Ratan Tata committed Rs 1,500 crore to fight coronavirus

Tata Trusts today committed Rs 500 crore to fight COVID-19 disease, which it noted was one of the "toughest challenges the human race will face". Tata Sons also announced an additional support of Rs 1,000 crore, taking the total commitment to Rs 1,500 crore.

The funds will be used for personal protective equipment for medical personnel, respiratory systems, testing kits and setting up modular treatment facilities for patients, among others, said Ratan Tata, Chairman of Tata Trusts.

"The COVID 19 crisis is one of the toughest challenges we will face as a race. The Tata Trusts and the Tata group companies have in the past risen to the needs of the nation. At this moment, the need of the hour is greater than any other time," he tweeted.

The COVID 19 crisis is one of the toughest challenges we will face as a race. The Tata Trusts and the Tata group companies have in the past risen to the needs of the nation. At this moment, the need of the hour is greater than any other time. pic.twitter.com/y6jzHxUafM — Ratan N. Tata (@RNTata2000) March 28, 2020

Tata Sons in a statement said it "will work together with the Tata Trusts and Chairman Emeritus Mr. Tata would be fully supporting their initiatives, and work in a collaborative manner to bring the full expertise of the group".

India saw the highest jump in coronavirus or COVID-19 cases today with 194 patients testing positive for the highly contagious illness in different parts of the country. The total is now 918, which includes 19 deaths, according to the Union Health Ministry.