The Hon’ble Prime Minister
Government of India
Prime Minister’s Office
South Block, Raisina Hill
New Delhi – 110011

Respected Sir,

During this second wave of COVID-19, hospitals, societies, and trusts(“NGOs”) in India have been receiving offers from foreign sources (both organizations and individuals) regarding the donation of medical equipment, accessories, medicines, etc. in kind for emergency use. This is because there is a lot of sympathy around the world for our country as we collectively fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

In spite of the dire need and urgency for such support, NGOs are unable to accept the much-needed aid from international bodies as most of these entities are not registered under the FCRA, without which they cannot receive any donation or contribution in cash or in kind.

Individuals, associations, and companies are required to have the FCRA Certificate – as per the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 (FCRA) and the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Act, 2020 – in order to accept foreign contribution.

Thereby Inspite of there being compelling necessity, willingness, and an urgency to receive the aforementioned support/donations from various sources including those located abroad, Such NGOs have not been able to accept any form of benefit through donations or receipt of medical equipment and other accessories due to the present FCRA regulations that restrict acceptance of any form of ‘foreign contribution’ in currency or in kind from any ‘foreign source’ directly & indirectly without obtaining registration under the FCRA from The Ministry of Home Affairs.

The FCRA was enacted with the sole objective to regulate the acceptance and utilization of foreign contribution by certain individuals, trusts, societies, etc. for any activities which can be detrimental to the national interest.

At this point in time and given the gravity of the situation, receiving foreign contribution in kind in healthcare and medicine has become a dire need. It should not prove to be detrimental to the national interest, especially when only medical material and supplies are sought to be received in India by the NGOs that don’t have the FCRA Certificate.

This is a fervent appeal to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India to intervene and allow the NGOs to accept medical support, material, and supplies without the requirement of registration under FCRA for a limited period, so that, on the one hand, the shortage of medical equipment, medicines, etc. can be effectively tackled, and, on the other, common people all over the country are able to benefit from the generous aid and support.

Yours Sincerely

Citizens of India