Thank you readers!

Deccan Herald and Prajavani thank the readers, public and private institutions for their overwhelming response to our call seeking generous contributions to help victims of the two devastating earthquakes that hit Nepal recently. 

On Thursday, Deccan Herald’s Political Editor Shekhar Iyer handed over a cheque for Rs 2,00,33,910 from the Deccan Herald-Prajavani Relief Fund to Minister of State in Prime Minister’s Office Dr Jitendra Singh. 

Singh received the cheque on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The money will go into the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for helping earthquake victims in the neighbouring country. The contributions, therefore, qualify for Income Tax exemption under appropriate provisions of the law.

Receiving the cheque, Singh appreciated the role of Deccan Herald and Prajavani, describing it as unique and exemplary for the cause of the victims of natural disasters.

He said the magnitude of the disaster was such that the government alone was never in a position to render all assistance and efforts of the people contributed in a big way to render timely assistance.

“We deeply appreciate the efforts of Deccan Herald and Prajavani and their readers in this regard,” said Singh. 

The media as such has always played a big role in providing succour to the people affected by the earthquake by their coverage of the extent of devastation and by providing information on missing people, the minister said. 

“But when the media went beyond just in-depth coverage like Deccan Herald and Prajavani did, it motivated the people to contribute whatever they can to help victims. The media’s role enlarged to become a relief provider by boosting efforts of other agencies,” he added.