"The COVID 19 crisis is one of the toughest challenges we will face as a race. The Tata Trusts and the Tata group companies have in the past risen to the needs of the nation. At this moment, the need of the hour is greater than any other time," Ratan Tata, the Chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Trusts said on Saturday, making a huge monetary contribution for the noble cause of handling the public health emergency.

"Today, the Tata Trusts continue their pledge to protect and empower all affected communities, and is committing Rs 500 Cr for the personal protective equipment for the medical personnel on the frontlines, respiratory systems for treating increasing cases, testing kits to increase percapita testing, setting up modular treatment facilities for infected patients, and knowledge management and training of health workers and the general public," Ratan Tata said in a statement.

The industrialist has been hailed by many on social media for the generous gesture.