President, PM, MPs To Take 30 Per Cent Pay Cut For A Year In Fight Against Coronavirus Pandemic

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, other cabinet ministers and Members of Parliament (MPs) will take a 30 per cent pay cut for the coming year in a bid to fight the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19). Also, President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and governors offered to take the 30 per cent cut in salaries for the coming year.

It is to be noted that the Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi cleared an ordinance on Monday to cut salaries of MPs and ministers by 30 per cent for one year. According to a report from NDTV, the cabinet also suspended the funds allocated under MP local area development scheme (MPLADS) for two years which stands around Rs 7,900 crore. The amount will be transferred into the government's consolidated fund.

During the press conference, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar stated that President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and governors have offered to take the 30 per cent cut in salaries. “This is a landmark decision that sends the right signals,” Javadekar said.

The Union Minister also explained that an ordinance was required since salaries of MPs and other dignitaries were determined by law. “Charity begins at home,” he added.

The death count in India has reached over 109 due to the outbreak of novel coronavirus in the country. According to the latest update, as many as 4067 cases of coronavirus has been reported in India so far. Maharashtra is the most affected state due to coronavirus, with death count rising to 12 and positive cases going up to 320.

Also Read: Coronavirus: PM Narendra Modi Chairs Cabinet Meeting Via Video Link For First Time Ever

It is worth mentioning here that the novel coronavirus, which originated in China, has claimed thousands of lives across the world. Over 9.5 lakh people have been infected with the coronavirus across the globe, with the global death toll crossing 46,000. With no known cure so far for the coronavirus, the deadly disease has become a major issue for the entire world.

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