A staggering £380,000 has been raised by a group of Birmingham-based entrepreneurs to help support suffering families caught up in farmers’ protests in India.

More than 3,200 people have made donations after watching a 'Kisaans in Need' event livestreamed on YouTube.  Kisaans, who are farmers or agricultural workers in India, have been protesting against a series of agricultural reform laws.

The protests have intensified in recent months, with worsening climates and clashes with government forces reportedly leading to deaths of farmers, and rising suicide rates because of increased stress. 

Recognise One is an apolitical platform working as part of a global movement that is committed to ending poverty and social injustice. It chose the Midland Langar Seva Society (MLSS) as a charity partner to collect the funds from the online event.

MLSS, a Walsall-based charity set up in 2013 to provide free hot food and drinks to people in need, has received many accolades over the years including the Queen’s Award, the Prime Minister’s Points of Light Award and a TSB Local Pride of Birmingham Community Partner Award. 

Investor and entrepreneur, Tani Dulay,  chief executive of Woodbourne Group, has been helping to co-ordinate the charity effort.

Mr Dulay, speaking on behalf of Recognise One said: “Recognise One is strictly apolitical, founded on the principle of Sikhism, recognising the human race as one. 

“We give voice to those that require it, no matter the colour, race or creed as part of a global movement committed to ending poverty and social injustice. 

“We operate purely and transparently on a 100% donation basis, with any and all associated costs self-funded by us.

“The funds will go directly towards suicide prevention and mental health awareness projects, plus farming methods to yield better results, water preservation techniques such as the Israeli dripfeed irrigation system, and alternatives to pesticides. This will all support current and future generations of Indian farmers.”

The Kisaans in Need event was hosted by Harjap Bhangal and featured MP Tanmanjeet Singh Desi, British producer and musician Steel Banglez and film director Rehmat Rayatt. Others who appeared included Benny Dhaliwal, Kanwar Grewal, Malkit Singh MBE and Randhir Singh, the chief executive of the Midland Langar Seva Society. 

Pop superstar Rihanna, environmental activist Greta Thunberg and British rapper Giggs have since expressed their support of the farmers.

To donate to the cause click here