What is SNS?

Satark Nagrik Sangathan (SNS) or Society for Citizens Vigilance Initiatives (SCVI) is a registered citizens’ group with a mandate to promote transparency and accountability in government functioning and to encourage active participation of citizens in governance. It was set up in 2003 and is an independent non-governmental organization. SNS is not affiliated to or supported by any political party.

The key strategy of SNS has been to assist people exercise their Right to Information (RTI) using tools like the National RTI Act and the Delhi RTI Act. SNS runs an information center in Malviya Nagar in Delhi.

 What are the objectives of SNS?

SNS’s endeavour is to empower individuals to fight corruption and the arbitrary exercise of power and participate in the effective utilization of public funds. It also helps them engage with the government on issues of policy formulation and implementation.

SNS seeks to encourage citizens’ participation in governance and helps citizens:

• use tools such as the National Right to Information Act 2005 and Delhi Right to Information Act to keep themselves informed about the various activities of the Government;
• use the information obtained to monitor functioning of their elected representatives and the working of the government departments
• participate in planning the allocation of public funds to ensure that funds meant for the welfare of citizens are spent on activities that are considered important by them.

 Activities

SNS works closely with residents of both low-income slum settlements and high income colonies in Delhi. SNS uses the Right to Information Act as a tool to enable citizens to actively participate in governance.

We assist people use the Right to Information Act for obtaining information on the performance of their elected representatives, on the functioning of the government in areas such as the Public Distribution System, Education and on expenditure of public funds on civic works like road maintenance, sanitation, and laying of water and sewage pipes.

SNS encourages local citizens use this information to monitor the functioning of their elected representatives and the working of the government departments to ensure delivery of public services in their areas.

 How is it funded?

SNS is supported by grants from Sir Dorabji TATA Trust, Society for Rural, Urban & Tribal Initiatives (SRUTI) and by donations from individuals. The activities of the Sangathan are carried out by volunteers and full time workers who draw a monthly stipend.

How can you contribute?

As a people’s movement, SNS endeavors to involve as many citizens in the initiative as possible. If you would like to be associated with SNS, you can:

• Contribute time and ideas as a volunteer
• Help spread the message of SNS
• Make financial contributions towards the movement