We live here in the world’s oldest
and well functioning democracy whereas India is the largest democracy in
the world. We enjoy ample opportunities here just as India offers excellent
opportunities to its citizens. However, a good governance structure allows
us here to grab the opportunities and contribute to prosperity, whereas the
poor governance structure in India leads to wasting of these opportunities.
More than anybody else, we - the non-resident Indians – can understand
and appreciate the value of good governance. This is not to say
that what works in US will work the same way in India. Culture and history
do influence the perceptions and practices of democracy. But fundamental rights
and principles of democracy and good governance are fairly universal, though
the statutory ways in how they are achieved can be tailored to suit the local
circumstances, needs, and sensitivities.
FDRI’s approach in promoting governance reforms:
- In US, FDRI works primarily with institutions and individuals
interested in India to promote awareness of the need
for governance reforms in India. FDRI also forms local chapters where feasible
to develop volunteer base and organize awareness campaigns.
- In India, FDRI works with mature, registered,
non-profit organizations that are working towards governance reforms in
India.
