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Hyderabad: USAID Cuts Shutter India's First Clinic for Transgender People

India's first medical clinic for transgender people, Mitr Clinic in Hyderabad, has shut operations due to US President Donald Trump stopping foreign aid to it, affecting thousands of transgender individuals who relied on the clinic for HIV treatment and support services. The closure is a significant blow to the community, which faces stigma and discrimination despite a 2014 Supreme Court ruling granting them equal rights. The loss of funding will impact access to crucial medical care for this vulnerable population.

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U.s. Agency for International Development (Usaid) Freezes Funding to India's Transgender Clinics Δ1.89

Three clinics providing essential services to nearly 5,000 transgender individuals have been forced to close due to a stop-work order from USAID, which funded them until now. The clinics were established to provide guidance and medication on hormone therapy, counseling on mental health, HIV testing, and other life-saving services. Their closure is a significant setback for the Indian government's efforts to improve trans healthcare.

Families Say Trump Administration Violates Court Order On Youth Gender Treatments Δ1.76

Families of transgender teens and LGBT advocacy groups say the U.S. health agencies have violated a court ruling that blocked enforcement of President Donald Trump's executive order halting federal funding for pediatric gender-affirming care, which threatens to cut off funding immediately for healthcare providers offering such services. The U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued a memo that it "may consider" terminating federal grants if they provide transgender healthcare to minors. This move comes despite a court ruling blocking enforcement of Trump's order, and families want the judge to order agencies to withdraw the memo.

NGO's Newspaper Ad Asks Americans for Donations After Trump's Drastic Aid Cuts Δ1.75

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has launched a full-page advertisement in the New York Times, urging Americans to donate to support hundreds of millions of people in need following drastic cuts in U.S. foreign aid. The IRC claims that 46 government grants have received termination notices, which would deny critical services to at least 2 million people across multiple crisis zones. This move highlights the severe consequences of the Trump administration's "America First" policy on humanitarian aid.

Us Judge Further Blocks Trump's Order Curbing Youth Gender-Affirming Care Δ1.74

A federal judge has extended an order preventing the Trump administration from withholding federal funding from medical providers in four Democratic-led states that offer gender-affirming care to transgender youth. U.S. District Court Judge Lauren King deemed two of Trump's executive orders unconstitutional, stating they infringe on Congress's authority and violate the equal protection clause of the Fifth Amendment. This ruling highlights the ongoing legal battles surrounding the rights of transgender individuals and the provision of healthcare for minors.

Some Malaria, HIV, TB Programme Cuts Reversed by US, Groups Say Δ1.74

Several lifesaving health projects that recently faced abrupt termination of U.S. funding contracts have received reversal letters, although actual funding has yet to resume. Aid organizations express cautious optimism regarding the reversals, yet the lack of financial clarity hampers their ability to effectively resume critical services. The ongoing confusion stems from the Trump administration's review process, which has halted operations and jeopardized vital health programs across the globe.

Kosovo Businesses Under Threat From Trump's Usaid Freeze Δ1.73

Kosovo's economy heavily reliant on international aid, including USAID funding, is facing a significant blow as the Trump administration freezes US Agency for International Development (USAID) funding and seeks to drastically scale down the agency and all US foreign aid under its "America First" agenda. The halt in funding affects projects on democracy, energy, and inclusion, which are crucial for Kosovo's development and stability. The impact of this decision will be felt across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Humanitarian Aid Enters Crisis as Israel Halts Gaza Entry Δ1.73

The decision by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cease the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza marks a critical turning point in the region's humanitarian crisis. As phase one of the hostage deal comes to an end, the lack of essential supplies and medical care threatens the lives of thousands of Palestinians in need. The move is seen as a drastic measure by many, sparking concerns about the severity of Israel's stance on the situation.

US Judge Bars Trump Administration From Cutting NIH Research Funding Δ1.72

A U.S. District Judge has issued a nationwide injunction preventing the Trump administration from implementing significant cuts to federal grant funding for scientific research, which could have led to layoffs and halted critical clinical trials. The ruling came in response to lawsuits filed by 22 Democratic state attorneys general and medical associations, who argued that the proposed cuts were unlawful and detrimental to ongoing research efforts. The judge emphasized that the abrupt policy change posed an "imminent risk" to life-saving medical research and patient care.

