India's G20 Presidency: India's Story - A Story of Values, Perspectives and Sustainable Development

Introduction

The G20 is a group of 20 major economies that meet annually to discuss global issues and coordinate policies. The G20 accounts for about 80% of the world's GDP, 75% of the world's trade, and 60% of the world's population. The G20 summit is an important platform for global leadership and cooperation.

In 2023, India assumed the presidency of the G20 for the first time. India's presidency was a watershed moment for the country, as it was an opportunity to showcase its economic and technological progress, as well as its commitment to sustainable development. India's presidency was guided by the motto "Fulfill our responsibilities with a human centric approach." India chose five priority areas for its presidency: people, planet, prosperity, peace, and partnership. India also highlighted some of the key themes that reflect its vision and values, such as sustainable food systems, stakeholder over shareholder perspective, global safety and security, and one earth, one family.

This article aims to delve into India’s perspectives and how India looks things in its glasses, and its unique approach to the world. It wasn't just about showcasing economic and technological prowess; it goes beyond, painting a compelling picture of India's commitment to a sustainable future for all.

What is Indias story?

India is a diverse and vibrant nation with a rich history and culture. It is the world's largest democracy and the fastest growing major economy. It is also a responsible global player that upholds the values of peace, cooperation and multilateralism. India's story is one of resilience, innovation and aspiration.

What are Indias perspectives?

India's perspectives are shaped by its civilizational ethos, its democratic ideals and its developmental goals. India believes in the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which means the world is one family. India respects the diversity and sovereignty of all nations and seeks to foster a rules-based and inclusive international order. India also strives to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth for its people and the planet.

How does India look at things in its glasses?

India looks at things in its glasses with a sense of realism and optimism. India recognizes the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century and is ready to contribute to the global common good. India also has a vision of a self-reliant and confident nation that can fulfill its potential and aspirations. India's glasses are clear and bright.

How did India depict its true image at the G20 summit?

India depicted its true image at the G20 summit by articulating its views and interests on various global issues. India also showcased its cultural and spiritual heritage and its soft power. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with other world leaders and expressed India's willingness to work with them for a better future. India showed a new direction to the world by demonstrating its leadership, partnership and solidarity.

Key Themes of Indias G20 Presidency:

• 1. Sustainable Food Systems (Saatvik| Vegetarian| Millets)

One of the key themes of India's G20 presidency was the importance of sustainable food systems. India is a major producer and consumer of food, and it has a long history of vegetarianism and the use of millets. During the summit, India called for a global shift towards more sustainable food production and consumption. India also hosted a global conference on agroecology and organic farming, which showcased India's best practices and innovations in this field.

India's emphasis on sustainable food systems was motivated by several factors. First, India recognizes that the current food system is unsustainable and inefficient, as it contributes to environmental degradation, climate change, and food insecurity. Second, India believes that sustainable food systems are essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially the ones related to ending hunger, improving health, and ensuring environmental sustainability. Third, India wants to share its rich and diverse culinary heritage with the world, and to promote the benefits of vegetarianism and the use of millets. India considers these foods to be more nutritious, eco-friendly, and culturally appropriate than meat and other animal products.

India's advocacy for sustainable food systems was well received by the other G20 members and the international community. India's leadership in this area helped to raise awareness and generate action on this crucial issue. India also demonstrated its willingness to cooperate and learn from other countries on this topic. India's presidency also paved the way for the upcoming UN Food Systems Summit in 2021, which will further advance the global agenda on sustainable food systems.

• 2. Stakeholder over Shareholder Perspective (Green development |Climate Change)

Another key theme of India's G20 presidency was the importance of stakeholder over shareholder perspective. This means that businesses should be accountable to all stakeholders, including their employees, customers, and the environment. India believes that this approach is essential for building a more sustainable and equitable world.

India's emphasis on stakeholder over shareholder perspective was driven by several factors. First, India recognizes that the current model is flawed and unfair, as it prioritizes profits over people and planet. Second, India believes that stakeholder perspective is more aligned with its own ethos and values, such as democracy, diversity, and dignity. Third, India wants to encourage businesses to adopt more responsible and inclusive practices, such as social and environmental reporting, corporate social responsibility, and social innovation.

