Answer:

Introduction:

The case study highlights the challenges faced by well-meaning individuals and NGOs in undertaking social service projects due to cumbersome government procedures, delays, and corruption.

Body:

To ensure that due control is exercised over voluntary social work without thwarting well-meaning and honest NGO efforts, the following measures can be suggested:

1.  Streamline Procedures: Simplify and streamline the processes and procedures for obtaining necessary permissions and clearances from government agencies. This can be done by reducing paperwork, introducing online application systems, and clearly defining the required documentation.
2.  Transparent and Accountable Governance: Promote transparency and accountability within government agencies by implementing strict monitoring mechanisms and grievance redressal systems. This can help curb corruption and ensure that officials adhere to ethical practices.
3.  Timely Response and Efficient Service Delivery: Establish clear timelines for the processing of applications and ensure that government agencies respond promptly to NGO requests. This can help minimize delays and discourage officials from demanding bribes due to prolonged waiting periods.
4.  Training and Sensitization of Government Officials: Provide comprehensive training programs to government officials on the importance of voluntary social work, the role of NGOs, and the need for a supportive and facilitative approach. Sensitize officials to the challenges faced by NGOs and encourage a positive attitude towards their initiatives.
5.  Establishing a Single Window Clearance System: Introduce a centralized system where NGOs can submit their applications and obtain clearances from multiple government agencies through a single point of contact. This can simplify the process and reduce the scope for corruption.
6.  Regular Audits and Monitoring: Conduct regular audits and monitoring of government agencies to ensure compliance with regulations and to identify and address instances of corruption or bureaucratic hurdles faced by NGOs.
7.  Collaboration and Partnership: Foster collaboration between government agencies and NGOs through public-private partnerships. This can facilitate better coordination, exchange of expertise, and joint efforts in addressing social issues.

Conclusion:

By implementing these measures, the government can strike a balance between necessary control over voluntary social work and facilitating the efforts of well-meaning and honest NGOs, thereby encouraging more individuals like Saraswati to engage in social service projects.

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