India's 'Grave Concern': UNDP's Budget Cuts Threaten South-South Cooperation

India has raised serious concerns over significant budget cuts by the UN Development Programme to the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation. With reductions exceeding $80 million for 2025 and $113 million for 2026, India urges UNDP to reconsider, stressing the critical role of South-South cooperation.

India has expressed serious concerns about proposed budget cuts by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) that would significantly impact the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC). The cuts of over $80 million for 2025 and an estimated $113 million for 2026 could hinder UNOSSC's operational capabilities.

Speaking at the Executive Board's First Regular Session, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador P Harish, emphasized the vital role of South-South cooperation in achieving Sustainable Development Goals. He urged the UNDP to rethink the budget reduction, highlighting India's long-standing partnership with the organization.

UNDP administrator Alexander De Croo acknowledged the challenging funding environment and announced further budget evaluations for the year. India continues to stand by UNDP, noting its invaluable contributions to national priorities in poverty reduction, social inclusion, and institutional strengthening.