Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s historic ‘Tilak Swaraj Fund’  in 1920-21, the Congress on Saturday announced to launch on December 18 its nationwide ‘Donate for Desh’ crowdfunding campaign ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. It said the initiative aims to empower the party in creating an India that is rich in equal resource distribution and opportunities.

The campaign will be launched by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi. During a Press conference at the Congress headquarters, party general secretary KC Venugopal and Treasurer Ajay Maken said Indians above the age of 18 can donate a minimum of `138 or in multiples of ten, such as `1,380.

 “Our inaugural campaign — ‘Donate for Behtar Bharat’ — commemorates the 138-year journey of the Indian National Congress. Embracing our history, we invite supporters to donate in multiples of `138, symbolising the party’s enduring commitment to a better India,” Venugopal said.

The party has created two online channels for the crowdfunding campaign — a dedicated portal at donateinc.In and the official Congress website at inc.In. All Pradesh Congress Committee presidents will raise awareness about the campaign through press conferences and social media, he said, adding it will primarily online until December 28, the party’s foundation day.

After that, ground campaigns, including door-to-door visits by volunteers, targeting at least 10 houses in every booth for contributions of at least Rs 138 from each, will be launched. Venugopal said state-level office bearers, elected representatives, District Congress Committee presidents, PCC chiefs and AICC officials will be encouraged to contribute at least Rs 1,380 each.

“For the campaign’s effectiveness, all PCC presidents will identify potential donors,” he said.

Venugopal also announced a “mammoth rally” in Maharashtra’s Nagpur on December 28 to mark the party’s 138th foundation day. He said at least 10 lakh people will attend the historic rally.