Maharashtra Becomes First State To Get FCRA Nod For CM Relief Fund, Paving Way For Foreign Donations

In a landmark decision, the Union Government has granted permission to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF) of Maharashtra to accept contributions from foreign donors under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA). This move is expected to significantly boost the fund’s capacity to assist the poor and those affected by natural disasters. Maharashtra is the first state in the country to receive such approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs. The state government had earlier submitted a written request seeking clearance to raise foreign contributions for social welfare initiatives.

Rameshwar Naik, head of the CM Relief Fund Cell, informed The Free Press Journal, “Charitable organizations in India often receive foreign donations for social, educational, and cultural work, but compliance with FCRA norms is mandatory to avoid financial irregularities. Since the CM Relief Fund is registered as a charitable trust under the 1950 Mumbai Public Trusts Act, obtaining this permission was necessary.”

Naik highlighted that this approval opens the door for donations from Indian companies abroad, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), and multinational corporations operating in Maharashtra. “This is a major achievement. Many multinational companies and NRIs had expressed willingness to contribute to the CM Relief Fund. Now, their path is clear,” he added.

He also emphasized the impact of the fund, stating, “The CMRF has been instrumental in saving lives and supporting people during times of crisis. With Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis taking a personal interest in the fund’s operations, this development will further enhance its outreach.”

Additionally, in 2025, the Union Government approved foreign donation permissions for 244 institutions across India, including 41 organizations from Maharashtra. This marks the first time that the CMRF has been allowed to raise funds from foreign sources.

The fund regularly provides aid during calamities such as earthquakes, floods, and droughts, as well as financial support for critical medical treatments for underprivileged citizens. Due to the increasing demand for such assistance, the need for international funding had become urgent.

Between May 1, 2024, and April 30, 2025, the CM Relief Fund disbursed ₹206.35 crore in medical assistance to 23,813 patients.

With this new approval, the fund is expected to grow substantially, enabling it to support a greater number of people in need. The move also aligns with the corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals of many domestic and international companies, allowing them to contribute a share of their profits towards social welfare through the CMRF.