Supported by the central government, the state government must identify the need and locations for new housing and schools. NGOs and corporate India should offer assistance by adopting such programs. Thousands are unemployed, without any income from cultivation. Business houses could offer employment to at least one member per family, besides adopting villages to improve living conditions. Rotary did remarkable work in Sri Lanka where it associated with some corporate entities and banks to build modern, vibrant schools in place of dilapidated buildings. Similarly, the Bihar government needs to prioritise infrastructure development including hospitals, community centres, electricity and water supply systems.

Surprisingly the central government has not yet extended 100 per cent tax exemption for financial contributions in the wake of the disaster. This is normal for national disasters of this magnitude. Hopefully this exemption will be announced soon and will attract increased financial contributions. I support the government in not seeking help from foreign countries and, therefore, not giving general exemption under Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), as was done in Gujarat or after the tsunami. Nevertheless, exceptions for genuine NGOs should be considered on a case-to-case basis.

How will we confront this national tragedy? This is not just about Bihar but about what it means to be Indian. We overcame the trauma of the Gujarat earthquake and the tsunami. One only has to visit Bhuj, or some tsunami-struck areas in Tamil Nadu to see what we can do, if we put our mind to it. How we stand together and deliver will speak louder about our development as a nation of responsible and caring citizens than the Sensex and GDP. The time to act is now.

... contd.