$21 million for ‘voter turnout in India’ among grant cuts announced by Elon Musk-led DOGE - The Hindu

Key Budget Cuts

The US Department of Government Efficiency, headed by Elon Musk, announced substantial budget cuts, including $21 million designated for "voter turnout in India." Other cuts included funding for various international projects, such as initiatives in Moldova, Bangladesh, Nepal, Cambodia, and several others.

Impact on India

The $21 million cut for voter turnout in India follows Prime Minister Modi's recent visit to the US, during which he met with both President Trump and Elon Musk. The nature of the discussions between these leaders and the relation, if any, to this budget cut remains unclear.

Additional Cuts

• $486 million to the “Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening”
• $22 million for "inclusive and participatory political process" in Moldova
• $29 million allocated to "strengthening political landscape in Bangladesh"
• $20 million for "fiscal federalism" in Nepal
• $19 million for "biodiversity conversation" in Nepal
• $10 million for "Mozambique voluntary medical male circumcision"
• $2.3 million for "strengthening independent voices in Cambodia"
• $32 million to the Prague Civil Society Centre
• $40 million for "gender equality and women empowerment hub"
• $14 million for "improving public procurement" in Serbia
• $47 million for "improving learning outcomes in Asia"