The article opens with the story of an acid attack survivor who has approached the Delhi High Court in pursuit of increased compensation from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). This move brings to light the various hurdles and delays victims often face when attempting to access such grants.
A Brief History of the PMNRF
The PMNRF was established back in 1948 by India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. The primary aim of this fund at that time was to provide much-needed assistance to individuals displaced from Pakistan during the partition period.
Over the years, the scope of the PMNRF has broadened considerably. Today, it serves as a vital financial resource for citizens affected by both natural and man-made disasters.
Aid for Natural and Man-Made Disasters
Natural calamities like floods, cyclones, and earthquakes can cause catastrophic damage, leading to massive loss of life and property. To aid victims of these disasters, the PMNRF steps in, providing necessary financial support to help them rebuild their lives.
Similarly, the fund also extends support to those affected by man-made catastrophes, such as major accidents, acid attacks, and riots. The case of the acid attack survivor approaching the Delhi High Court for additional compensation is an example of this category.
Public Contributions Drive the PMNRF
Contrary to what some might assume, the PMNRF does not receive any support from the state budget. Instead, the entire corpus of the fund is derived from contributions made by the public. This effectively makes every citizen a potential stakeholder in the PMNRF and its operations.
These public contributions are primarily saved in fixed deposit accounts across various banks. The interest accrued on these deposits forms the principal source of funding for disbursements from the PMNRF.
Prime Minister’s Role in PMNRF
Another notable aspect of the PMNRF is the significant role played by the Prime Minister. As the key decision-maker when it comes to disbursements, the approval of the Prime Minister is vital for releasing funds to affected individuals and groups.
Tax Benefits for Donors
All contributions made towards the PMNRF also offer substantial tax benefits to donors. As per Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961, these donations are eligible for a 100% deduction from taxable income. This serves as an additional incentive for the public to contribute towards this noble cause.
This broad overview of the PMNRF not only sheds light on its functioning but also highlights its critical role in providing financial support to disaster-stricken citizens. The ongoing case of the acid attack survivor seeking additional compensation gives us a glimpse into the challenges faced by victims and underlines the need for continued public support to enhance the efficacy of the PMNRF.
