Editorial

On 27 February, India joins the global community in observing World NGO Day 2026, a moment to recognise the indispensable contribution of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to development, democracy, and social empowerment. In a country as vast and diverse as India, NGOs have long functioned as the connective tissue between policy intent and grassroots reality.

From rural education and public health to women’s empowerment, environmental protection, disability rights, and disaster relief, NGOs fill critical gaps where state capacity may be stretched. They innovate locally, respond swiftly in emergencies, and often work in geographies that are administratively challenging. During crises—be it pandemics, floods, or humanitarian emergencies—civil society organisations have repeatedly demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and compassion.

In the development narrative of India, NGOs have not merely implemented welfare initiatives; they have shaped discourse. They have advocated for transparency, accountability, and inclusive growth. Many landmark social reforms and welfare policies have roots in sustained civil society engagement. By amplifying marginalised voices, NGOs strengthen participatory democracy and ensure that governance remains responsive.

However, the sector also faces challenges. Regulatory compliance under evolving legal frameworks, funding constraints, and increasing scrutiny have reshaped the operational environment. Transparency and accountability are essential—public trust is the cornerstone of civil society legitimacy. Yet, regulatory oversight must strike a balance: it should ensure compliance without stifling innovation or discouraging genuine grassroots efforts.

World NGO Day offers an opportunity for introspection as much as celebration. NGOs themselves must continue to strengthen governance practices, adopt digital transparency tools, and ensure measurable impact. Collaboration with government agencies and the corporate sector—especially through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives—can create sustainable partnerships that multiply developmental outcomes.

India’s demographic diversity and socio-economic complexity require multi-stakeholder engagement. The government alone cannot address every micro-level challenge. NGOs, community-based organisations, and volunteer networks serve as bridges—linking citizens to institutions and translating policy into lived reality.

As India advances toward its developmental goals, the role of civil society will remain vital. World NGO Day 2026 is not merely a ceremonial observance; it is a reminder that development is a shared responsibility. Recognising NGOs means recognising the countless volunteers, social workers, educators, healthcare providers, and activists who work quietly beyond headlines.

In celebrating NGOs, India celebrates the spirit of collective action—where compassion meets organisation, and ideals are transformed into measurable social change.

The recent controversy surrounding an alleged error in the judiciary chapter of the Class 8 Social Science textbook published by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has sparked a necessary national debate. At the heart of the matter lies a simple but serious question: how can inaccuracies enter foundational educational material meant to shape young minds?

Textbooks are not ordinary publications. They are instruments of civic education. For millions of students across India, NCERT books are considered authoritative sources of knowledge. When a chapter dealing with the judiciary—a pillar of constitutional democracy—contains factual or conceptual errors, the implications extend beyond academic oversight. They touch upon institutional credibility and public trust.

Education is not merely about information; it is about shaping understanding. A flawed or misleading explanation of the judiciary risks distorting students’ comprehension of constitutional values, separation of powers, and rule of law. At a formative age, clarity and precision are non-negotiable. Any compromise here can create confusion that lingers long after school years.

The controversy also raises broader concerns about the editorial and review mechanisms within NCERT. Textbook development must pass through rigorous academic scrutiny, peer review, and fact-checking. If such safeguards failed in this instance, it signals a systemic lapse rather than an isolated mistake. Public institutions must be held to higher standards, especially when entrusted with national curricula.

Critics argue that textbook revisions in recent years have increasingly attracted political debate. Whether or not ideology played a role in this specific error, perception matters. Educational institutions must maintain visible neutrality and transparency. The absence of clear communication from NCERT regarding how the error occurred—and what corrective steps are being taken—only fuels suspicion.

To be fair, errors in textbooks are not unprecedented, and corrections are part of the publishing process. However, accountability requires more than issuing a quiet erratum. It demands openness about review protocols, timelines for correction, and mechanisms to prevent recurrence. If students are expected to learn the principles of responsibility and rule of law, institutions must model those very principles.

The judiciary, as an independent branch of government, occupies a central place in India’s democratic architecture. Any misrepresentation—intentional or accidental—can undermine civic literacy. In a time when democratic institutions globally face scrutiny, strengthening constitutional education is essential.

The NCERT controversy should serve as a wake-up call. Rather than descending into partisan blame, this moment must be used to strengthen academic standards. Transparent review processes, involvement of independent subject experts, and public disclosure of corrections can restore confidence.

Education builds nations. When textbooks falter, the credibility of the educational system falters with them. The response must therefore be swift, transparent, and institutionally responsible.

• SAS Kirmani