USAID Funded 7 Development Projects In India, Claims FinMin Report. Here's How Much The Budget Was

The Ministry of Finance report stated that no funds were allocated for initiatives related to voter participation in India during the year.

USAID has committed an obligation of $97 million (around Rs 825 crore) towards these initiatives in the last fiscal year.

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The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has funded seven development projects in India, amounting to a total budget of approximately $750 million for the financial year 2023-24, according to the latest annual report from the Ministry of Finance.

As per the report, USAID has committed an obligation of $97 million (around Rs 825 crore) towards these initiatives in the last fiscal year. The Department of Economic Affairs, which serves as the nodal agency for bilateral funding agreements, has provided details of these projects in the ministry’s report, reported PTI.

Which Sectors Has The Funding Been Allocated To?

The funding has been allocated to a range of sectors, including agriculture and food security, water sanitation and hygiene (WASH), renewable energy, disaster management, and healthcare. Additionally, financial commitments have been made towards a sustainable forestry and climate adaptation program, as well as a project aimed at commercialising energy efficiency technologies and fostering innovation.

Notably, the report stated that no funds were allocated for initiatives related to voter participation in India during the year. The announcement comes in the backdrop of a political controversy over claims regarding foreign funding for election-related activities.

USAID Funding & Musk's DOGE

USAID has been supporting India’s development journey since 1951, with a cumulative economic assistance exceeding $17 billion across more than 555 projects. The agency has played a significant role in various developmental sectors, reinforcing Indo-US cooperation.

The funding issue gained political traction after the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) reportedly rescinded a $21 million grant intended for “voter turnout” efforts in India. Former US President Donald Trump had alleged that during Joe Biden’s administration, USAID allocated $21 million for this purpose in India, sparking debate in both countries.

Responding to these claims, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar termed the information from the Trump administration as "concerning" and affirmed that the government is scrutinising the matter.