Government Cautions Public Against Fraudulent WhatsApp Message on Donations for Indian Army Modernisation

By telcro Published on Apr 28, 2025

New Delhi, April 27, 2025:
The Government today warned citizens against a misleading WhatsApp message seeking donations to a specific bank account purportedly for the modernisation of the Indian Army and for soldiers injured or killed in action.

The message falsely claims to quote a Cabinet decision and incorrectly links actor Shri Akshay Kumar as the prime mover behind the proposal. Authorities have clarified that the bank account details mentioned in the message are incorrect, leading to online donations being dishonoured. Citizens are urged to remain cautious and avoid falling prey to such fraudulent appeals.

The Government reiterated that several welfare initiatives are already in place for the families of soldiers who are killed or grievously injured during active combat operations. Among these is the Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund (AFBCWF), instituted in 2020. Managed by the Indian Army on behalf of the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, Ministry of Defence, the fund provides immediate financial assistance to affected families.

Official contributions to AFBCWF can be made through the following authorised accounts:

1st Account:

Fund Name: Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund
Bank Name: Canara Bank, South Block, Defence Headquarters, New Delhi – 110011
IFSC Code: CNRB0019055
Account No.: 90552010165915
Account Type: Savings

2nd Account:

Fund Name: Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund
Bank Name: State Bank of India, Parliament Street, New Delhi – 110011
IFSC Code: SBIN0000691
Account No.: 40650628094
Account Type: Savings

Donations can also be made through a Demand Draft drawn in favour of AFBCWF, payable at New Delhi, and sent to the following address:

Accounts Section
Adjutant General’s Branch
Ceremonial & Welfare Directorate
Room No. 281-B, South Block
Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army)
New Delhi – 110011

The Government urged citizens to verify all information from official sources before making any financial contributions.