VANI is an apex network of Voluntary Organisations which works on the thematic issues concerning good governance in the voluntary sector, Strengthening Networks, articulating independent voices of the sector and research and advocacy of policies and laws affecting the voluntary sector.  We understand that to be effective in the development scenario and also to become important voice, there is need to further collectives in the sector.

State networking: VANI has its associated state networks in Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. There are informal networks are in Orissa, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, North Eastern states and Tamil Nadu. VANI plans to start organizing state conventions to discuss issues specific of that state. In 2009-2010 VANI has already organized such convention in Gujarat, M.P., Bihar, UP, Uttaranchal, and Chhattisgarh.  Every state in the country has some problems which are specific to that state only and need to be eradicated through specific means only. VANI’s networks across the state have been organized keeping this reality in mind. The objective of these would be to play a role of convening and networking to act as the platform for voluntary organizations within and outside India.

VANI will also strengthen its networks to take up the issue of preparing state policies for Voluntary Sector. This will include interaction with state government in one hand and educating and motivating voluntary agencies on the other. In 2009-2010 meetings were organised in Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, North East (Guwahati), Bihar, Chattisgargh and Gujarat. During these consultations 13 state level Task Groups were formed, which have taken the responsibility of formulate/drafting the state policy on voluntary sector. Each task group comprises of 8-9 prominent people from within the state.

Through its state networks VANI will organize studies and interactive events in various states. In the current scenario the voluntary sector is facing a lot of new challenges related to regulations and policies and concerns related to its future sustainability. There is lack of awareness about the policies and issues among organisations which are adversely affecting the sector. VANI being the independent voice aims to channelise networks (national/ state) in building the image of the sector, sharing information and capacity building of the smaller VOs. There is a need highlight the social contribution that the sector has been making since ages in the lives of million of people and community and focus on building partnerships with other stakeholders especially the government, private sector and media.