- India,
- 16-Feb-2025 02:20 PM IST
- (Updated 16-Feb-2025 12:59 PM IST)
India-America Relations: Recently, the US has taken a big decision to cut financial aid on many countries including India. The US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led by Elon Musk has announced the cancellation of US $ 22 million funding targeted for 'voter turnout' in India. The department shared the information about this decision on its official social media platform X. The department clarified that the money of American taxpayers, which was to be used for this purpose, has now been completely stopped.Impact on other countries as wellThe funding canceled by the US department is not limited to India only. Financial assistance of $ 29 million for Bangladesh has also been cut. Apart from this, foreign aid related to 'voter turnout' of other countries has also been affected. Overall, DOGE has announced a cut of $ 723 million in foreign aid funds.The main objective behind this decision is said to be to cut government expenditure drastically. In the last few weeks, DOGE has taken several important steps to control US government expenditure. Discussions have intensified in various political and international circles regarding this cut.Reaction in Indian politicsAfter this announcement, political stir has intensified in India. Reacting to this, BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya raised the question that a grant of $ 21 million was being given for voter turnout in India? He called it external interference in India's electoral process and questioned who was going to benefit from this. He argued that it would not have been beneficial for the ruling party in any way.Modi-Musk meetingRecently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Elon Musk during his official visit to the US. In this meeting, various topics were discussed between the two leaders, including strengthening cooperation on innovation, space, artificial intelligence and sustainable development. During this, Musk had come to meet PM Modi with his three children.Policy of cutting government costsDOGE, under the leadership of Elon Musk, is constantly working towards cutting government expenses. This funding cut is being seen as part of the same strategy in which the US is moving towards limiting foreign aid and strengthening its internal financial priorities. However, the wider implications of this move are being debated globally.ConclusionThe US decision to cancel the funding earmarked for India and other countries is an important development, which can have an impact on global politics and diplomacy. There will be more discussions in the coming days on the policy behind this decision and its consequences. It will be interesting to see what will be the reactions of various political parties and experts in India regarding this move.