International Recognition for Indian Leadership?

The Nobel Peace Prize is one of the most prestigious awards in the world, recognizing individuals or organizations that have made outstanding contributions to promoting peace and resolving conflicts. As the world eagerly awaits the announcement of the Nobel Peace Prize for 2023, Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, stands as a strong candidate deserving of this esteemed recognition. Drawing inspiration from past laureates, such as Barack Obama, who won the prize in 2009, it becomes evident that Modi's contributions align with the criteria set forth by Alfred Nobel.

Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009. He became the President of the United States on January 20, 2009. The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Obama on October 9, 2009, less than a year into his presidency. At the time of receiving the award, Obama had not yet achieved major tangible peace-related accomplishments, but the Nobel Committee acknowledged his potential to positively influence international relations and promote a more cooperative and peaceful world order.

Modi was elected with a majority mandate and took the oath as the Prime Minister of India on 18th May 2014. Since then, he has steadfastly dedicated himself and made an impact on both the international and domestic fronts. His performance has matched his potential during the last few years.

Let’s delve into some of the initiatives that has impacted at the Global level.

INTERNATIONAL IMPACT

Promotion of Fraternity between Nations:

One of the key criteria for the Nobel Peace Prize is the promotion of fraternity between nations, and Narendra Modi has demonstrated significant contributions towards achieving this goal. India's diplomacy under Modi's leadership has been marked by active engagement and fruitful initiatives.

Peacekeeping Missions: India has been actively involved in United Nations peacekeeping missions, consistently deploying troops to conflict zones worldwide. As the third-largest contributor of troops, India has played a crucial role in promoting stability and peace in regions such as Lebanon, South Sudan, and Congo.

Regional Cooperation and Connectivity: India's initiatives, like the International North-South Transport Corridor, have fostered regional cooperation and connectivity. This project aims to enhance trade and connectivity between India, Iran, and Russia, thus promoting economic integration and peaceful relations.

The Quad Alliance: India's participation in the Quad alliance, alongside the United States, Japan, and Australia, signifies its commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. By collaborating on issues related to security and regional stability, the Quad aims to strengthen peace and cooperation.

Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief: India has consistently provided humanitarian aid and disaster relief to neighbouring countries affected by natural disasters and conflicts. This includes assistance to countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, showcasing India's commitment to peace, stability, and solidarity in the region.

Advancement of Disarmament and Arms Control: Narendra Modi's contributions to the advancement of disarmament and arms control are substantial, aligning with another criterion for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation: India has long been an advocate for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, consistently calling for global efforts in this regard. Modi's strong stance in favour of eliminating all nuclear weapons reflects India's commitment to a safer and more peaceful world.

?"Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah, Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu, Ma Kashchit Dukhbhag Bhavet.": Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

("May all beings be happy. May all beings be free from illness. May all behold what is auspicious. May none suffer from sorrow.")

Involvement in Arms Control Initiatives: India actively participates in various arms control initiatives such as the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, the Biological Weapons Convention, and the Chemical Weapons Convention. By engaging in these forums, India emphasizes the importance of international regulations and accountability in the arms trade.

Promotion of Clean and Renewable Energy: Modi's government has prioritized the promotion of clean and renewable energy sources. By emphasizing the use of sustainable energy, India aims to reduce conflicts and tensions associated with traditional energy sources. India played a key role in launching the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in 2015, a global initiative aimed at promoting the use of solar energy. As of September 2021, over 100 countries had joined the alliance. Additionally, Modi's government has launched ambitious renewable energy programs, such as the National Solar Mission and the Wind Energy Mission, with the aim of increasing the share of clean energy in India's overall energy mix. India has also committed to reducing its carbon emissions intensity by 33-35% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels, as part of the Paris Agreement.

Advocacy for Stronger International Regulations: India has consistently advocated for greater transparency and accountability in the global arms trade. Modi has called for stronger international regulations on the transfer of conventional weapons to prevent their misuse and ensure peace and stability.