RFK Jr. Shuts Americans Out of Health Decisions Despite Vow for Transparency Δ1.72

The advisory meetings that once allowed the public a window into vaccine decision-making have been canceled, removing transparency from the process. The committee's role is uncertain, leaving many to wonder if they will be able to provide input on future decisions, including the selection of COVID-19 strains. This move has sparked concerns about RFK Jr.'s commitment to radical transparency.

DEI Rollback Sparks Backlash at AT&T Δ1.72

AT&T's decision to drop pronoun pins, cancel Pride programs, and alter its diversity initiatives has sparked concerns among LGBTQ+ advocates and allies. The company's actions may be seen as a response to the pressure from former President Donald Trump's administration, which has been critical of DEI practices in the private sector. As companies like AT&T continue to make changes to their diversity initiatives, it remains to be seen how these shifts will impact employee morale and organizational culture.

Migrant Deportations Under Trump Spark Global Fear and Chaos Δ1.72

Gurpreet Singh's experience as an undocumented Indian immigrant is not unique. Thousands of people from around the world have attempted to cross into the US in search of a better life, only to be met with strict enforcement and deportation under President Trump's policies. The use of handcuffs and chains during deportations has sparked outrage globally, particularly among India's opposition parties. The Indian government had raised concerns with the US about these treatment methods, but ultimately allowed them to continue.

USAID Official Warns of Unnecessary Deaths From Trump's Foreign Aid Block, Then Says He's Been Put on Administrative Leave Δ1.72

Enrich warns of preventable deaths due to USAID dismantling as Trump's aid freeze affects Ebola, malaria, and tuberculosis efforts; DOGE blocks USAID payments despite waiver for lifesaving aid. The Trump administration's dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development will result in unnecessary deaths from withheld aid, according to a senior official. As a result, millions of people worldwide are at risk of suffering from preventable illnesses.

Supreme Court Rejects Trump Bid to Withhold $2bn in Foreign Aid Δ1.72

The US Supreme Court has rejected a request by the Trump administration to withhold nearly $2bn in payments to foreign aid organisations for work they have already performed for the government. The court upheld a lower court ruling ordering the administration to release the funds to contractors and grant recipients of the US Agency for International Development and the State Department. This decision marks a significant victory for President Barack Obama's aid programmes, which were previously targeted by Trump's cost-cutting initiatives.

UN Rights Chief Deeply Worried About Direction of US Policy Under Trump Δ1.71

The United Nations rights chief expressed deep concern on Monday about a "fundamental shift in direction" by the United States under President Donald Trump, warning that divisive rhetoric is being used to deceive and polarise people. Policies intended to protect people from discrimination are now labelled as discriminatory, while sweeping cuts to domestic social safety nets, climate finance, and foreign aid signal a massive setback for human rights protection. Civilians suffering from 120 global conflicts, Turk says the international system risks collapse due to such shifts.

Foreign Aid Groups Ask Us Supreme Court to Require Trump to Release Funds Δ1.71

Foreign aid organizations have petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to compel the Trump administration to release nearly $2 billion in withheld payments for work already completed by contractors and grantees associated with USAID and the State Department. A federal judge had mandated these payments, arguing that the ongoing funding freeze would cause irreparable harm to both the organizations and the vulnerable populations they serve. The case highlights the tension between governmental authority and the operational capabilities of independent agencies as foreign aid efforts face severe disruptions.

US Government Cuts Key Software Division without Warning. Δ1.71

The US government's General Services Administration department has dissolved its 18F unit, a software and procurement group responsible for building crucial login services like Login.gov. This move follows an ongoing campaign by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency to slash government spending. The effects of the cuts will be felt across various departments, as 18F collaborated with many agencies on IT projects.

