27th February 2018
In the week of Feb 5th, we were in Chandigarh to meet with the officials of the Income Tax (Exemptions) department. This was to present ShikshaDaan’s case requesting the 80G exemption status. This was the first time Krishnan and I were meeting the IT (Exemptions) officials and we were fully prepared with all the documentation. We had a great meeting with the officials and also got the chance to meet with the Commissioner of Income Tax (Exemptions), Mr. Amaresh Singh.
To say we were impressed would be insufficient – Mr. Amaresh Singh was so open and welcoming !! He urged us to present our case well and also debate with him on certain concepts related to the NGO sector. Our preconceived notions about IT officers went out of the window and quickly. We came away feeling very positive and very satisfied that we were given a fair hearing. We could share our thoughts freely, and we could answer all the questions that were raised.
Today Krishnan went out to buy some groceries and on his way back, looked into the mailbox like we have been in the past week and we had mail from the CIT (E) Chandigarh’s office. Our 80G exemption request had been granted ! We were thrilled. This helps us raise more resources and in turn help many many more heroes of ShikshaDaan. The rest of the day has gone off in a blur because we were sharing the news with our friends, colleagues and sponsors and receiving congratulatory messages.
Now ShikshaDaan moves forward with renewed vigour and even more enthusiasm to make a difference in the lives of many many more people.
Mr. Amaresh Singh, thanks for believing in us and this is a public promise that ShikshaDaan will uphold the trust that you and all our sponsors have reposed in us and stay true to its stated purpose.