Hope for Survivors

CARE TODAY was set up by the INDIA TODAY Group in August 1999 to help the victims of the tragedies that take place around us. It provides readers an opportunity to contribute for a cause with the knowledge that their donation is being used judiciously.

In the past 16 months, CARE TODAY has helped lighten the burden of those affected by tragedies like the Kargil War, the Orissa supercyclone and the drought. The Lest We Forget programme adopted 28 soldiers disabled during the Kargil War and provided them financial support to begin life afresh. Under the Hope For Orissa programme, houses were built for 100 of the poorest widows, while 106 orphans are being taken care of with support from CARE TODAY. Last year, the society's Fight the Drought fund helped villagers in Gujarat and Rajasthan take up rain harvesting measures.

The earthquake that struck Gujarat on January 26 this year has left a trail of death and destruction. What were entire townships are now stony graveyards. In Bhuj, almost no building has been left standing. The loss of lives has been unprecedented; estimates of the toll in the state range from 30,000 to one lakh. Property worth Rs 23,000 crore has been damaged, most beyond repair.

Government-led relief operations are under way but such is the extent of devastation that they may not suffice. Lakhs of houses have to be built, millions have to be fed. CARE TODAY intends to intervene in the worst-affected regions. Kutch district is a prime candidate for the society's support. CARE TODAY proposes to:

• Ensure the survival and security of the poorest families in the quake-hit area by providing them food.
• Fund the rebuilding of shelters, schools and healthcare centres in the worst-affected areas
• Engage the survivors in income-generation activities, which would ensure sustenance in the long term.

We seek your support for such an endeavour. Readers will be kept updated on our activities and the progress achieved through the pages of INDIA TODAY. All contributions will be individually acknowledged and donations of Rs 5,000 and above listed in the magazine.

Please make out cheques/drafts to: "CARE TODAY Fund A/C Rebuilding Gujarat Fund", INDIA TODAY,Hamilton House, 1A Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001. All contributions to CARE TODAY are entitled to deductions at the rate of 50 per cent under Section 80(G) of the Income Tax Act, 1961.