Dubai-based Indian expat donates Dh1.8m to Autism Centre

An Indian philanthropist and businessman has come forward to help the Dubai Autism Center by donating Dh1.8 million in continuation of his charity drive started earlier to help the distressed community members and disabled people. Sidharth Balachandran, former President of India Club, Dubai, and Managing Director of Bungo Group of companies received a pat on his back from the Autism Center officials in the form of a certificate of appreciation for the kind gesture that will prompt other community leaders and businessmen to help the charity activities in the country. Speaking to Emirates 24|7, Sidharth Balachandran said he donated the money and would like to encourage other community members to follow suit. The donation will help the inmates of Dubai Autism Center to pursue education and wellbeing, said Sidharth. “I have been supporting the Dubai Autism Center for the last six years and this could be the single largest donation that I have made to them so far. I realized that their activities have been hampered by the steep fall in donations and financial support from various companies and individuals. I hope my gesture will prompt other community leaders and businessmen to follow suit and help the downtrodden and poor sections of society. I hope other business people will come forward to help the charity drive on the eve of next Ramadan,” he added. “It is only a symbolic gesture, a continuation of our charity drive on behalf of Bungo Group,” he said. Currently there are 57 autistic members in the Dubai Autism Center and the number of children seeking the Center's help is increasing and need more funding to support them, said Mohammed Al Emmadi, Director of Dubai Autism Center, at the event. Sidharth, an Indian engineer, who reached Dubai like any other expatriate in search of his fortune was instrumental in providing Dh500,000 seed fund a few years ago under the “Mother and Child” support scheme started by the Indian Consulate following the suicide of a four members of an Indian family in Ras Al Khaimah, following bankruptcy and failure of their truck business. “One-and-half years ago, many people lost their jobs, leading to difficult living conditions for their family, especially women and children. I am happy that about 225 families have got help from the fund.” “The fund provided a lease of life to distressed families by giving them food, school fees for children who could not continue their education or other charitable activities. Still the problem is not over, but I am happy that the fund is active,” Sidharth said. Emirates 24/7