India releases USD 2.5 million to UNRWA, continues support for Palestinian refugees

New Delhi, July 16: The Indian government has 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, according to a press release from the Representative Office of India in Ramallah. This funding supports UNRWA’s efforts to provide essential services and relief to Palestinian refugees amidst ongoing challenges, including the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.

The UNRWA, established in 1950, plays a crucial role in delivering direct relief and essential services such as education, healthcare, and social services to registered Palestinian refugees. Despite the difficulties posed by the current conflict, UNRWA continues to strive for the welfare of these refugees.

The Representative Office of India in Ramallah emphasized on X (formerly Twitter): "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."

India has a longstanding commitment to supporting Palestinian refugees. Over the years, it has provided a total of USD 35 million to UNRWA until 2023-24. This financial aid has been instrumental in sustaining the agency's core programs, which include education, healthcare, and social services for Palestinian refugees.

In addition to its financial contributions, India announced during the recent UNRWA Pledging Conference in New York that it would also supply medicines to UNRWA based on specific requests from the agency. Furthermore, India reiterated its call for the safe, timely, and sustained delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine.

India’s continued support highlights its commitment to humanitarian aid and the welfare of Palestinian refugees in difficult times.