Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010
Framework and Controversies
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 (FCRA) regulates the acceptance and utilisation of foreign contributions by Indian individuals, associations, and companies, to prevent such contributions from adversely affecting India's national interest, sovereignty, or democratic processes. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) administers FCRA registrations. Key provisions include: mandatory registration for NGOs receiving foreign funds; a designated SBI, New Delhi account for receiving foreign contributions; prohibition on sub-granting to non-FCRA entities; and a 20% cap on administrative expenses (amended from 50% in 2020).
- FCRA 2010: replaced Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 1976
- Nodal ministry: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
- 2020 FCRA Amendment (No. 33 of 2020): (i) mandatory SBI New Delhi branch account; (ii) ban on sub-granting; (iii) admin expense cap reduced from 50% to 20%; (iv) Aadhaar mandatory for NGO office-bearers; (v) government power for "summary enquiry" to suspend FCRA registration
- FCRA registration: valid for 5 years, renewable
- Exemptions: political parties, government bodies, specified institutions (like universities) have different rules
● Tracked since March 25, 2026 · last seen August 10, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes