Global Consensus in G20 and Domestic Divide
India’s heft of its rising authority and nimble diplomacy achieved a near impossible consensus at G20. Modi’s seamless blending of Indian Vedic concept of ‘Vasudev Kutumbakam’ with present day realpolitik was remarkable. However, it was not only Modi’s confident astuteness, but it was also India’s rising strength which swayed the countries. Many sceptics were not sure of a consensus on Declaration due to the discord on Russia- Ukraine war. India with its influence on West could persuade it to drop the mention of Russia in the document. In response to this India’s effort, Russia agreed to the reference of respecting the sovereignty of every country and international rules. Modi’s words ‘this is not the era of war’ found its way into Declaration, and it was not only for Russia but also a strong message to China. As exhorted by India, the declaration condemned the terrorism in all its forms.
In a landmark achievement for G20 and India, was the inclusion of African Union, representing 55 African countries, as a member of this forum. This was the perspicacious diplomacy of India to checkmate the Chinese influence in Africa. It shows the growing India’s geopolitical strength.
This Declaration is a benchmark for future global cooperation. The launching of Global Biofuel Alliance and India led International climate action platform will be far reaching. There was consensus on working for framework for crypto currency and reform of multilateral development banks like IMF and World Bank. India’s initiative of lifestyle for sustainable development is included in the preamble. A target of trebling of renewable energy capacity globally and green hydrogen innovation centres were another highlights.
For India, the significance goes far beyond the formal agreement. Proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor will prove to be a game changer for commerce and a befitting reply to Chinese BRI. This Corridor from India to Europe will have two sea lanes and a railway line in the middle. India also held many meaningful bilateral meetings to further its interests.
While India was a catalyst for global consensus, its own domestic politics is getting more and more polarised and bitterly divided. There is no consensus between the ruling party and the opposition parties on any issue of permanent national interest. There are certain goals and ideals on which there can be a mutual tacit agreement on long-term basis. This will ensure that acrimonious fight during elections and rules of different governments will not lose the sight of India’s development. India’s heft, visible now internationally, will only be sustained or enhanced by continuous economic growth. India’s demographic dividend is for a short time. India has to develop faster within a few next decades if it aspires to become a permanent member of UNSC and to be a world power.
