Tax Deduction on Donations to Ayodhya Ram Mandir Trust

The grand inauguration of Ayodhya Ram Mandir on January 22, 2024 was one of the pivotal events. With the surge in visitor numbers over this period, there is a powerful impact on the various sectors of the Indian economy, including tourism, accommodation and infrastructure. 

As an individual, you can also contribute and donate to Shri Ram Trust and claim deductions. Read through this blog to gain a better understanding of the different aspects of the donations done to Shri Ram Trust:

• Eligibility to claim deductions for Shri Ram Trust donations.
• Ram Mandir 80G deduction details
• Process to claim deduction
• Process to donate to Ram Mandir 
• Important points to know

Eligibility for Claiming Deductions for Shri Ram Trust Donations

The Income Tax Act of 1961, under Section 80G, offers tax deductions for donations made to Shri Ram Trust (Ayodhya). Under this section, donations made to charitable institutions are eligible for deduction. Regardless of residency status, this benefit extends to all taxpayer categories, including individuals, companies, firms, and LLPs. Donations attract deductions ranging from 50% to 100%, depending on the institution and purpose.

The Income Tax Act of 1961, under Section 80G, offers tax deductions for donations made to Shri Ram Trust (Ayodhya). Under this section, donations made to charitable institutions are eligible for deduction. Regardless of residency status, this benefit extends to all taxpayer categories, including individuals, companies, firms, and LLPs. Donations attract deductions ranging from 50% to 100%, depending on the institution and purpose.

Ram Mandir 80G Deduction Details

The Central Government officially recognised Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust as a historically significant and renowned public place of worship for Section 80G(2)(b) purposes starting in the 2020-21 financial year. Therefore, donations for temple renovation or repair qualify for a 50% deduction under this section. However, deductions exceeding 10% of your adjusted gross total income (ATI) limit will not be allowed. Also, donations for purposes other than temple repair and renovation will not be allowed. Salaried employees can claim a deduction for donations under the Old Regime while filing ITR.

Additional Points for claiming tax exemption on donation to Ram Mandir Ayodhya:

• Cash donations exceeding Rs. 2,000  and donations in kind are ineligible for deduction.
• Donations made only through approved online platforms like NEFT, IMPS or UPI or cheques are acceptable.
• You can claim the deduction for donations made during the financial year, regardless of the Pran Pratishtha (Ram Mandir Inauguration) date.
• Download and retain the donation receipt as proof for claiming the deduction in your ITR.
• Donations made for repair or renovation of Ram temples are eligible for deduction. Donations made for religious events or welfare programmes are ineligible for deduction.

Claiming Process

1. Secure a valid Ram Mandir donation receipt from Shri Ram Trust.
2. Ensure the donation falls within the eligible category (renovation/repair).
3. Choose the old tax regime while filing your ITR.
4. Provide details of the donation in Schedule 80G of your ITR form.

How to Donate to Ram Mandir?

There are several ways to contribute to the construction of Ram Mandir through the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Here's a guide to make your donation process smooth and secure:

Step-1: Visit the official website: Head over to the official website of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust: https://srjbtkshetra.org/

Step-2: Click "Donate": Look for the "Donate" tab on the website's main page and click on it.

Step-3: Log in/Register: You can either log in with your mobile number and OTP or register using your details.

Step-4: Choose a bank account: Select one of the three authorized bank accounts for the Trust: SBI, PNB, or BoB. However, for Non-Indian passport holders, the bank account details are mentioned on the official website here.

Step-5: Fill in your information: Provide details like your name, purpose of donation, PAN number, donation amount, address, mobile number, and email ID.

Step-6: Make the payment: Choose your preferred payment method, which can be through a payment gateway, UPI, NEFT, IMPS, demand draft, or cheque.

Step-7: Download the receipt: Upon successful payment, you'll receive a donation receipt that you can download and keep for your records.

Important Points while making donations to Ram Mandir:

• Ensure you only donate through the official website or address mentioned above to avoid fraudulent activities.
• Donations made through cash exceeding Rs. 2,000 are not eligible for tax deductions.
• You can claim 50% deduction on your taxable income for donations made for renovation/repair of the temple under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, provided you choose the old tax regime while filing your ITR.
• Keep the donation receipt as proof for claiming tax deductions.