US Supreme Court Won't Let Trump Withhold Payment to Foreign Aid Groups Δ1.71

The US Supreme Court has handed a setback to President Donald Trump's administration by upholding a lower court order that requires the release of funding to foreign aid organizations for work they already performed. The court's 5-4 decision allows the agencies to disburse the nearly $2 billion in frozen funds, which had been threatened with being withheld due to Trump's "America First" agenda. This ruling marks a significant victory for aid groups and humanitarian organizations that relied on these payments to continue their work around the world.

DEI Is Under Attack in US, Might Live On Under Different Name Δ1.71

The US government's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs are facing a significant backlash under President Donald Trump, with some corporations abandoning their own initiatives. Despite this, there remains a possibility that similar efforts will continue, albeit under different names and guises. Experts suggest that the momentum for inclusivity and social change may be difficult to reverse, given the growing recognition of the need for greater diversity and representation in various sectors.

Big Tech Cripples Vaginal Health Businesses with Embarrassing Product Restrictions Δ1.71

Amazon's restrictive policies have led to the shutdown of businesses focused on addressing women's vaginal health issues, according to a new report. The company has allegedly flagged products as "potentially embarrassing or offensive" without clear guidelines or transparency. This move is exacerbating the lack of representation and support for women's reproductive health.

Us Launches 'End Dei' Portal for Public Complaints About Diversity in Schools Δ1.71

The U.S. Education Department has launched a portal called "End DEI" where the public can complain about diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in publicly-funded K-12 schools. Parents, students, teachers, and community members can submit reports of alleged discrimination based on race or sex, which will be used to identify potential areas for investigation. The launch of this portal marks a significant shift in the administration's approach to addressing DEI initiatives, which have been targeted by President Trump since taking office.

Trump’s FDA Cuts Are Putting Drug Development at Risk. Δ1.71

Budget and staffing cuts at the Food and Drug Administration orchestrated by President Donald Trump could prevent new drugs “from being developed, approved, or commercialized in a timely manner, or at all,” according to dozens of annual reports sent by pharmaceutical companies to the Securities and Exchange Commission in late February. The impact on clinical trials and regulatory approvals is likely to be significant, potentially slowing down the development of life-saving treatments for serious diseases. As a result, patients may face longer wait times for new medications, which could have devastating consequences for public health.

Hundreds of US Diplomats Join Letter to Rubio to Protest Dismantling of USAID Δ1.71

The letter signed by hundreds of diplomats at the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development strongly protests the dismantling of USAID, saying its demise would undermine U.S. leadership and security and create a power vacuum that China and Russia could exploit. The freeze on foreign aid also endangers American diplomats and forces overseas while putting at risk the lives of millions abroad that depend on U.S. assistance. The letter has been filed with the department's internal "dissent channel," where diplomats can raise concerns about policy anonymously.

Trump Administration Cuts May Threaten AI Research Efforts. Δ1.70

The Trump Administration has dismissed several National Science Foundation employees with expertise in artificial intelligence, jeopardizing crucial AI research support provided by the agency. This upheaval, particularly affecting the Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships, has led to the postponement and cancellation of critical funding review panels, thereby stalling important AI projects. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from AI experts, including Nobel Laureate Geoffrey Hinton, who voiced concerns over the detrimental impact on scientific institutions.

Mass Layoffs to Hit Veterans' Affairs as Early as June Δ1.70

The Department of Veterans Affairs will begin mass layoffs, targeting more than 80,000 workers, in an effort to reduce the agency's size by at least a fifth. The planned cuts, which could be finalized by June, have been met with criticism from Democrats and some Republicans, who argue that they threaten veterans' health benefits. The layoffs are part of a broader effort by President Donald Trump and billionaire adviser Elon Musk to slash the federal government's workforce.

Trump Pick to Lead NIH Bhattacharya Vows to Tackle Chronic Disease Δ1.70

Bhattacharya backs vaccines despite past COVID criticism; Senators question Bhattacharya on vaccines, funding cuts; Bhattacharya expected to be confirmed after Senate hearing. His views clash with mainstream public health leaders and pose challenges for the NIH's funding and research integrity. As a vocal critic of lockdowns, Bhattacharya may face skepticism from experts over his approach to tackling chronic diseases.