March 16, 1967
Page 7049
A REAL POLICY ON INDIA
Mr. MUSKIE. Mr. President, if I thought that food aid to India were to turn into an exercise in perpetual motion, I could not in good conscience support the joint resolution. But I do not think this need be or will be the case.
I believe that India is moving ahead. I believe that India can eventually become a self-supporting Nation. If we refused to lend a hand, India could not make it. But as we do extend our assistance, I think India can pull through.
In saying this, I want to make it clear that I am not suggesting that we open the door of every American granary on behalf of India. This is a case where it is necessary that we extend our food aid on a measured basis and with some specific qualifications attached – including more self-help by India itself and more help from the outside by the other developed countries. The President, in my opinion, is acting wisely in insisting on these qualifications.
I wish to lend my own support to the joint resolution on food aid to India, and I hope that my distinguished colleagues will see fit to join with me.