India 'open' to accepting foreign aid for Kerala floods

Even as India turned down offers of international aid in wake of the devastating floods in Kerala that claimed 370 lives, a media report in India said that the government may be open to accepting assistance to help the south Indian state back on its feet.
The development will come as a relief for Kerala, which has been concerned about a shortfall in funds during the long road to reconstruction.
"The government is open to accepting foreign aid and humanitarian assistance," an NDTV report said, citing sources.
The assistance will be subject to existing norms and procedures, the report added.
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 Earlier, the United Arab Emirates has offered $100 million (around Rs 700 crore) as financial assistance for flood relief operation in Kerala. The government of Maldives has also decided to donate $50,000 (Rs 35 lakh) for flood-affected people in Kerala.
The new stance could mark a shift in policy. India has not accepted foreign aid for any natural disaster since 2004.
Kerala finance minister Thomas Isaac questioned the Centre's ability to support the state. "I don't know why they should deny some government or individual (who can help)," Isaac was quoted in the report.