Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of democratizing technology as a crucial tool for bridging the data divide.<\/p>\n
During the G20 Development Ministers’ meeting held in Varanasi through video conferencing, Prime Minister Modi expressed India’s readiness to share its digitalization experiences with partner nations.<\/p>\n
Modi highlighted the transformative power of technology in empowering individuals, ensuring data accessibility, and promoting inclusivity.<\/p>\n
Recognizing the growing data divide, he stressed the importance of high-quality data for effective policymaking, efficient resource allocation, and improved public service delivery.<\/p>\n
Referring to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on developing countries, Modi emphasized that development remains a vital concern for the Global South.<\/p>\n
He emphasized the collective responsibility to prevent any setbacks in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), urging comprehensive, inclusive, fair, and sustainable efforts. He also called for increased investments in fulfilling the SDGs and finding solutions to address the debt risks faced by many countries.<\/p>\n
Modi advocated for the reform of multilateral financial institutions to expand eligibility criteria, ensuring accessibility of finance to those in need. He urged G20 Development Ministers to study India’s development model, considering its relevance in accelerating the Agenda 2030.<\/p>\n
Highlighting the significance of gender equality and women’s empowerment in achieving the SDGs, Modi stated that India goes beyond women’s empowerment and adopts a women-led development approach.<\/p>\n
He recognized women as agenda-setters for development and as agents of growth and change. Modi encouraged the adoption of a game-changing Action Plan for Women-led Development.<\/p>\n
Expressing his warm welcome to the members of G20 countries in Varanasi (also known as Kashi), the oldest living city and the epitome of democracy, Modi highlighted the fitting location for the G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting. He expressed his delight that the G20 Development agenda had reached Kashi as well.<\/p>\n