Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play an important role in a country like India with limited state capacity. Given India’s low rankings in human development indicators and vulnerability to environmental degradation, a number of NGOs are working in related areas to improve outcomes. While some are engaged in delivering social services to the vulnerable sections of the population, others provide research inputs to nudge the state to act in a certain way. NGOs and voluntary organisations also played a vital role in extending relief during the Covid-19 pandemic. Though the government recognises the role being played by such organisations, it has tightened