Holding and Promotion of Peace Congresses: India, under the leadership of Narendra Modi, has actively held and promoted peace congresses, reinforcing its commitment to peace and diplomacy. One notable example of Modi's dedication to fostering peace through multilateralism is his contribution to the success of the G20 during his presidency in 2023.

Advocacy for Multilateralism: India strongly supports the role of international organizations and multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges and promoting peace. As the host of the G20 summit in 2023, Narendra Modi played a crucial role in advocating for multilateralism and promoting dialogue among the world's major economies.

Through his efforts in promoting fraternity between nations, advancing disarmament and arms control, holding, and promoting peace congresses, and advocating for multilateralism, Modi has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to peace and diplomacy.

?Decision to Supply Covid Vaccines: A saving grace for millions worldwide.

Narendra Modi's decision to supply Covid vaccines, both within India and to the world, has been a defining moment in the global fight against the pandemic. Through his visionary leadership, India emerged as a crucial player in the vaccine distribution, saving millions of lives and alleviating the suffering caused by the devastating impact of the virus.

The Global Vaccine Supply Initiative:

In the face of the unprecedented Covid-19 crisis, Narendra Modi recognized the importance of international cooperation and solidarity to combat the pandemic. India, being one of the world's largest vaccine manufacturers, took a leadership role by initiating the Global Vaccine Supply Initiative. As of September 2021, India had supplied over 66 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to 95 countries, including low- and middle-income countries.

Supplying Vaccines Within India:

Modi's government swiftly launched a nationwide vaccination drive to ensure the well-being of Indian citizens. By mobilizing resources and establishing an efficient vaccination infrastructure, millions of doses were administered to frontline workers, healthcare professionals, and vulnerable populations. This initiative played a crucial role in protecting lives, reducing severe illness, and preventing the collapse of healthcare systems across the country.

Vaccine Diplomacy:

Recognizing that global solidarity was essential to defeating the pandemic, Modi's decision extended beyond India's borders. The government launched an ambitious vaccine diplomacy campaign, exporting vaccines to countries in need. This act of generosity and compassion showcased India's commitment to global well-being and its capability as the "Pharmacy of the World."

" Sarve sham svastirbhavatu, Sarve santu niramayah, Sarve bhadrani pashyantu, Ma kashchit dukhbhag bhavet." : Shanthi Mantra from Upanishad

"May everyone be healthy, May everyone be free from illness, May everyone see auspiciousness, May no one suffer."

COVAX Initiative and Bilateral Agreements:

India's contribution extended to the COVAX initiative, a global effort to ensure equitable vaccine distribution. Through bilateral agreements and partnerships, millions of vaccine doses were supplied to countries around the world, particularly to low-income nations. This proactive approach helped in curbing the spread of the virus and saving countless lives in regions with limited healthcare infrastructure.

Saving Lives and Preventing Illness:

By providing vaccines, India played a significant role in preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and fatalities. Vaccinations offered protection to individuals, particularly the elderly, frontline workers, and vulnerable populations, ensuring their safety and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.

Boosting Economic Recovery:

The widespread vaccination campaign facilitated the reopening of economies, both within India and in recipient countries. By curbing the transmission of the virus, vaccine distribution played a vital role in reviving economic activities, restoring livelihoods, and alleviating the socio-economic hardships faced by millions.

Modi's decision to supply Covid vaccines, both domestically and globally, has been a game-changer in the fight against the pandemic. His visionary leadership and commitment to global solidarity saved countless lives, reduced suffering, and paved the way for the recovery of nations. By providing vaccines, India exemplified the spirit of compassion, cooperation, and humanity in the face of adversity. This act of selflessness will be remembered as a shining example of how collective efforts can overcome the most challenging crises.

