At the G20 Summit in Brazil, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the urgent need to address the challenges facing the Global South, which has been disproportionately affected by the ongoing food, fuel, and fertiliser crises exacerbated by global conflicts. Modi highlighted the importance of centering these concerns in G20 discussions, emphasizing that the success of such dialogues hinges on addressing the specific priorities of developing nations.
As part of a concerted effort to combat global hunger and poverty, Modi supported Brazil’s initiative for a “Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty,” which was launched by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. This global coalition, which aims to address the plight of world hunger affecting over 733 million people, has garnered support from 81 countries, including key G20 members, and 147 signatories overall, including international organizations like the European Union and the African Union.“
Countries of the Global South are most adversely impacted by the food, fuel and fertiliser crises caused by global conflicts. Our discussions will only succeed if we focus on their challenges and priorities,” Modi stated. He pointed out that India’s G20 presidency last year had already emphasized reforms in global governance, notably granting permanent membership to the African Union, which represents the growing voice of the Global South.
In his address, Modi outlined India’s significant contributions to improving food security and alleviating poverty, both domestically and internationally. Over the past decade, India has lifted 250 million people out of poverty and is providing free food grains to 800 million citizens. Additionally, 550 million people benefit from the world’s largest health insurance program, and 60 million senior citizens receive free health coverage.
Modi also highlighted India’s commitment to sustainable agriculture. More than 40 million farmers have benefited from India’s extensive crop insurance scheme, receiving financial aid and institutional credit. India’s agricultural initiatives focus on integrating natural and organic farming techniques alongside advanced technologies to ensure long-term sustainability, environmental protection, and food security. India has also pioneered the development of over 2,000 climate-resilient crop varieties and launched the Digital Agriculture Mission to further boost food security.
On the global stage, Modi reaffirmed India’s support for countries in need, citing recent humanitarian assistance to Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. These efforts align with the broader objectives of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, which aims to reduce hunger, improve early childhood nutrition, and support small-scale farmers worldwide. The initiative also seeks to provide free school meals and expand food access for 150 million children by the end of the decade.
The Global Alliance’s focus on international financing and replicating successful national programs globally is seen as a critical step toward addressing the scourge of hunger that continues to impact millions. However, Argentina remains the only G20 member not to endorse the initiative.
As the summit progresses, the focus on poverty alleviation, food security, and inclusive development remains a key priority, with global leaders committed to turning these challenges into opportunities for a more equitable and sustainable world.
