Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar on Saturday announced that he will be donating Rs 25 crore to the emergency fund launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to combat health contingencies like the coronavirus.

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Taking to Twitter, Akshay said that safeguarding the lives of the people is of paramount importance right now. "This is that time when all that matters is the lives of our people. And we need to do anything and everything it takes. I pledge to contribute Rs 25 crores from my savings to @narendramodi ji's PM-CARES Fund. Let's save lives, Jaan hai toh jahaan hai," Akshay tweeted.

Reacting to this, PM Modi replied, "Great gesture @akshaykumar. Let's keep donating for a healthier India."

PM Modi had earlier on Saturday announced the creation of the Prime Minister's Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM-CARES) where people can contribute and help the government in the fight against the COVID-19.

The country is witnessing a 21-day lockdown, as announced by the PM, to contain the spread of the virus.

According to the health ministry, the number of COVID-19 cases crossed 979 in India on Sunday with the death toll rising to 25.