Yoga: Initiatives for long term Global Health

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative to establish International Yoga Day has had a profound global impact. In 2014, he proposed the idea to the United Nations, and since then, June 21st has been celebrated as International Yoga Day worldwide. This remarkable initiative has fostered a sense of unity and well-being among people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Yoga, an ancient practice originating from India, has gained immense popularity across the globe due to this initiative. International Yoga Day has provided a platform for individuals and communities worldwide to embrace the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga. It has become a catalyst for promoting a healthier lifestyle, stress reduction, and mindfulness, leading to improved overall well-being. Through this initiative, Modi has successfully placed India on the global map as the birthplace of yoga and has played a pivotal role in spreading its positive influence worldwide.

"Yoga-stha? kuru karmā?i sa?ga? tyaktvā dhana?jaya? Siddhy-asiddhyo? samo bhūtvā samatva? yoga ucyate?" (Bhagavad Gita 2.48)

("Perform your duties established in yoga by abandoning attachment and remaining even-minded in success and failure. Such equanimity is called yoga."

Furthermore, Modi's initiative for International Yoga Day has fostered global collaboration among nations, transcending geographical boundaries. It has encouraged countries to come together and celebrate the ancient practice of yoga, promoting a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding. Each year, on June 21st, millions of people around the world participate in yoga sessions, workshops, and events, organized in collaboration with governments, yoga institutions, and community organizations. This global collaboration has created a platform for knowledge exchange, cultural enrichment, and the sharing of best practices in yoga. It has enabled countries to learn from each other, adapt yoga to their unique cultural contexts, and develop innovative approaches to promote its benefits. The initiative has also paved the way for partnerships between India and various nations, fostering diplomatic ties and cultural exchanges. Through this collaborative effort, International Yoga Day has become a symbol of unity, peace, and shared values across borders, reinforcing the importance of international cooperation in promoting holistic well-being for all.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, events were held in 192 countries in the inaugural year. It is estimated that millions of people worldwide now practice yoga to enhance their quality of life.

G20 Presidency and the Essence of "One Earth, One Family, One Future"

G20 summit in 2023 was a significant milestone for India and the world. Under his leadership, the summit carried a powerful message derived from the Upanishads: "One Earth, One Family, One Future."?

The essence of "One Earth, One Family, One Future": The message "One Earth, One Family, One Future" encapsulates the profound wisdom found in the Upanishads, ancient texts of philosophical and spiritual teachings from India. At its core, this message emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the imperative for collective action to create a harmonious and sustainable world.

"Vasudaiva Kutumbakam" – Maha Upanishads

("The world is one family") ?

Narendra Modi's presidency of the G20 summit embraced the essence of "One Earth, One Family, One Future" in both rhetoric and action. Throughout the summit, he emphasized the need for global cooperation, dialogue, and inclusive growth. His vision aimed to bridge divides, foster unity, and create a better world for all.

By aligning the G20 agenda with the principles of "One Earth, One Family, One Future," Modi emphasized the need for collaborative action to tackle pressing global issues. His call for unity, dialogue, and collective responsibility resonated with leaders from around the world, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and shared purpose.

Narendra Modi's presidency of the G20 summit in 2023, guided by the message of "One Earth, One Family, One Future," showcased his commitment to global cooperation, unity, and sustainable development. This message, rooted in the wisdom of the Upanishads, reminds us of our interconnectedness, shared responsibilities, and the imperative to build a harmonious world.

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DOMESTIC IMPACT:

Narendra Modi, as the Prime Minister of India, has made significant contributions within the country to improve the quality of life for its citizens, particularly focusing on areas such as education, healthcare, Digital India, and women empowerment.

Let's delve into some of his notable initiatives:

Education:

·??????Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter): This initiative aims to promote the education and welfare of girls, addressing gender discrimination and female foeticide. It focuses on improving the child sex ratio, providing equal opportunities for education, and empowering girls through various welfare schemes.

