India’s Key Role in the G20 Forum
The G20, a premier global forum for economic cooperation, brings together the world’s largest economies to address pressing global challenges. As one of its key members, India has consistently leveraged its position to voice the concerns of developing nations, particularly the Global South. During the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s remarkable achievements in poverty alleviation and its commitment to fostering sustainable development. His remarks underscored India’s unique approach of blending traditional wisdom with modern strategies to address global issues like hunger, poverty, and climate resilience.
India’s Approach: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Combating Hunger and Poverty
In his address on “Social Inclusion and the Fight Against Hunger and Poverty,” PM Modi emphasized India’s success in lifting 250 million people out of poverty. This milestone is a testament to targeted policy interventions, social welfare programs, and inclusive growth strategies. Modi outlined India’s efforts to provide free rations to 800 million people, showcasing the government’s focus on ensuring food security for its vulnerable populations.
Promoting Sustainable Agriculture
Central to India’s strategy is its emphasis on sustainable agriculture. PM Modi highlighted the promotion of organic farming and climate-resilient crops, including millets, known as Shree Anna in India. These initiatives not only address food security but also help mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture. By returning to traditional practices and integrating them with modern techniques, India is setting an example for sustainable development.
Global Challenges and the Role of the G20
Addressing the Needs of the Global South
PM Modi emphasized that the food, fuel, and fertilizer crises triggered by global conflicts disproportionately affect countries in the Global South. Calling on G20 leaders to prioritize these issues, Modi reiterated India’s commitment to the principle of “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” a theme introduced during India’s G20 presidency in 2023. He urged that the discussions at the summit remain focused on the challenges and aspirations of the developing world.
A Global Coalition Against Hunger
One of the summit’s highlights was the formation of a global coalition to combat hunger and poverty, backed by over 80 countries. Modi hailed this initiative as a commendable step toward ensuring food security and improving the lives of marginalized communities worldwide. India’s pledge to fully support the coalition reflects its leadership in driving global efforts for inclusive development.
India’s G20 Legacy: Progress and Aspirations
Women-Led Development
India’s presidency of the G20 in 2023 placed a strong emphasis on women-led development. PM Modi highlighted how over 300 million women micro-entrepreneurs have been connected to banks and provided access to credit. This focus on empowering women aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and demonstrates India’s commitment to social inclusion and economic equity.
Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals
During his address, PM Modi expressed satisfaction with the prioritization of SDGs during India’s G20 presidency. By focusing on inclusive development, youth empowerment, and climate action, India has laid the groundwork for long-term sustainable progress. The nation’s ability to bridge traditional values with forward-looking policies has been instrumental in shaping a vision for global cooperation.
The Global Impact of India’s G20 Vision
India’s leadership at the G20 summit underscores its role as a champion of the developing world. By addressing hunger, poverty, and the impacts of climate change, India has demonstrated its commitment to building a more equitable and sustainable global order. The initiatives outlined by PM Modi reflect a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of global challenges and the need for collective action.
One Earth, One Family, One Future
As a vital member of the G20, India continues to set an example of inclusive growth and sustainable development. PM Modi’s vision, rooted in the ancient Sanskrit principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (“The world is one family”), resonates with the forum’s goals of global cooperation and shared prosperity.
India’s focus on empowering marginalized communities, promoting sustainable agriculture, and addressing the priorities of the Global South has elevated its stature on the world stage. By championing initiatives like the global coalition against hunger and advancing SDGs, India is not just contributing to global progress but also inspiring other nations to adopt a balanced approach to development. As the G20 looks to the future, India’s leadership and innovative strategies will remain a cornerstone of its collective success.
(With inputs from agencies)