India's advocacy for stakeholder over shareholder perspective was supported by the other G20 members and the international community. India's leadership in this area helped to create a common understanding and a shared vision on this issue. India also showcased its own achievements and initiatives in this field, such as the Companies Act, which mandates companies to spend 2% of their profits on social welfare, and the National Voluntary Guidelines on Social, Environmental and Economic Responsibilities of Business, which provide a framework for businesses to adopt stakeholder perspective. India's presidency also contributed to the ongoing global dialogue on stakeholder capitalism, which aims to reform the current system and make it more humane and sustainable.

• 3. Global Safety and Security (War| Pandemic| Trust)

Another key theme of India's G20 presidency was the need to pursue global safety and security. This means that countries should focus on ensuring the security of their citizens, rather than simply pursuing economic growth at all costs. India believes that this is the only way to build a sustainable and inclusive future.

India's emphasis on global safety and security was influenced by several factors. Second, India believes that global safety and security can only be achieved through multilateralism and cooperation, rather than unilateralism and confrontation. Third, India wants to play a more active and constructive role in the global arena, and to contribute to the maintenance of international peace and order.

India's advocacy for global safety and security was appreciated by the other G20 members and the international community. India's leadership in this area helped to foster a sense of solidarity and trust among the countries. India's presidency also facilitated the exchange of views and the coordination of actions on this issue, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has posed unprecedented challenges to the global safety and security.

• 4. One Earth, One Family (Interconnectedness)

India also promoted the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or "One Earth, One Family." This is an ancient Indian philosophy that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living beings. India believes that this philosophy is essential for building a more sustainable and peaceful world.

India's promotion of one earth, one family was inspired by several factors. First, India recognizes that the world is facing a common destiny, and that the actions of one country affect the others. Second, India believes that one earth, one family is more compatible with its own culture and tradition, which value harmony, tolerance, and respect for diversity. Third, India wants to inspire the world to adopt a more holistic and compassionate worldview, which can help to overcome the divisions and conflicts that plague the world.

India's promotion of one earth, one family was welcomed by the other G20 members and the international community. India's leadership in this area helped to create a positive and optimistic atmosphere at the summit. India also exemplified its own commitment to this philosophy, by offering its support and cooperation to the other countries, especially the developing and the least developed ones. India also shared its own experiences and lessons on this topic, such as its efforts to preserve its rich biodiversity, its achievements in renewable energy, and its promotion of yoga and meditation. India's presidency also encouraged the other countries to adopt a more cooperative and inclusive approach to the global issues, such as climate change, trade, and development.

• 5. Inclusivity

Inclusivity lies at the core of India's approach to global governance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently emphasized the principle that no one should be left behind and that every voice deserves to be heard. India's commitment to inclusivity is not confined to rhetoric but is evident in its actions. One significant initiative undertaken by India is its efforts to integrate Africa into the G20 dialogue. Recognizing the importance of representing diverse perspectives and ensuring global cooperation, India has advocated for greater involvement of African nations in the G20 discussions. By amplifying the voices of developing nations, particularly those from Africa, India has sought to enhance the inclusivity and effectiveness of the G20 platform, fostering a more representative and equitable global governance framework. Through initiatives like these, India reaffirms its commitment to upholding the principles of inclusivity, diversity, and solidarity on the world stage.

• 6. Sustainable Technology and Economic Development

The country's success in the space program, with missions like Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission) and Gaganyaan (human spaceflight program), highlighted its technological prowess. Additionally, India's thriving digital economy, with initiatives like Aadhaar (national identity card) and UPI (digital payments platform), demonstrated its economic progress and its potential to be a leader in the digital age. This multifaceted display positioned India as a nation not only committed to a sustainable future but also at the forefront of technological and economic innovation.

• 7. Indias Trajectory: A $10 Trillion Economy

With a strong growth trajectory, India aspires to reach a $10 trillion economy. This vision goes hand-in-hand with fostering sustainable practices and maintaining an open trade policy, ensuring responsible growth within the global economic framework.

Conclusion

India's G20 presidency was a success. It helped to raise India's profile on the global stage and to promote its vision of sustainable development. India also demonstrated its leadership and its contribution to the global issues and the global governance. India's presidency was guided by its own ethos and values, which reflect its ancient wisdom and its modern aspirations. India's presidency was also marked by its spirit of cooperation and partnership, which fostered a sense of trust and confidence among the countries. India's presidency was a story of sustainable development, which can inspire the world to follow its example and to work together for a better future.

Views expressed in this article are my personal and not necessarily reflect that of my employer.

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