India

Country Program estimate 2008-09: $2.2 million

Total estimated ODA for 2008-09: $5.36 million

Australia 's development cooperation program to India has been phased down following the Government of India's decision to reduce its engagement with smaller bilateral donors.

The Australian government is assisting India through partnerships with UN agencies and Development Banks. The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) also has a significant program of assistance to India.

A major multilateral HIV/AIDS program in North-East India is commenced in late-2006.

Country overview

With some 1.1 billion people, diverse regions, and a vibrant democracy, India has made progress on a scale, size and pace that is unprecedented in its history. Significant structural reforms have helped India become one of the world's fastest growing economies with a GDP growth rate over 9 per cent, boosting living standards and reducing poverty. India has emerged as a global player in information technology, business process outsourcing, telecommunications and pharmaceuticals.

While pursuing a sound path to growth, India has new challenges like improving core public services and making growth more inclusive and sustainable. Critical health indicators such as maternal mortality rates have shown little improvement, and only minimal progress has been made in addressing malnutrition.

Development challenges

Economic growth while beneficial for the middle class in India, has also created disparities between urban and rural areas, prosperous and lagging states and skilled and low-skilled workers. Infrastructure has been unable to keep pace with the country's needs. Access to safe water and adequate sanitation is emerging as a critical challenge, as is the threat of HIV/AIDS.

Aid Activities in India

HIV/AIDS Program for North East India

Contribution: $10 million
Duration: 2006 - 2011
Implementing Organisation: UNAIDS

The project aims to reduce the risk and impact of HIV/AIDS in the states of Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya and Manipur in North East India.

Integrated Approach Towards Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV/AIDS

Contribution: $445,000
Duration: 2002 - 2009
Implementing Organisation: MAMTA

This project provides support to safe motherhood initiatives and builds stakeholder capacity to prevent mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS.

Empowering Communities for Prevention of Drugs and HIV in India

Contribution: $823,000
Duration: 2005 - 2008
Implementing Organisation: UNODC

This activity supports Drug and HIV prevention education in the four North Eastern States of Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Meghalaya.

Useful websites

May 2008