India, June 1 -- In a first-of-its-kind move, the Union Home Ministry has granted permission to the Maharashtra government to accept foreign donations for the Chief Minister's Relief Fund (CMRF), marking a significant policy shift under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).

The CMRF, operated by the state government, provides financial assistance to individuals affected by natural disasters, accidents, communal violence, terror attacks, and also extends aid for medical treatment and educational support. Until now, the fund-like those in other states-could only receive domestic contributions from individuals and companies.

"This is the first time any state's CM Relief Fund has been allowed to receive foreign contributions under...