The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under the leadership of Elon Musk, has declared its intention to terminate several foreign aid initiatives as part of a broader strategy to curtail government expenditures. Among the significant projects being scrapped is a $22 million initiative aimed at enhancing voter participation in India. Additionally, DOGE has announced the cancellation of $29 million allocated for the enhancement of the political framework in Bangladesh. Other reductions in funding include $10 million designated for a healthcare program in Mozambique and $39 million intended for projects related to fiscal federalism and biodiversity preservation in Nepal. In Bangladesh, the decision to withdraw funding aligns with ongoing negotiations regarding the introduction of Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service in the nation. Recently, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, engaged in a video conference with Musk to discuss the potential of Starlink in improving internet connectivity for underserved regions, particularly benefiting rural communities and vulnerable groups.
