India’s spring 2021 COVID-19 surge witnessed an outpouring of aid from the international community. However, significant regulatory barriers – most notably India’s Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) – obstructed the humanitarian response, preventing non-profits, including hospitals, civil society groups, and charitable trusts, from being able to accept oxygen, medical equipment, donations, and other critical supplies. 

This short briefing looks at the impact of funding barriers on the pandemic response.

For more on the FCRA, see our resources hub page.