Nonprofits in India Face Stricter Guidelines as the Government Tightens Contribution Regulations

A new law was signed in India in September 2020 that has tightened the already restrictive Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). The act, originally formulated in 1976, was designed to control the political impact made by non-governmental organizations (NGOs)—like The Tide® ministry, which broadcasts the Gospel message in local languages around the world—and has since gained more control of the nonprofits established in the country.
The key changes to the amendment include restrictions to the transfer of money between NGOs, which negatively affects possible collaboration; restriction of administrative expenses to 20 percent of contributions; control over the type and number of bank accounts allowed to organizations and increased investigative power of government officials.
Although the FCRA has tightened restrictions, and COVID-19 still threatens the health of people everywhere, the Tide ministry is continuing its life-altering mission through radio broadcasts and related activities in India, working to spread Christ’s hope and wisdom to believers as well as those who may be far from Christ or not yet introduced to His love and grace. The Tide ministry broadcasts 12 different programs in 11 different languages across the region of India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
“The Tide ministry has been honored to share the Gospel in India,” said The Tide Director Don Shenk. “It is edifying to hear from listeners who are touched by the content of the programs. It is amazing when we hear from unbelievers that they have been uplifted or are now putting their faith in Christ after listening to The Tide radio broadcasts.”
As a way to follow up with listeners who respond to the programs throughout India, The Tide ministry distributes literature and Bible study courses to help them develop a lasting relationship with the Lord. A listener named Debasaa wrote to say, “Thanks for sending your literature and Bible Correspondence Course to me. After I completed the Bible Correspondence Course, I have learned more about God the Creator Jesus Christ and His life and Salvation, etc. I have surrendered my life to Jesus Christ and accepted Him as my personal savior.”
In partnership with native missionaries, The Tide ministry has been instrumental in bringing many around the world, including those in India, into a relationship with Jesus Christ and establishing healthy, growing indigenous churches.