Major Cut in Financial Aid Given by India to Bangladesh

Now Only ₹60 Crore to Be Provided

India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus

New Delhi — The Government of India has made a significant reduction in the financial assistance to be provided to Bangladesh in the Union Budget for the year 2026–27. This year, a provision of only ₹60 crore has been earmarked for Bangladesh. Last year, ₹120 crore was provided. This means India has halved its financial aid to Bangladesh.

At present, relations between India and Bangladesh are under strain. Violence against the minority Hindu community in Bangladesh and a shift in Bangladesh’s foreign policy are being seen as the primary reasons for this. After the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2024, Bangladesh has begun strengthening its ties with Pakistan.

Apart from Bangladesh, the Budget has allocated ₹550 crore in aid to the Maldives and ₹300 crore to Myanmar. (The Maldives too had engaged in anti-India activities. What will be achieved by giving it financial assistance? – Editor) In contrast, India has allocated ₹2,288 crore for Bhutan, which is approximately ₹138 crore more than last year.

We Are Constantly Monitoring the Situation of Minorities in Bangladesh — Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh

The Government of India is closely monitoring reports of attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, including incidents where their homes, shops, properties, and places of worship have been targeted, said Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh. He stated that India has repeatedly raised the issue of minority safety with the Bangladesh government at both political and diplomatic levels. Prime Minister Modi had also raised this issue during his meeting with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Mohammad Yunus on April 4, 2025, the Minister informed the Rajya Sabha.

Increase in Bangladesh–Pakistan Relations

The current government of Bangladesh is actively working to strengthen relations with Pakistan. Direct cargo shipping services have begun between the two countries. Recently, a flight from Dhaka landed in Karachi, marking the resumption of direct air connectivity between the two nations after 14 years.

Editorial Perspective

Considering Bangladesh’s anti-India activities, many patriotic Indians feel that even ₹60 crore should not be given ! Instead of spending this money on Bangladesh, it should be spent on Hindus in India !