The UK government would end financial aid to India by 2015, British international development secretary Justine Greening said.
The announcement was not surprising as it had been public knowledge for a while. Support will gradually be phased out between now and 2015, saving £200 million to the UK exchequer.
Britain’s focus will thereafter shift to offering technical assistance.
“The move reflected India’s economic progress and status,” Greening said.
“After reviewing the programme and holding discussions with the government of India, we agreed that now is the time to move to a relationship focusing on skill sharing rather than aid.’’
Right-wing MPs and press had continuously been criticizing assistance to India, saying a country which spends colossal sums on defence and space programme did not deserve it.
The move comes as a relief to India, which while being embarrassed over it was reluctant to take the initiative in terminating the aid.
1 comment:
Wow that is astonishing. It should have a big effect on India's economy
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