state and the study under lines the major achievements and challenges faced by them. The work is first of its kind in Himachal Pradesh and would definitely benefit and inspire further research and interest in the area among the social workers, scholars and related officials.Dr. Raj Kumar Jishtu is currently Principal (Off.) at D. A. V. Centenary College Kotkhai, Shimla. Having a long service record of 30 years Dr. Jishtu specialises in organizational studies and human rights. He has served in various capacities as Dean of Examinations, Convenor of several committees, Chief Editor of a magazine and UGC coordinator at the college and Himachal Pradesh University level. Having participated in several national and international conferences and seminarsDr. Jishtu is currently President of Shimla Lions Club and member of several social service groups in Shimla. He also works as literacy ambassador for Bharat Literacy Mission since 1989 and Project Coordinator under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna at NAC Kotkhai, Shimla.