Former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh pledged to donate Rs 50 lakh to the PM CARES Fund to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic. The flamboyant all-rounder also appealed to the people to stay united in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic that has so far claimed more than 70 lives while infecting over 3000 across the the country. "We are stronger when we stand united. I will be lighting a candle tonight at 9pm for 9 minutes. Are you with me?" he asked referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to light candles, diyas or torchlights for nine minutes.
"On this great day of solidarity, I pledge Rs. 50 Lakhs to the PMCaresFunds. Please do your bit too!," Yuvraj Singh wrote on his twitter handle. Since Modi's appeal, many sportspersons have come forward and urged the country's people to switch off lights for nine minutes and light candles on the balconies of their houses. The PM also urged people to donate generously as the country battles the unprecedented coronavirus crisis.
Harbhajan To Feed 5000 Families
Harbhajan Singh has pledged to feed 5000 under-privileged families in his native Jalandhar, who are suffering due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has infected over a million people globally and wreaked havoc on the economy. The contagion has already killed more than 70 people with 3000 plus being tested positive in India.
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Harbhajan Singh and his wife Geeta have pledged to distribute ration to 5000 families residing in Jalandhar. (Image credit: Getty Images)
"By Blessings of Almighty, Geeta and I pledge to distribute ration to 5000 families residing in Jalandhar, who are struggling to feed their families during these difficult times. We will continue to help and support our fellow citizens in whichever way we can lessen the burden of struggle," Harbhajan said. Asked how is he co-ordinating from Mumbai, the star spinner said: "I used to live in Daulatpuri earlier. My close friends today completed distribution of dry ration to 500 families in that area. I have personally spoken to DC (Punjab Police) Jalandhar. My team of friends will be following his instructions and accordingly food packets will be distributed."
Also Read | Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu And Other Sporting Greats Show Solidarity In Coronavirus Fight
The 39-year-old said that he will continue to feed the people who are homeless and jobless until normalcy returns. "We are distributing 5kg of rice, flour, oil and other essential cooking ingredients. This endeavour will continue for the time being," Harbhajan said. "I am still very attached to Jalandhar as I divide my time between Mumbai and Jalandhar. A part of me resides there and I can't see my own people suffer. Cricket has given me a lot and this is the least I could do. I wanted to ensure that if I am able to help, it should reach people directly and thanks to Punjab Police and my childhood friends, we have started off well. But a lot of work still needs to be done," the 'Turbanator' added.
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