Training on Governance and NGO Compliance was Held in UP–Rajasthan

Agra, Uttar Pradesh, November 23, 2025: A specialised training programme on governance, legal compliances for Trusts and Societies, NGO management, and organisational strengthening brought together Church leadership from the Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan region for two days in Agra. Held on 20 and 21 November 2025, the workshop gathered 38 participants, including Vicars General, Procurators, Councillors, Directors of diocesan institutions, and members of various religious congregations, alongside representatives from the Diocese of Gwalior.

The sessions were led by Fr. Dr. Anil William Crasta of the Diocese of Gulbarga, a nationally recognised trainer known for his expertise in Governance, CSR, NGO Law, and Organisational Development. With more than 25 national-level trainings delivered across India, he is noted for making complex legal and governance frameworks accessible and practical for Church institutions.

A Call to Reinforce Mission Through Strong Governance

Dr. Albert D’Souza, Archbishop Emeritus of Agra, opened the programme by reminding participants that every form of social ministry must “bear the face of Christ and continue the mission of Jesus with integrity and compassion.” He underscored the need for charitable works to uphold Gospel values while remaining transparent, accountable, and mission-focused.

The workshop was organised under the leadership of Fr. Johnson, Regional Forum Director for the UP–Rajasthan region, who coordinated the participation of diocesan offices, social ministries, and religious congregations.

Core Focus: Constitution, Mission, and Compliance

Drawing from both pastoral experience and professional training, Fr. Dr. Crasta led participants through a comprehensive social analysis of the Church’s mission in today’s socio-political context. He addressed challenges such as public scrutiny, funding pressures, and rising compliance demands from government agencies.

He highlighted how the Indian Constitution calls for an equitable and just society and encouraged participants to reflect on the alignment between constitutional values—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity—and Catholic social teaching. He emphasised the critical role Church institutions play in advancing these principles at the grassroots level.

Strengthening Credible and Compliant NGOs

A significant part of the programme focused on building stronger Church-managed NGOs, Trusts, and Societies. Fr. Crasta explained the distinctions between Trusts, Societies, and Section 8 companies and guided participants on:

Governance standards and board responsibilities
NGO constitutions and by-laws
Human resources, marketing, fundraising, and finance
Accountability and transparency mechanisms
Statutory compliance frameworks
CSR funding expectations
FCRA requirements and financial reporting norms
Documentation for legal and donor audits

Interactive discussions allowed participants to raise concerns regarding governance structures, board roles, and their legal duties. Fr. Crasta addressed these queries comprehensively, enabling clearer understanding and confidence in managing Church-affiliated organisations.

A Step Forward for Regional Church Governance

Participants expressed appreciation for the timely training, noting its relevance amid tightening regulations and increasing expectations from government bodies and funding agencies. The workshop concluded with a renewed regional commitment to ensure that Church initiatives remain mission-oriented, legally compliant, socially accountable, and professionally administered.

Training on Governance and NGO Compliance was Held in UP–Rajasthan

Latest News