The government of India deeply appreciates offers from several countries to assist in relief and rehabilitation efforts after the tragic floods
Two former advisors of former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Thursday said that while a decision was taken by the previous UPA government not to accept foreign participation in relief, it was decided to accept it in long term rehabilitation case by case. "If memory serves, the 2004 decision was to not accept foreign participation in relief but accept it for long term rehabilitation case by case. No rescue teams needing hand-holding and interpretation but yes to help rebuilding houses, bridges, roads etc. A way forward for Kerala?," tweeted former National Security Advisor (NSA) Shiv Shankar Menon. He said the 2004 decision was only limited to not allowing foreign rescue, and was not about aid.
Sanjay Baru, media advisor to Manmohan Singh said that UPA government was open to accepting aid for reconstruction in disaster-hit areas. The decision was only about not involving foreign agencies in "immediate rescue operations".
"Developmental aid rules were changed during Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government. What Manmohan Singh said in 2004 was to block the presence of foreign agencies in the country as part of the foreign aid," Baru said. "There is nothing that stops the government from accepting aid from foreign countries. Kerala needs long-term rehab and they will need this financial assistance. What is wrong in accepting their (UAE) help?" he said.
Baru also cited the "unique relationship" between the Gulf and Kerala. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), home to around 2.8 million expatriate Indians, most of whom hail from Kerala, had offered Rs 700 crore.
"The government of India deeply appreciates offers from several countries to assist in relief and rehabilitation efforts after the tragic floods," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in response to queries. "In line with the existing policy, the government is committed to meeting the requirements for relief and rehabilitation through domestic efforts," Kumar said. "Contributions to the Prime Minister's Relief Fund and the Chief Minister's Relief Fund from NRIs, PIOs and international entities such as foundations would, however, be welcome."
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