The United States' position on India has generated heated debate, with the majority questioning President Biden's administration's motives. Recent events indicate that the Biden administration could be attempting to discredit the Indian government, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
At the center of this controversy is the question of USAID funding. Former President Donald Trump had earlier criticized the use of USAID funds in India, arguing that the nation was not doing enough to advance US interests. In contrast, President Biden's administration has been more nuanced in its approach, stressing the need to support India's development objectives.
But some critics say that the Biden administration's attempts to give USAID funding to India are actually a thinly disguised effort to exert influence over the Indian government. They say that the funding is usually conditional and comes with requirements, which can be interpreted as an effort to dictate India's domestic policies.
The Implications of USAID Funding
The controversy over USAID funding underscores the complicated dynamics of US-India relations. On the one hand, the funding is a sign of goodwill and a gesture of recognition of India's increasing stature in the international community. On the other hand, it is seen as an effort to impose influence on India's internal policies and challenge the authority of the Modi government.
As the US and India continue to try to figure out their complicated relationship, it is unclear how the fight over USAID funding will unfold. One thing is certain, though: the argument over US aid to India is not just about money – it's about the future of US-India relations and the United States' role in guiding India's development agenda ¹.