G20 Country India: Cornerstone Nation And A Pillar Of Influence
Known as world's largest democracy and a land of diverse cultures, India has emerged as a prominent player within the G20, with its strategic location, burgeoning economy, and rich cultural heritage.
Prime Minister: Narendra Modi
- Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister of India in 2014 and is aiming for a third term in 2024. His initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission, Startup India and Make In India have received global praise.
One of the fastest growing major economies, India became the fifth largest economy earlier this year, pushing the UK down on the list. Known as the world's largest democracy and a land of diverse cultures, India has emerged as a prominent player within the G20, with its strategic location, burgeoning economy, and rich cultural heritage making it an indispensable member of the influential international forum.
India is the chair for the 2023 G20 Summit scheduled on September 9-10, with the theme of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' or 'One Earth. One Family. One Future' — drawn from the ancient Sanskrit text of the Maha Upanishad. The summit will see the participation of all member states and guest countries. India will chair the meeting this year under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will hold the presidency until November 30, 2023.
India conveys the message of striving for just and equitable growth for all in the world in a sustainable, holistic, responsible, and inclusive manner through its logo and theme.
The Group of Twenty (G20) is a premier forum for international economic cooperation. It plays an essential role in shaping and strengthening global architecture and governance on all major international economic issues.
Apart from India, the other G20 members are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the UK and the US, besides the European Union. The group accounts for 75 per cent of global trade, 60 per cent of the world population and more than 80 per cent of the global GDP.
India has been consistent in its endeavours to be the voice of the global South and was praised for its handling of the Covid pandemic. India not only took care of its citizens but supported over 150 nations with vaccines, medical equipment and medicines.
During the last G20 Summit held in Indonesia, PM Modi held extensive discussions with other G20 leaders on key issues of global concern, such as reviving global growth, food and energy security, environment, health, and digital transformation.
India is now the world's most populous country, and is working towards making the high population its strength rather than a burden.