Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s success at the Delhi G20 Summit was a climax of India’s stable economic and technological and diplomatic acumen. India is one of the world’s largest democracies and the fastest growing economy and, according to the IMF, the bright spot in the otherwise dark horizon. Hence PM Modi’s role at the summit was pivotal in shaping global policies and fostering international cooperation. India’s convening ability and success at generating a consensus at the G20 Summit has set a new extremely high standard, difficult to emulate.
Prime Minister Modi has set a new benchmark of reforms and governance with “India First” in every policy formulation. The world has acknowledged India’s great leap in economic reforms, health care, ease of doing business, tech driven digital India, ‘nari-shakti’, environmental priority, infrastructural growth and an overall growth in all sectors.
Hence, India’s Presidency was inclusive, decisive and action oriented with the Prime Minister’s drive, as the voice of the global summit, was for inclusive growth, accelerated sustainable development goals, health-nutrition, green development in the context of climate change, technological development, public infrastructure, women empowerment and gender equality.
India’s economic growth to new heights, and ambitious initiatives like “Make in India” and “Digital India” were showcased as models for sustainable development. PM Modi shared India’s experience in handling economic challenges, India’s economic resilience and stability. This was aptly proved to all delegates during their visits to over 60 locations during their G20 meetings. The Prime Minister’s vision for an inclusive and sustainable global economy found favour with many world leaders.
India has been a global leader on the critical issue of climate change. The Prime Minister’s efforts in renewable energy, with initiatives like the International Solar Alliance, commitment to 500 GW of clean green energy by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2070 received accolades. PM Modi called for a collective approach to reduce carbon emissions and stressed the need for technology transfer to developing nations. His commitment to energizing a green future for the world and his push for clean energy solutions contributed to the summit’s focus on climate action.
Prime Minister Modi’s efforts in addressing regional conflicts, promoting peaceful resolutions, enhancing connectivity and economic cooperation within the region were recognized as important steps towards fostering stability and prosperity. He also successfully engaged in important bilateral meetings with world leaders on trade, security, and cooperation in various sectors.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic remained a topic of discussion at the G20 Summit. The patriotic and deft manner in which PM Modi led and guided the country during the Covid-19 crisis was unparalled and inspirational. Vaccine Maitri was the largest vaccination programme where 2.2 billion doses were administered. India was the pharmacy of the world and sent medical equipment and pharma products to several nations and vaccines to over 250 countries. These efforts were truly lauded. PM Modi also emphasized the importance of preparedness for future pandemics, calling for a collaborative approach to strengthen global health systems. This approach showcased India’s dedication to collective well being and its capacity and willingness to provide solutions to global challenges.
Digital India played a significant role in shaping the narrative of India’s participation in the G20 Summit. Digital diplomacy helped in conveying India’s positions and achievements directly to the international community. Discussion on digital transformation, cyber security and innovation enabled India to collaborate with other countries.
India’s rich cultural heritage was omnipresent and was highlighted during the G20 Summit and all prior meetings. Prime Minister Modi’s emphasis on yoga and traditional Indian practices as means of promoting physical and mental well-being were very well taken by the global audience. This cultural diplomacy served to enhance India’s soft power. Prime Minister Modi’s message of unity in diversity and the importance of embracing different cultures and traditions was well-received. It served as a reminder of the importance of tolerance and inclusivity in a globalized world as also a commitment to finding common grounds among nations.
India’s success in the G20 summit extended to its commitment to inclusive development. India’s experience with large-scale poverty alleviation programs, such as the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, the importance of social safety nets and targeted interventions to ensure that economic growth benefits all segments of society echoed with many G20 members facing similar challenges.
PM Modi also chose the ideal team – “Team Bharat” – which ably assisted in all the efforts that went into making the Delhi G20 a grand success.
The Prime Minister’s success at the G20 Summit was, hence, due to his inspirational vision, sterling leadership, unflinching resolve, sincerity of purpose, commitment to global issues and a rules based international order and deft diplomacy. World leaders acclaimed that India’s presidency came at a time when the world is facing innumerable challenges. There will certainly be solved by PM Modi’s guiding principles of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayaas.
The author is a former Chairman, Haryana Public Service Commission. His views are personal.