PM-CARES fund akin PMNRF for foreign donations; rejections on per-case basis: Sources

dressing rumourmongering around foreign donations for PM CARES fund, government sources said that this move is consistent with India's policy with respect to Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF). PM CARES fund was reportedly set up following spontaneous requests from India and abro for making generous contributions to support government in its fight against COVID-19.

Clearing air, government sources told Republic that PM CARES fund will simply accept donations and contributions from individuals and organisations based in foreign countries. Furr, clarifying that this is in line with PMNRF, which has also received foreign contributions as a public trust since 2011. 

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Recalling what official spokesperson said on August 22, 2018, source said, "In life 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 and international entities such as foundations would, however, be welcome."

India to accept foreign donations

Government sources said a decision was taken to accept contributions from abro to Prime Minister's Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM CARES) to deal with pandemic.

"In view of interest expressed to contribute to Government's efforts, as well as keeping in mind unprecedented nature of pandemic, contributions to Trust can be done by individuals and organisations, both in India and abro," said a source. It said fund was set up following spontaneous requests from India and abro for making generous contributions to support government in its fight against COVID-19.

On Saturday, Modi anunced setting up of PM CARES fund. prime minister is chairman of trust and its members include defence minister, home minister and finance minister. Political leers, corporates, defence personnel, employees of PSUs such as Railways and Bollywood personalities were among a cross-section of organisations and people who have anunced ir contribution to fund.

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(With PTI inputs)