"India's G20 Presidency: Leading Global Change with 'One Earth, One Family, One Future'

"India's G20 Presidency: Nurturing Global Unity and Sustainable Progress"

 

On December 1st, 2022, history was made as India assumed the presidency of the G20 forum, succeeding Indonesia. This momentous occasion carries immense significance, as India, the world's largest democracy and fastest-growing economy, steps into a leadership role that will shape the future of global cooperation and sustainable development.

 

Under India's G20 presidency, a transformative initiative called Amrit Kaal has been unveiled, with a particular focus on the LiFE movement. Amrit Kaal seeks to forge a united global future, fostering a shared sense of responsibility for our planet and its inhabitants. The theme encapsulates this vision: 'One Earth, One Family, One Future,' echoing the profound words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This theme draws inspiration from the ancient Sanskrit scripture, the Maha Upanishad, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all life forms on Earth and beyond.

 

India's approach to its G20 presidency is marked by clarity of purpose and a commitment to sustainable development. It seeks to promote a rules-based international order, peace, and equitable growth for all. In the lead-up to the 2023 Summit, India has planned over 200 events to bolster its agenda and reinforce the six thematic priorities of its presidency.

 

The G20, a group of 19 countries and the European Union, was initially formed in 1999 as a platform for Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors to address global economic and financial issues. Today, it represents almost two-thirds of the world's population, 75% of global trade, and 85% of global GDP. Following the global financial crisis of 2007, the G20 evolved into a forum for Heads of State/Government, earning recognition as the "premier forum for international economic cooperation."

 

The G20 operates through two main tracks: the Finance Track, involving finance ministers and central bank governors, and the Sherpa Track. Sherpas, appointed as personal envoys of member nations' leaders, play a pivotal role in overseeing year-round negotiations, shaping the summit's agenda, and coordinating the substantive work of the G20. Working groups within both tracks are dedicated to addressing specific global priorities, including green development, climate finance, inclusive growth, digital economy, public infrastructure, technology transformation, and women's empowerment for socio-economic progress.

 

As India assumes the G20 presidency, it marks a historic milestone, with New Delhi set to host the G20 Leaders' Summit in 2023, welcoming 43 Heads of Delegations—the largest gathering in the forum's history. India, deeply committed to democracy and multilateralism, aims to find practical global solutions that benefit all nations, embodying the timeless principle of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," which translates to "the world is one family."

 

The G20 Summit, held annually with a rotating presidency, operates without a permanent secretariat and relies on the troika system. In 2023, the troika comprises Indonesia, Brazil, and India. The summit caps a series of meetings taking place from December 2022 to February 2023, with potential host cities including Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai, Guwahati, Indore, Jodhpur, Khajuraho, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Pune, Rann of Kutch, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, and Udaipur.

 

India's G20 presidency revolves around the theme of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future,' emphasizing the importance of all life forms and their interdependence on our planet. This theme aligns perfectly with the LiFE movement, promoting environmentally conscious practices at both the individual and national levels, paving the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.

 

India's G20 priorities are clear and forward-looking:

 

1.      Green Development, Climate Finance & LiFE:

India is committed to addressing climate change and ensuring just energy transitions, with a focus on climate finance and sustainable practices through LiFE.

 

2.      Accelerated, Inclusive & Resilient Growth:

Structural transformation, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, labor rights, skills development, and inclusive agricultural value chains are at the forefront of India's economic agenda.

 

3.      Accelerating Progress on SDGs:

India renews its commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, with a particular focus on mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

4.      Technological Transformation & Digital Public Infrastructure:

India advocates for a human-centric approach to technology, knowledge-sharing, and digital public infrastructure, fostering financial inclusion and tech-enabled development.

 

5.      Multilateral Institutions for the 21st Century:

India seeks to reform and modernize multilateralism, creating a more accountable, inclusive, and representative international system equipped to address 21st-century challenges.

 

6.      Women-led Development:

India places significant emphasis on inclusive growth and women's empowerment to drive socio-economic development and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

 

In this pivotal moment, India's G20 presidency represents a beacon of hope for a united, sustainable, and prosperous future, embracing the values of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' and inspiring the world to come together as one global family. As we embark on this journey, let us work hand in hand to create a better tomorrow for all of humanity.