I am obliged and thank PM, says philanthropist beggar

Chandigarh, May 31 (IANS) A 40-year-old physically challenged beggar in Punjab, whose philanthropy spirit found mention in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday, said he was obliged.

Homeless Raju, who lives in Pathankot town, caught the Prime Minister’s attention for distributing 3,000 masks and providing ration to 100 poor families during the lockdown.

He has donated his savings of Rs 1 lakh to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. He has no family and begs for a living.

Polio stricken Raju told the media that he was happy that Prime Minister Modi noticed and appreciated his gesture. “I am obliged and thank PM for this,” he said

According to media reports, he donated Rs 100,000 that he earned by begging for ration and masks.

“I am always willing to help the needy. During the lockdown, I donated all the money that I collected by begging,” he said.

Locals say earlier Raju, who moves in a hand-powered wheelchair, donated Rs 15,000 for the repair of a road portion here to minimise accidents. Also he provided financial assistance for solemnising the wedding of poor women.

–IANS

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