India releases initial tranche of $2.5 million to UNRWA for Palestinian refugees

The Indian government has sent the first tranche of $2.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) as part of its annual contribution of USD 5 million for the year 2024-25, an official statement said.

The Representative Office of India on July 15 in a post on X (formerly Twitter) said, "The Government of India released the first tranche of USD 2.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), as part of its annual contribution of USD 5 million for the year 2024-25."

"Over the years, in its endeavour to support the Palestinian refugees and their welfare, India has provided financial support to the tune of USD 35 million till 2023-24 for the UN agency's core programs and services, including education, healthcare, relief and social services provided to Palestinian refugees," it said.

Over the years, India has given financial aid totaling $35 million till 2023-24 for the United Nation's core programs and services that assist Palestinian refugees.

The UNRWA has continued its direct relief and works programs for registered Palestinian refugees since 1950. It is still making efforts to keep up its functioning in the middle of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

India also announced that in addition to financial assistance, it will provide medicines to UNRWA based on the agency's specific request.

During the recent UNRWA Pledging Conference held in New York, India reaffirmed its call for a safe, timely and sustained supply of humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine.

The voluntary contributions from UN member states almost entirely funds UNRWA.