Prime Minister of India - Dr. Manmohan Singh

Prime Minister's Appeal

My Fellow Citizens,

You are all aware that an unprecedented natural calamity has wreaked death and destruction in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the States of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Pondichery and Tamil Nadu. Thousands of people have died in this disaster caused by a tsunami wave triggered by an earthquake. We have all seen pictures of agony, pain, trauma and of the dislocation of life and loss of property. We have also been witness to the tragedy in our neighbouring countries including the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Thailand.

The government will do whatever is required and expected of it to provide relief and assist in rehabilitation. I am sure each one of us will voluntarily extend help and support to the best of our ability. It is at times like these that the best in us comes out and the human spirit transcends all adversity.

I appeal to all citizens to strengthen the hands of our Government in dealing with this tragedy and donate generously to the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Manmohan Singh

Payment may be made by cheque or draft in the name of "The Prime Minister's National Relief Fund" and sent to the Prime Minister's Office, South Block, New Delhi 110011. As per directions on the subject the nationalised banks are not to charge any commission on preparation of drafts favouring the PMNRF.

Contributions can also be made directly at the branches of all banks in the country.

Donations can also be sent through Money Orders with no commission chargeable. Contributions to the PMNRF have been notified for 100% deduction from taxable income under section 80(G) of the Income tax act.