Global South adversely impacted by crisis caused by global conflicts: PM Modi at G20

PM Narendra Modi while addressing the maiden session of the Rio G20 Summit on Monday pointed out that the countries of the Global South are most adversely impacted by the food, fuel and fertiliser crisis caused by global conflicts (read Ukraine and Gaza) and in that context supported Brazil's initiative for a 'Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty'. Addressing the session titled 'Social Inclusion and the Fight Against Hunger and Poverty', Modi noted that the G20 discussions can only be successful when "we keep in mind the challenges and priorities of the Global South".

"This is an important step towards the implementation of the Deccan high-level principles for Food security, adopted at the New Delhi Summit."

Simultaneously, the PM called for reforms of the global institutions which has also been a key priority at the Brics as well as for G20 hosts Brazil and South Africa, among other countries. "And just as we amplified the voice of the Global South by granting permanent membership of G20 to the African Union during the New Delhi Summit, we will reform institutions of global governance." The second session of the G20 Summit focused on reforms of Global institutions.

Modi further pointed out, "The people-centric decisions taken at the G20 Summit in New Delhi have been taken forward during Brazil's Presidency. It is a matter of great satisfaction that we prioritised SDG goals. We focused on inclusive development, women-led development, and youth power. And gave wings to the hopes and aspirations of the Global South." The PM highlighted India's success experiences and success stories in keeping with the theme of the G20 Summit session. "Over the last 10 years, we have lifted 250 million people out of poverty. Over 800 million people are being given food grains free of cost. 550 million people are benefiting from the world's biggest health insurance scheme. Now, 60 million senior citizens, over the age of 70, will also benefit from free health insurance," he said.

Under the world's largest crop insurance scheme, over 40 million farmers have received benefits worth $20 billion. Under the farmers scheme, assistance worth over $40 billion has been given to 110 million farmers. Institutional credit worth $300 billion is being given to farmers, he informed. India is not only ensuring food security but also focusing on nutrition, Modi said, adding, India is also contributing to global food security. "We have provided humanitarian assistance to Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe, recently." The main reason for India's success is approach: 'Back to basics' and 'march to the future', according to the PM.

Earlier, he was warmly received by the Brazilian President. Modi had brief interactions with the outgoing President of the USA besides the PM of Singapore and UN Secretary General. Modi is on a three-day visit to Brazil for the G20 and IBSA summits.