Skoda Auto in association with the Volkswagen Group is giving a one-million euro (Rs 8.2 crore) aid package to help India fight the Covid-19 pandemic. The aid package consists of in-kind and financial donations.

Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Skoda Auto, said, “We are in contact with our colleagues in India every day. They know best what is most urgently needed at the moment. We are working hard to secure the appropriate relief supplies, including oxygen tanks, and transport them to India as quickly as possible. We are grateful that we can help our Indian friends on the ground this way. In these challenging circumstances, the Skoda family stands together.”

The second wave of coronavirus has India firmly in its grip. The sudden spike in infections has resulted in a shortage of hospital beds, medical oxygen and antiviral medication, straining the overall healthcare system. As a local employer in Pune, Aurangabad and Mumbai, Skoda  says it is doing its bit to help improve the situation.

The support will consist of medical supplies and a monetary donation to the German Red Cross. This is intended to meet as many different aid needs as possible in the crisis region. Among other things, Skoda is procuring medical equipment and materials such as oxygen generators and liquid oxygen tanks, which are necessary for inland transport. The brand’s purchasing and logistics departments are working tirelessly to acquire the relief supplies at short notice and deliver them to the crisis region as quickly as possible, despite the difficult conditions caused by the pandemic. The Indian Red Cross is expected to handle the distribution locally.

Gurpratap Boparai, Managing Director, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, said: “The country is going through an unprecedented situation with the unexpected rise in COVID-19 cases, leading to extreme stress on the healthcare facilities in India. Skoda Auto’s generous donation, both material and financial support will provide some relief to those affected. ”