Income Tax Saving: Ayodhya Ram Mandir Donation Can Get You 50% Deduction — Here’s How
Donations to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust for the Ayodhya Ram Mandir are eligible for a 50% tax deduction under Section 80G, provided the donor opts for the old tax regime.
Taxpayers looking to maximise their savings for the financial year 2024-25 still have opportunities to do so. One such avenue is through Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, which allows deductions for contributions made to government-specified trusts. However, not all charitable donations automatically qualify for tax benefits under this provision.
One of the eligible entities is the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Donations made to this trust — whether online or in cash (up to Rs 2,000) — qualify for a Section 80G deduction, provided the donor has opted for the old tax regime. This deduction can be up to 50% of the donated amount, although the actual benefit depends on specific criteria.
Ram Mandir 80G Deduction Details
The Central Government has officially recognised Shri Ram Trust as a historically significant place of worship under Section 80G(2)(b) of the Income Tax Act. As a result, donations specifically made for the renovation or repair of the temple qualify for a 50% tax deduction under this section.
However, deductions cannot exceed 10% of the donor's adjusted gross total income (GTI). Additionally, donations for purposes other than temple repair and renovation do not qualify for tax benefits.
To claim tax exemptions for donations to the Ram Mandir, you need to remember a few key points:
Only taxpayers opting for the old tax regime can claim the deduction.
Cash donations exceeding Rs 2,000 and donations in kind are not eligible for deduction.
Donations must be made through approved online platforms, cheques, or bank transfers.
Deductions apply to donations made during the financial year, irrespective of the Pran Pratistha (inauguration) date.
The donation receipt must be downloaded and retained for claiming the deduction while filing ITR.
Claiming Process
To avail of the tax deduction for donations made to the Ram Mandir, follow these steps:
Obtain a valid donation receipt from Shri Ram Trust.
Ensure the donation is made specifically for temple renovation or repair.
Opt for the old tax regime when filing your ITR.
Report the donation details in Schedule 80G of your ITR form.
How To Donate To Ram Mandir
You can contribute to the Ram Mandir through the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust using the following steps:
Visit the official website of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust — https://srjbtkshetra.org/
Find the ‘Donate’ tab on the homepage and click on it.
Log in using your mobile number and OTP or register using your details.
Select one of the three authorised bank accounts — SBI, PNB or BoB. (For non-Indian passport holders, specific bank account details are available on the official website)
Enter your name, donation purpose, PAN number, donation amount, address, mobile number and email ID.
Choose from payment options such as payment gateway, UPI, NEFT, IMPS, demand draft or cheque.
After your transaction has been completed, download and keep the donation receipt for your records.
Things To Remember While Donating To Ram Mandir
Donate only through the official channels mentioned above to avoid fraud.
Cash donations above Rs 2,000 are not eligible for tax deductions.
A 50% deduction on taxable income applies only for temple renovation, and repair donations under Section 80G, subject to the old tax regime.
Keep the donation receipt as proof when filing your tax return.
