USAID Funded / Funds came for projects but not for increasing voting… Disclosures in the Finance Ministry

USAID Funded: A controversy has erupted from the United States to India over the funding provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Amid this, India’s Ministry of Finance has released a detailed report revealing several significant findings related to USAID funding. According to this report, a total of $750 million (approximately ₹65 billion) was allocated for seven major projects in India during the financial year 2023-24.

Utilization of Funding and Projects

According to the Finance Ministry’s report, USAID funding has been utilized in various sectors, including:

• Agriculture and food security
• Water, sanitation, and hygiene
• Renewable energy
• Disaster management
• Healthcare services
• Forest and climate adaptation programs
• Energy efficiency technology commercialization and innovation projects

The report clarifies that this funding was not used to increase voter turnout in India. However, despite this claim, a recent revelation by the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has fueled controversy.

Controversy Following DOGE's Revelation

Earlier this month, DOGE claimed that USAID had granted $21 million to increase voter turnout in India. This revelation sparked political turmoil in India, with several political parties raising questions.

Reactions also emerged from the United States. U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the issue, stating, "We are giving India $21 million to increase voter turnout, but what about us? We need to increase voter turnout in our own country. India does not need this funding; it has sufficient resources." Trump's statement further escalated the political debate in the U.S.

Response from Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar expressed serious concern over the controversy. He stated that the information provided by the U.S. is worrisome, and the Indian government is conducting a thorough investigation. Jaishankar emphasized, "If such an incident has occurred, the nation has the right to know who is behind these activities and what their objective is."

A Look into History

According to the report, economic assistance from the U.S. to India began in 1951. To date, USAID has provided a total of ₹170 billion for 555 projects in India. This aid has primarily supported sectors such as infrastructure, health, education, and technological development.

What’s Next?

Following the controversy over USAID funding, both governments are now investigating the matter. The Indian government has made it clear that if any foreign interference in the electoral process is found, appropriate action will be taken. Meanwhile, political tensions regarding this issue have intensified in the U.S. as well.

This controversy could not only impact India-U.S. relations but also raise questions about the transparency of international aid programs. In the coming days, further revelations may emerge, potentially deepening the dispute.