Prime Minister’s G7 Address

A Call for Resilient World for Generations to Come

Ritesh Kumar

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in his address at the Working Session 7 of the G7 Summit in Hiroshima, shed light on the imperatives of climate change, environmental conservation, and energy security that demand the world's unwavering attention. With a resounding call to broaden the discourse surrounding climate change, PM Modi underscored the pressing need for a comprehensive approach that transcends narrow confines and unites the nations in a shared responsibility to combat these global challenges. As the G7's influence on the global stage stems from the collective economic and political power of its member countries, shaping global policies, agendas, and diplomatic outcomes, PM Modi's address at this forum was seen as one having the potential to galvanise unprecedented global efforts toward environmental harmony.

Expanding Horizons: PM Modi's observation that an exclusive focus on energy-related facets of climate change is a myopic endeavour highlighted the need to widen our lens. By urging the international community to embrace a holistic outlook, he advocated for the incorporation of diverse perspectives from various domains, such as agriculture, transportation, and waste management. This perspective aligned seamlessly with the growing realisation that climate change is an intricate tapestry of interconnected challenges, demanding interdisciplinary cooperation and symbiotic problem-solving.

Synergising Global Efforts: The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to spotlight India's dynamic strides in environmental stewardship. Through pathbreaking initiatives like Mission LiFE, International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission Hydrogen, Biofuel Alliance, and Big Cat Alliance, India has emerged as a forerunner of sustainable development on the global stage. These transformative endeavours underscore the significance of collaboration, knowledge exchange, and technological advancements as catalysts for combating climate change and safeguarding our fragile ecosystem. By leveraging its rich experience and expertise, India seeks not only to enhance its own resilience but also to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for nations aspiring to harmonise development with environmental preservation.

India's Net Zero Trajectory: PM Modi's visionary roadmap toward a net-zero emissions trajectory by 2070, coupled with ambitious plans to bolster renewable energy capacity to approximately 500 Megawatts by 2030, epitomises India's unwavering commitment to the environment. These bold commitments bear testimony to the nation's firm resolve to forge a sustainable developmental trajectory, wherein the principles of conservation and ecological balance are firmly entrenched. Notably, India's multifaceted approach to sustainable development is evident in initiatives such as the "Per Drop More Crop" mission, which aims to safeguard water resources, and the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions within its vast railway network by 2030. These endeavours exemplify India's steadfast dedication to nurturing a greener, more resilient future for all.

Technology Transfer for Global Synergy: Emphasising the intrinsic link between technology transfer, affordable financing, and effective climate action, PM Modi's clarion call for support to developing nations resonates deeply with the values of equity and shared responsibilities. Recognising the divergent capacities and resource limitations that nations grapple with, his resolute plea for 'Green and Clean Technology' supply chain resilience underscores the urgency of fostering an inclusive framework that ensures the success of environmental initiatives worldwide. Indeed, the realisation that climate change knows no boundaries, and its consequences spare no nation, mandates a united front in confronting this existential challenge. By fostering a spirit of cooperation and compassion, the global community can transcend borders, bridging gaps and unlocking the transformative potential that lies within. As we navigate this perilous terrain, let us heed out Prime Minister's call, fortifying our collective will and embarking on a collective journey toward a greener, more resilient world for generations yet unborn.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi also participated in the Working Session 6: Working Together to Address Multiple Crises (including Food, Health, Development, Gender) of the G7 Summit. During his speech, PM Modi not only highlighted India's position as a key global player but also emphasised the country's determination to play a vital role in shaping the international agenda.

Global Collaboration for Food Security, Resilient Healthcare, Sustainable Development, Women's Empowerment

Strengthening Fertiliser Supply Chain: One of the key aspects of PM Modi's speech was the emphasis on leveraging India's expertise and resources to promote global food security. Recognising the importance of an inclusive food system, the Prime Minister stressed the need to prioritise the world's most vulnerable populations, particularly marginalised farmers. By calling for the strengthening of global fertiliser supply chains and addressing political obstacles within them, PM Modi demonstrated India's willingness to collaborate with other nations for the collective benefit.

Natural Farming: PM Modi proposed an innovative approach to agricultural practices by advocating for natural farming as an alternative to traditional fertilisers. By harnessing the power of digital technology and making it accessible to farmers worldwide, the Prime Minister envisaged a future where organic food is not merely a fashion statement or a commodity but is intrinsically linked to nutrition and health. This forward-thinking approach aligns with India's commitment to sustainable development and highlights the country's willingness to explore innovative solutions

Promoting Millets: PM Modi also emphasised the significance of millets in addressing global challenges related to nutrition, climate change, water conservation, and food security. Millets are known for their resilience to climatic variability and their ability to grow in harsh conditions with minimal water and input requirements. By promoting millet cultivation, countries can foster climateresilient agricultural practices, reducing the vulnerability of farmers to climate change impacts. This contributes to sustainable agriculture and ensures the stability of food production in the face of changing climatic conditions. As India champions the cause of millets on the global stage, it establishes itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture and food systems. By promoting millets, India can contribute to global efforts aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to food security, nutrition, climate action, and biodiversity conservation. This enhances India's international reputation and strengthens its collaborations with other countries and international forums.

