India Boosts Support for Palestinian Refugees with $2.5M Donation

The Government of India has released US$ 2.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). 

This contribution is part of India's annual commitment of US$ 5 million for the year 2024-25, aimed at bolstering UNRWA's core programs and services. These services include vital education, healthcare, relief, and social services for Palestinian refugees.

India's unwavering support for UNRWA is underscored by this latest financial aid. Since increasing its annual contribution from US$ 1.25 million to US$ 5 million in 2018, India has steadily provided substantial assistance to the Agency. 

As of the end of the 2023-24 fiscal year, India has contributed a total of US$ 35 million to UNRWA's core programs, reinforcing its dedication to the welfare of Palestinian refugees.

At the recent UNRWA Pledging Conference in New York, India not only reaffirmed its financial commitment but also announced plans to provide medicines to UNRWA based on specific requests from the Agency. 

Additionally, India emphasized the necessity for a safe, timely, and sustained supply of humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people.

India's support extends beyond financial contributions to UNRWA. The country has provided approximately US$ 141.2 million in various forms of economic assistance to Palestine. 

This includes developmental assistance worth US$ 70.6 million and US$ 39 million in budgetary support to the Palestinian Authority. 

Among India's significant development projects are a Techno-park, three schools, a Women Empowerment Centre, a National Printing Press, two ICT Centres, two Vocational Training Centres, and several Quick Impact Projects. 

Furthermore, India has delivered 70 tons of humanitarian aid for Gaza to the Egyptian Red Crescent at El Arish Airport, in two tranches on 22 October and 19 November 2023.

India's robust support for Palestine through UNRWA and other initiatives highlights its commitment to aiding Palestinian refugees and contributing to regional stability and development.