Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting through a video message, extending a warm welcome to Varanasi, the oldest living city and a symbol of democracy. He emphasized the historical significance of Kashi, which has been a center of knowledge, culture, and spirituality for centuries, serving as a convergence point for people from all over India. Prime Minister Modi expressed his delight that the G20 Development agenda has reached Kashi, highlighting India’s commitment to global development.
The Significance of Kashi and India’s Diverse Heritage:
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the significance of Kashi, highlighting its historical importance as a center of knowledge, discussion, debate, culture, and spirituality. As a city that represents India’s diverse heritage, Kashi serves as a melting pot of ideas and a symbol of unity. The Prime Minister invited delegates to experience the essence of Kashi and immerse themselves in its vibrant spirit.
Development Challenges for the Global South:
Recognizing the challenges faced by the Global South, Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the severe impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic and the disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions. He emphasized that the decisions made by the G20 Development Ministers are crucial for humanity as a whole. The Prime Minister stressed the collective responsibility to prevent the Sustainable Development Goals from falling behind and urged the Global South to send a strong message to the world regarding the necessary action plan.
Comprehensive and Sustainable Efforts for SDGs:
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of comprehensive, inclusive, fair, and sustainable efforts to achieve the SDGs. He called for increased investment in fulfilling the goals and finding solutions to address the debt risks faced by many countries. The Prime Minister also emphasized the need for reforming multilateral financial institutions to expand eligibility criteria and ensure accessibility to finance for those in need. He shared India’s success in improving the lives of people in over a hundred Aspirational Districts and encouraged delegates to study this model of development.
Bridging the Data Divide for Inclusive Development:
The Prime Minister stressed the significance of high-quality data for meaningful policy-making, efficient resource allocation, and effective public service delivery. He highlighted the democratization of technology as a crucial tool to bridge the data divide. Prime Minister Modi shared India’s experience in digitalization, where technology has been used to empower people, make data accessible, and ensure inclusivity. He expressed India’s willingness to share this experience with partner countries and encouraged tangible actions to promote data-driven discourse, development, and delivery in developing nations.
Promoting Pro-Planet Lifestyles and Climate Action:
Prime Minister Modi underlined India’s respect for nature and its traditional pro-planet lifestyle. He mentioned the launch of Mission Life, a group working on developing a set of High-Level Principles in collaboration with the UN Secretary-General. The Prime Minister emphasized that these principles would significantly contribute to climate action, demonstrating India’s commitment to a sustainable future.
Women Empowerment and Women-Led Development:
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of gender equality and women empowerment in achieving the SDGs. He emphasized that India’s focus extends beyond women’s empowerment to women-led development. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that women play a pivotal role in setting the development agenda and are agents of growth and change. He called upon everyone to adopt a game-changing Action Plan for Women-led Development.
Embracing the Spirit of Kashi:
Prime Minister Modi concluded his address by reminding the delegates to experience the spirit of Kashi beyond meeting rooms. He encouraged them to explore and embrace the essence of the city, including witnessing the Ganga Aarti (a religious ritual) and visiting Sarnath, a significant Buddhist site. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that these experiences would inspire the delegates to achieve their desired results in promoting Agenda 2030.
