- India,
- 22-Nov-2025 06:19 PM IST
Prime Minister Narendra Modi put forth three significant new initiatives at the opening session of the G20 Summit held in Johannesburg, South Africa, while addressing the G20 Summit, which was hosted in Africa for the first time, the Prime Minister called for a profound rethinking of global development parameters. During his address on the session focused on inclusive and sustainable economic growth, PM Modi highlighted that the G20 has long shaped global finance and growth. However, he noted that existing models have excluded large populations from resources and promoted the over-exploitation of nature, challenges that are acutely felt in Africa.
Call for Rethinking Global Development Parameters
Prime Minister Modi underscored that current development models have marginalized vast populations from accessing essential resources and have Notably contributed to the over-exploitation of natural resources. He pointed out that these challenges are particularly pronounced in the African continent. He argued that as Africa hosts the G20 Summit for the first time, it's imperative to reconsider the very parameters of development. PM Modi suggested a path rooted in India's civilizational values, specifically 'Integral Humanism,' which advocates viewing humanity, society, and nature as an integrated whole. He believes that only through this holistic approach can harmony between progress and nature be achieved.Proposal for a Global Traditional Knowledge Repository
Acknowledging the existence of numerous communities worldwide that have meticulously preserved their traditional and eco-balanced lifestyles, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that these traditions not only embody sustainability but also reflect rich cultural knowledge, social cohesion, and a deep reverence for nature. Building on this recognition, PM Modi proposed the creation of a 'Global Traditional Knowledge Repository' under the G20 framework. He suggested that India's 'Indian Knowledge Systems' initiative could serve as a foundational platform for this global endeavor. The repository's primary objective would be to document and share traditional knowledge that demonstrates time-tested models of sustainable living, thereby ensuring that this invaluable wisdom is passed on to future generations.The G20-Africa Skills Multiplier Initiative
Emphasizing that the development of Africa is intrinsically linked to global interests, Prime Minister Modi put forward the 'G20-Africa Skills Multiplier' initiative. He explained that this initiative would adopt a 'train-the-trainers' model across all sectors, with support and financing from all G20 partners. The collective goal of this ambitious program is to create one million certified trainers in Africa over the next ten years. These trainers, in turn, would be instrumental in skilling millions of young people across the continent, Importantly boosting human capital development and unlocking Africa's vast economic potential.Special Initiative to Combat the Drug-Terror Nexus
Prime Minister Modi expressed grave. Concern over the rapid proliferation of deadly synthetic drugs like Fentanyl. He warned of their severe impact on public health, social stability, and global security. To counter this growing menace, he proposed a special G20 initiative specifically aimed at combating the drug-terror nexus. This initiative seeks to integrate financial, governance, and security tools to effectively address the problem. Its objectives include disrupting trafficking networks, curbing illicit money transactions, and. Weakening a major source of funding for terrorism, thereby enhancing global security.Amplifying the Voice of the Global South in Global Institutions
Prime Minister Modi also underscored the enduring strength of India-Africa solidarity. He highlighted the significant initiative of granting permanent membership to the African Union within the G20 during the New Delhi Summit, while he stressed the importance of extending this spirit beyond the G20, advocating for collective efforts to amplify the voice of the Global South in all global institutions. This move is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and equitable global order, ensuring that the perspectives and needs of developing nations are adequately represented on the world stage.Spoke at the first session of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, which focussed on inclusive and sustainable growth. With Africa hosting the G20 Summit for the first time, NOW is the right moment for us to revisit our development parameters and focus on growth that is… pic.twitter.com/AxHki7WegR
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 22, 2025
