India asserted it’s growing stature as a global leader as Indian PM Narendra Modi gave a statesman-like speech at the UNGA on Friday. Modi stated India’s will and efforts to lead the world in tackling growing global problems due to climate change and natural disasters. India further reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for terrorism as a cornerstone for establishing peace and harmony in the world.
Crux of the Matter
Drawing on millenia old Indian traditional values rooted in ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, the Indian PM’s address to the UN General Assembly focused on the necessity of the world coming together to solve problems for humanity at large.
Modi showcased India’s recent rapid progress in sanitation, universal medical coverage, financial inclusion for all stratas of society, penetration of infrastructure and fight against diseases, as examples that could serve as inspiration for the developing world.
Stating that India’s efforts towards solving global problems comes not from pity or pretense but from a sense of duty, it was further mentioned that although India’s per capita emission is amongst the lowest, India is now a world leader in tackling Global Warming. India has more than doubled its renewable energy target to 450GW and has further founded the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
Reminding the world of India’s sacrifices and contributions to UN peacekeeping missions, Modi highlighted the global threat of terrorism. He stated India’s firm resolve to keep fighting terrorism while urging all countries to join in the effort to help establish peace.
Invoking Buddha and Swami Vivekananda, India’s parting message to the world was that of Harmony and Peace.
India’s message of global unity comes in contrast to Donald Trump’s speech which advocated for countries looking out for their national interests.
Curiopedia
Kaniyan Pungundranar was an influential Tamil philosopher from the Sangam age. Pungundranar rejected division of mankind into various categories and emphasised the universality of all humans, “To us all towns are our own, everyone our kin.” He was quoted by Narendra Modi in his UNGA address of 2019 to highlight Indian culture of universal brotherhood. More Info
Curated Coverage
UN News – At UN, Modi outlines development successes, says India gave world ‘Buddha, not war’
Hindustan Times – No mention of Pak in PM’s speech, Imran Khan’s address all about Kashmir issue
Livemint – It is absolutely imperative that world unites against terrorism: Modi at UNGA
News18 – After Modi’s UNGA Speech, How India Rose in Stature Before International Community
Comments