·???????Skill India: The Skill India campaign aims to enhance the employability of India's youth by providing them with vocational training and skill development programs. It focuses on bridging the gap between industry requirements and workforce skills, leading to increased job opportunities and economic empowerment. As of September 2021, more than 10 million people had been trained under different skill development programs initiated by the government, as reported by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

Healthcare:

·??????Ayushman Bharat: Launched in 2018, Ayushman Bharat is the world's largest healthcare scheme, providing health insurance coverage to over 500 million vulnerable and poor individuals. It aims to ensure access to quality healthcare services and reduce the financial burden on families during medical emergencies. The program provides coverage of up to INR 5 lakhs (approximately USD 7000) per family per year, ensuring that beneficiaries can access necessary healthcare services without incurring substantial out-of-pocket expenses.

·??????Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: This cleanliness campaign focuses on improving sanitation and hygiene across the country. By constructing toilets, promoting waste management practices, and creating awareness about cleanliness, the initiative aims to improve public health and reduce diseases caused by poor sanitation. As of September 2021, over 11 crore (110 million) toilets had been constructed across rural India under the program, according to the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation. As of September 2021, over 6.4 lakh (640,000) villages, 699 districts, and 35 states/union territories had been declared ODF, as reported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

Digital India:

The Digital India campaign aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.

·??????Digital Infrastructure: Expanding broadband connectivity to rural areas, creating digital access points, and increasing the availability of government services online.

·??????Digital Literacy: Promoting digital literacy programs to ensure citizens can utilize digital technologies effectively.

·??????E-Governance: Digitizing government services, including issuing digital documents, e-governance portals, and promoting online transactions.

As of September 2021, India had the second-largest number of internet users globally, with over 624 million internet users, as reported by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). As of September 2021, India had more than 1.17 billion wireless subscribers, according to the TRAI. The availability of affordable smartphones and internet data plans has enabled more people to access digital services and participate in the digital economy.

The members of the G20 have shown increasing interest in the Digital India initiative and have expressed a desire to launch similar initiatives in their own countries. G20 members have sought to deepen their understanding of Digital India and its impact. They have engaged in knowledge sharing and collaborative efforts with India to learn from its experiences and best practices in digital transformation. This growing awareness and interest among G20 countries indicate the significance of Digital India as a model for other nations to embrace digital technologies for economic growth, social development, and improved governance.

Women Empowerment:

·??????Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: This scheme aims to provide free LPG connections to women from poor households, improving their health and reducing indoor air pollution caused by traditional cooking fuels. As of September 2021, over 8 crore (80 million) LPG connections had been distributed under the scheme, according to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The shift from traditional cooking fuels to LPG under PMUY has positive environmental implications. The use of LPG reduces the demand for firewood and contributes to the conservation of forests and biodiversity. Additionally, the adoption of LPG as a cooking fuel helps mitigate greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional fuels.

·???????Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: As mentioned earlier, this initiative aims to empower girls by promoting their education and addressing gender discrimination.

·??????Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: A savings scheme designed to encourage parents to save for their girl child's education and marriage expenses.

These are just a few examples of Narendra Modi's initiatives within India aimed at improving the quality of life, education, healthcare, digital connectivity, and women empowerment. His vision and efforts have focused on inclusive development, social welfare, and providing equal opportunities to all sections of society. While the impact and effectiveness of these initiatives may vary, they reflect a commitment to uplifting the nation and improving the lives of its citizens.

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, the Nobel Committee evaluates candidates for the Nobel Prize based on their actions and achievements, prioritizing concrete contributions and lasting impact over intentions or ideals. Alongside these primary criteria, the Committee also considers other factors including efforts to reduce poverty and inequality, promotion of human rights and democracy, as well as environmental work and combating climate change.

In light of these criteria, Prime Minister Modi's performance stands out. Unlike the previously mentioned case where the Prize was awarded based on potential, Modi has demonstrated tangible accomplishments in all these areas. His contributions to reducing poverty and inequality, his efforts in promoting human rights and democracy, and his commitment to environmental work and combating climate change have all left a lasting impact.

Thus, it is evident that Modi's work aligns closely with the criteria set by the Nobel Committee, highlighting his deservingness for recognition. His performance-oriented approach has made a substantial difference in these crucial areas, solidifying his place among those who have made significant contributions to the cause of peace and betterment of humankind globally.