Background
Overview
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) is an Indian law enacted to regulate the acceptance and utilization of foreign contributions or hospitality by individuals, associations, and companies. Administered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), its primary objective is to ensure that foreign funding does not adversely affect national interest, sovereignty, or public order.
UPSC cares about FCRA due to its critical role in national security, transparency in funding, regulation of civil society, and the balance between state control and fundamental rights. It reflects the government's approach to foreign influence and internal governance.
Key facts
Foreign Contribution
Any donation, delivery, or transfer of any article, currency, or security by a foreign source.
Foreign Source
Government of any foreign country, foreign company, foreign trust, foreign citizen, etc.
Association
An association of persons, whether incorporated or not, having a definite object.
Prior Permission
Required for entities not registered under FCRA but wishing to receive a specific foreign contribution for a specific purpose.
Registration
Granted to associations having a definite cultural, economic, educational, religious, or social program, enabling them to receive foreign contributions on a continuing basis.