Engaging in any charitable act reflects your humane, responsible and compassionate side.
Often, we get so busy in the hustle-bustle of life that we overlook people who need our support. While we focus on tending to our everyday responsibilities and fulfilling our duties, we miss nurturing the compassionate and benevolent side in our lives. This is when non-profit organisations come into play. NGOs are non-government groups that work at the grassroots level to bring about a sustainable and tangible change in the community, society or the nation. The work of such organisations include tackling issues related to empowerment, environment protection, social development, education, health, poverty, hunger and similar other issues. Hence, by engaging with such NGOs by supporting them as a volunteer, knowledge partner, goodwill ambassador or donor, you can create a huge impact.
Given the significant roles that an NGO plays, the government of India encourages individuals and corporates to engage with and donate to charitable organisations.
The Income Tax Act of the Government of India supports charitable contributions made towards philanthropic organisations. According to Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, financial contributions made towards a registered charitable organisation qualify for tax exemption. The deciding factor to identify whether the donor receives 100% exemption or 50% exemption, depends on the registration of the charitable organisation.
Your Tax deductible donations have five benefits:
- It supports the beneficiary NGO in its operations, helps in the sustenance and expansion of its service.
- Positively influences and impacts the lives of beneficiaries.
- Reiterates the values of compassion and generosity. It also instils a sense of ‘giving back to society’.
- Uplifts the community on the whole by imbibing awareness, responsibilities, and being a part of the solution for numerous issues at hand.
- Makes the benefactor eligible for tax exemption.
NGOs understand the worth & power of every rupee. They ensure that the funds are utilized in the right manner
No matter what cause the NGO fights for, every little support from you will be valued and looked forward to. Hence, you can support an organisation depending on the cause you deeply connect with. For example, if you want to provide health and education to children coming from challenging socio-economic backgrounds, you can support not for profit organisations like The Akshaya Patra Foundation. It is one of the pioneer NGOs in India that started implementing the Government’s Midday Meal Programme. The Foundation provides nutritious school lunch to children in government and government-aided schools since 2000 for the last 21 years.
Currently, Akshaya Patra provides regular midday meals to 18,00,907 children studying in 19,039 schools across 60 locations of 14 States and 2 Union Territories of India. When you donate to this NGO:
- You make nutritious food accessible to school children, support their education while helping them progress towards their dreams and goals.
- Midday meals contribute towards overall development by enhancing children’s concentration. It also improves their performance in academics and participation in co-curricular activities.
- These meals improve attendance and reduce the drop-out rate of children, thereby ensuring continuity in education.
- You create a lasting impact in the lives of young, determined, and aspirational children who are willing to go beyond their financial situations.
- You become eligible to receive tax exemption on your donated amount (applicable for an online donation of ₹500 and above).
Akshaya Patra is considered among the best NGO in India to donate to, given the cause it works for and the diligence in its financial transparency.
In conclusion, your one moment to make a contribution and show your compassion can bring a phenomenal difference to society. So, as you go about fulfilling your responsibilities, do attend to your benevolent side too!
