Mon Nov 18 20:31:16 UTC 2024: ## Modi Urges G20 to Prioritize Global South at Rio Summit

**Rio de Janeiro, Brazil –** Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro on November 18th, 2024, emphasizing the disproportionate impact of global crises on Global South nations. He stressed the need for the G20 to prioritize the challenges and priorities of these countries, particularly concerning food, fuel, and fertilizer shortages exacerbated by global conflicts.

Modi commended Brazil’s G20 presidency for continuing the “people-centric” approach initiated during India’s presidency last year in New Delhi, highlighting the ongoing relevance of the “One Earth, One Family, One Future” theme. He praised the launch of a new global alliance to combat poverty and hunger, backed by over 80 nations, calling it a significant step towards ensuring food security. India pledged its full support to this initiative.

The Prime Minister outlined India’s own initiatives to address hunger and poverty, including lifting 250 million people out of poverty in the last decade and providing free food grains to 800 million citizens. He also highlighted India’s contributions to global food security through assistance to other countries and its extensive domestic programs supporting farmers, including crop insurance and credit access. Modi emphasized India’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, promoting millets and developing climate-resilient crop varieties.

Furthermore, Modi advocated for reforms in global governance institutions, echoing India’s efforts to grant the African Union permanent G20 membership. He reiterated India’s focus on inclusive development, women-led development, and youth empowerment, showcasing India’s “back to basics and march to the future” approach, combining traditional methods with technological advancements. This included initiatives like the Digital Agriculture Mission and the promotion of digital public infrastructure for social and financial inclusion. The summit, attended by leaders including US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, continues its discussions today.

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