Grassroots India

In order to carry forward the GIT in next 3 years, it was emphasized to draw a Strategic Plan for years 2008-11. The organization needs to follow the Strategic Plan.

Organization Structure
Board of Trustees will remain the apex body to govern the organization in accordance of the powers and duties of the Trustees entrusted in M. P. Public Trust Act 1951. There should be an Executive Committee (EC) comprising the Executive Director, Managers and Coordinators with Chief Executive as head of Executive Committee. Currently, the Executive Director holds position of head of Executive Committee. He would continue till someone else takes over as Executive Director or the Board of Trustees takes alternative decision in due course of time. Viewing the sizable role of Strategic Partners in the functioning of GIT at filed level, there is a need of constitution of Strategic Partners Committee (SPC) represented by heads of field based partner organizations. The SPC will assist the EC in operation and functioning at field level. It is also essential to constitute an Advisory Committee (AC) for which various experts and specialists should be identified and approached for membership. Role of AC would be of guidance and advice.

Strategic Partnerships & Collaborations
Since early 2006, the GIT evolved relationships with field-based organizations in order to deliver functions at local level. It happened mainly with Shri Gandhi Seva Ashram in Sarguja (Chhattisgarh) and SHARA in Kullu (Himachal Pradesh). Scanty functional relationship also developed with Santal Education Trust in Jamatara (Jharkhand) and Samvedna Integrated Development Association in Panna (Madhya Pradesh). Apart from continuing to strengthen relationships with these 4 organizations, the strategic partnerships will be finalized with Nav Bhartiya Nari Vikas Samiti in Ballia (Uttar Pradesh). A mutual agreement has to be made with all of them. There will be joint operation of projects on the basis of share resources, responsibilities and benefits. In addition to above 5 strategic partners in 5 different provinces, the collaborations can be made with other field-based NGOs e.g. PARA in Mandi (HP). Some projects need to be taken up in Delhi to carry out at macro level; they can or cannot be collaborated.

Special Operations & Branch
Under Resolution-2A passed in 2005, the GIT has been operating ‘Grassroots Institute’ for the purpose of research and trainings. Trainings being conducted under the banner of Grassroots Institute so far and the research undertaken should be considered the academic progress of the Grassroots Institute. However, it is decided to let the Grassroots Institute establish separately in Himachal Pradesh. It shall be registered as Society in Kullu or Mandi district. Till the new Society attains 3 years age, or becomes eligible for funding, the GIT would continue supporting the Grassroots Institute under its Resolution-2A. When the new Society becomes self-reliant completely, the Resolution-2A will be suspended.

Since the majority of field projects are operational in Himachal Pradesh, it is discussed and decided to open a full-fledged Branch of GIT in Hiamchal Pradesh to base in Kullu district. This HP Branch of GIT would function as independent unit of GIT for Himachal Pradesh. The reports and accounts of Branch would be consolidated with GIT’s main programmatic and financial reports. The Branch can independently apply for funding.

Programmatic Plans
The following thematic areas are to be pursued during 3 years.

Work on the theme of ‘Communication in Development’ will be taken up separately in Grassroots Media Initiative. If the projects come on conservation/ protection of environment, a theme matching the nature of work would be added.

Fundraising Strategy
Project bidding to foreign donors/supporters was principal method of fundraising employed so far. The following methods will be introduced/ strengthened now onwards:

Project bidding to Indian and Foreign Donors
Project bidding to selected Ministries of Govt. of India
Project bidding to selected Embassies in New Delhi e.g. of Netherlands, Japan, Finland, Sweden (Sida), Norway (NORAD), Switzerland (SDC), Ireland (Irish Aid), Australia (AusAID), Canada (ICCO), BHC, New Zealand (NZAID), Germany (GTZ), France.
Donation raising from business companies through letters, e-mail
Website fundraising
Registering with Giving portals like Give India, Giving Global, or other CSR groups.
Introducing the Payroll in some organizations on experimental basis.