1.   The Embassy of Japan in India, under its scheme ‘Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects’, today decided to extend grant assistance totaling US$71,237 (approximately equivalent to Rs.31 lacs) to Umeed, to support a rural medical service project. The recipient and the project receiving the Grant is as follows:

(ⅰ)　Umeed has been providing ophthalmic service for those who are under unprivileged and aged in rural areas in Punjab, since 1997. The base hospital treats around 3000 patients annually, and the organization has decided to upgrade base hospital conditions with necessary equipment for eye surgeries. To this end, the Embassy of Japan has decided to grant the organization a sum of US$71,237 for the project.

2.   The Signing Ceremony to formalize the arrangements was conducted on Monday, 21st December, 2009, at the Embassy of Japan, between H.E. Mr. Hideaki DOMICHI, Ambassador of Japan to India and the representative of the above NGO.

3.   The scheme of ‘Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects’ was introduced by the Government of Japan in 1989, to provide timely assistance directly to the activities of NGOs promoting welfare of the people in developing countries. Projects eligible for the grant assistance include such fields as primary healthcare, primary education, care of the handicapped people, poverty alleviation, enhancing status of women, public welfare, environment protection, etc.

4.    For further information, please contact Mr. Goki INADA, First Secretary, Embassy of Japan. Telephone No.2687-6564.