Traditional Medicines: PM Modi addressed the pressing issue of health security by calling for the establishment of resilient healthcare systems as a priority and emphasised the importance of holistic healthcare and the dissemination of credible information regarding traditional medicine. By advocating for cooperation and joint research in the field of healthcare, PM Modi emphasised India's traditional knowledge and its potential contribution to global health outcomes. The Prime Minister also stressed the principle of "One Earth - One Health," underscoring the interdependence of human and environmental wellbeing. He highlighted the need for digital health solutions and universal health coverage, aligning with India's efforts to leverage technology for equitable healthcare access. PM Modi's emphasis on the mobility of doctors and nurses, acknowledging their crucial role in global health, showcases India's commitment to international cooperation and solidarity in strengthening the global healthcare system in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Democratisation of Technology: PM Modi articulated his vision for a development model that does not hinder progress in developing countries. By challenging the prevailing consumerism-inspired development paradigm, he emphasised the importance of holistic resource utilisation and the democratisation of technology. This viewpoint highlights India's desire to bridge the gap between technology, development, and democracy women at the grassroots level. By mentioning specific initiatives, such as a railway station run entirely by transgender people, PM Modi demonstrated India's commitment to inclusivity and social progress

Institutional Reforms, International Law, and Wisdom of Lord Buddha for Global Harmony

During the G7 'Working Session 9: Towards a Peaceful, Stable and Prosperous World,' Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi highlighted India's unwavering dedication to fostering global peace, stability, and prosperity. His emphasis on humanity and the pursuit of human values underscored the importance of transcending political and economic interests in addressing global challenges. His speech touched upon the need for institutional reforms, the significance of peaceful resolution, and the timeless wisdom of Lord Buddha.

Interconnectedness and the Impact on Developing Nations: In today's interconnected world, crises and conflicts in one region inevitably reverberate across borders, affecting nations worldwide. Developing countries, already grappling with limited resources, bear the brunt of these challenges. PM Modi astutely observed that the food, fuel, and fertiliser crisis has disproportionately impacted developing nations. Recognising the urgency of the situation, the PM expressed India's determination to contribute to resolving these crises, demonstrating the country's commitment to promoting global stability and prosperity these crises, demonstrating the country's commitment to promoting global stability and prosperity.

The Imperative of Institutional Reforms: PM Modi raised critical questions regarding the effectiveness of institutions like the United Nations (UN) in maintaining global peace and preventing conflicts. He noted that the current institutional framework, created in the previous century, has failed to align with the realities of the twenty-first century. The absence of a universally accepted definition of terrorism at the UN further highlights the need for reforms, he asserted. His speech resonated India's unrelenting advocacy for concrete reforms within major institutions like the UN to ensure their relevance, effectiveness, and representation of the Global South as India believes that only then can the UN and the Security Council transcend being mere platforms for discussions and become catalysts for meaningful change.

Respecting International Law and Sovereignty: PM Modi emphasised the importance of upholding the UN Charter, international law, and the sovereignty, and territorial integrity of all nations. He advocated for a collective voice against unilateral attempts to alter the status quo, recognising that disputes and tensions must be resolved through peaceful means and dialogue. India has set an example of this approach through its peaceful resolution of land and maritime boundary disputes with Bangladesh. By adhering to established legal frameworks and embracing diplomacy, India has underscored its commitment to fostering harmonious relationships and ensuring stability across regions.

Wisdom of Lord Buddha: Elucidating India's stance on the matter of global peace, PM Modi drew on the timeless wisdom of Lord Buddha, whose teachings continue to resonate with millions across the world. By quoting Lord Buddha's profound insight that "enmity is pacified by affinity," he reminded us of the significance of unity and compassion. Lord Buddha's teachings offer profound solutions to the contemporary challenges of war, unrest, and instability. India's long-standing adherence to the principles of non-violence and peaceful coexistence aligns with the teachings of Lord Buddha, reinforcing its commitment to pursuing peace through empathy, understanding, and cooperation.

Voice of the Global South India's focus on issues such as global food security, inclusive development, and sustainable agriculture resonates strongly with the concerns of developing countries often referred to as the 'Global South.' By highlighting the plight of marginalised farmers and the need to strengthen global fertiliser supply chains, India acknowledges the challenges faced by agricultural economies in the Global South. Furthermore, by emphasising on natural farming and the promotion of millets as sustainable alternatives, India positions itself as a source of inspiration and practical solutions for other nations grappling with similar issues. By advocating for a holistic outlook to climate change, encompassing diverse perspectives from various domains, at a forum like the G7 reflects India's understanding of the interconnected nature of environmental challenges that most affect economies that are on the developmental track. Moreover, India's leadership in the Global South is showcased through PM Modi's emphasis on technology transfer, and affordable financing, as it provides invaluable support to developing nations, by promoting equity and shared responsibilities. In essence, India's emergence as the voice of the Global South is marked by its commitment to comprehensive and inclusive approaches to global challenges, its proactive measures in environmental stewardship and sustainable development, and its advocacy for equity and shared responsibilities in international forums.

(The author is a Delhi Bureau Correspondent of an international multi-media news platform. He can be reached at riteshkumar1926@gmail.com)

Views expressed are personal.