Tax Relief Offered for Donations to Ram Mandir Construction
The construction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya has been a historic event for the people of India. And now, taxpayers have the opportunity to contribute to this monumental project while also benefiting from tax deductions under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, established by the Government of India in February 2020, oversees the development and maintenance of the temple, and it allows taxpayers to make contributions towards the construction while availing tax benefits.
The official announcement from the Central Government declares Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra as a site of historical significance and public worship. According to CBDT Notification, 50 per cent of voluntary contributions made for the renovation or repair of the temple to Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra is eligible for deduction under Section 80G (2) (b) of the Income Tax Act, 1961. However, individuals who opt for the new tax regime are not eligible for this benefit.
In order to contribute and avail the tax benefits, individuals can visit the official website of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and use payment gateways, UPI/QR codes, NEFT, IMPS, demand drafts, and cheques. It’s important to note that cash donations exceeding Rs 2,000 are ineligible for deduction. Additionally, the trust provides donation receipts instantly for online transactions, while other methods require verification before issuing the receipt.
Opinion on the topic:
The announcement of tax relief for donations to the construction of the Ram Mandir has sparked mixed reactions. While some individuals appreciate the opportunity to contribute to such a significant project while also benefiting from tax deductions, others argue that the government should focus on providing tax benefits for other charitable causes as well. They believe that tax relief for donations should not be limited to a specific religious project, but should be available for contributions to all charitable organizations. Nonetheless, the tax relief offer has brought attention to the importance of supporting the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.