'Foreign-based individuals, organizations can donate to PM CARES': Govt sources

Donations to recently launched PM CARES fund from "individuals and organizations that are based in foreign countries" will be accepted, government sources have clarified amid confusion over foreign contributions to such trusts. Sources told ANI that such donations are consistent with India’s policy with respect to Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) and Fund has received foreign contributions as a public trust since 2011.

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clarification comes a day after Centre decided to set aside its long-held policy of t accepting foreign aid in case of calamities and disasters, to allow contributions from abroad to Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM CARES) Fund to combat COVID-19 pandemic. India has consistently declined foreign aid following natural calamities for over a decade.

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Sources referred to a statement made by Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson for Ministry of External Affairs, way back on August 22, 2018, that said: "In line with existing policy, Government is committed to meeting requirements for relief and rehabilitation through domestic efforts. Contributions to Prime Minister's Relief Fund and Chief Minister's Relief Fund from NRIs, PIOs (Persons of Indian Origin) and international entities such as foundations would, however, be welcome."

That statement was made in wake of devastating 2018 Kerala floods. A controversy had erupted over acceptance of foreign donations towards state’s relief and rehabilitation operations after Centre declined  UAE's offer to assist Kerala.

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PM CARES Fund

With India battling Coronavirus pandemic which has rattled global ecomy and put nearly a third of mankind in some form of a lockdown, PM Narendra Modi has set up a charitable trust — PM CARES — where citizens, corporates, organisations and just about anyone else can contribute funds towards relief effort. PM is Chairman of this trust. Or members of trust include Defence Minister, Finance Minister, and Home Minister.

(With ANI inputs) (PTI photo)

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