Jaishankar Flags Concerns About USAID’s $21 Million Funding
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has expressed his concern about reports about USAID’s $21 million funding for activities in India. Jaishankar termed the scenario “worrisome,” saying it is disturbing when information about such funding is released by members of the last U.S. administration, especially those close to former President Donald Trump. He further stated that the support from USAID was originally granted in good faith, intended to spur positive initiatives, but recent events indicate that there could be ulterior motives or activities not governed by the initial purpose.
India’s Government Probes Funding Claims
Jaishankar also reiterated that the Indian government is keeping a close eye on the situation and investigating the matter. He assured the public that if there is any substance in these allegations, the authorities will be transparent about it. He said that the people of India should be told about the person or persons concerned if there is any irregularity found. His remarks are made in light of recent exposure regarding the alleged misuse of foreign aid.
DOGE’s Declaration on Canceled Funding
The scandal followed a recent tweet by the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which is spearheaded by business magnate Elon Musk. DOGE announced that it had canceled a major share of U.S. taxpayer-financed projects, including a $21 million program aimed at boosting voter turnout in India. Moreover, the statement brought attention to the cancellation of funds earmarked for political operations in Bangladesh and fiscal reforms in Nepal. But the post did not elaborate on the reasons for the cancellations, which left many unanswered questions.
Trump Speaks about USAID Funding
The issue was further discussed when former American President Donald Trump spoke about the funding at a ‘Governors Working Session’ in Washington. He vented his ire at the $21 million being spent on India for voter turnout programs, saying, “Twenty-one million dollars to my buddy Prime Minister Modi in India for voter turnout. We’re providing 21 million for voter turnout in India. What about us? I’d like voter turnout too.” His comments created controversies regarding foreign meddling with local electoral activities.
India Responds to Foreign Meddling
The Indian government was concerned in its deep disappointment over the reported USAID funding, which many saw as possible foreign interference in India’s domestic affairs. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) termed the revelations “deeply troubling” and reiterated that India is serious about its sovereignty. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal assured that appropriate departments and authorities would thoroughly investigate the issue to determine the extent and nature of these foreign activities.
Transparency and Accountability
While the investigation is ongoing, India’s government has assured that any foreign influence or donations intended for political or electoral purposes will be closely examined. The emphasis is on keeping things transparent and preventing foreign powers from pursuing actions that may compromise the integrity of India’s democratic processes. The matter has also raised general concerns about the possible effects of foreign aid on national sovereignty and electoral systems.
The Ongoing Debate
This has led to an ongoing debate regarding the use of foreign funding in elections and political processes. Although the U.S. government asserts that the funding was meant to encourage voter turnout, Indian critics view it as a potential effort to sway the political process. The result of the investigation will most likely have far-reaching implications for future foreign engagement and assistance in India’s political arena.
#WATCH | Delhi: On USAID, EAM S Jaishankar says, “…Some information has been put out there by the Trump administration people, and obviously, that is concerning… I think, as a government, we’re looking into it. My sense is that the facts will come out…USAID was allowed here… pic.twitter.com/UZT5aimfXX
— ANI (@ANI) February 22, 2025
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