31/07/2024
Why the best thing to do right now is to donate as much as or what little we can to the CMDRF at the moment, rather than organise collection drives or to donate materials:
1. Contrary to what some people have been spreading, the CM’s Distress Relief Fund is a reliable and transparent fundraising mechanism accountable to the public. Unlike the opaque PM Care Fund. The Opposition and the can keep track of how it is spent. Chances of misuse are virtually nil.
2. Money can be used to meet all material needs that arise in the disaster stricken region, including medical needs and to pay for rescue and recovery operations. It can be used according to what the situations demand. However, random collection of materials can either turn out to be inadequate or lead to wastage.
3. Transportation of relief material to disaster stricken areas from far off places are risky considering the current weather conditions, will cause inconvenience amidst the ongoing rescue activities and is impractical considering the cost of logistics and the carbon emissions. It is more practical donate money to source required material from nearby locations, where all essential materials and supplies are adequately available.
4. It eliminates chances of frauds in the name of providing relief.
5. Donations to CMDRF are 100% tax exempt under Section 80 G of the Income Tax Act.
6. Smooth flow of funds is essential for effective disaster management and rescue and relief operations. Getting funds on time can save more lives and provide better relief to the affected.
7. It puts tax funded government machinery to good use.
We are all human. We all want to help. It’s best to do it in a unified, accountable and efficient manner. 🙏🤝🫶