India and the Global South by Ambassador Ashok Sajjanhar..

India and the Global South

Introduction

India’s relations with countries of the Global South have deep roots in shared histories, common struggles, and mutual aspirations for development and self-reliance. Over the years, India’s role has evolved from being a leader in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to becoming a pivotal player in contemporary South-South cooperation.

India’s partnership with the Global South was elevated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi through the first Voice of the Global South Summit (VOGSS) held on 12–13 January 2023, soon after India assumed the G20 Presidency. This was followed by additional summits in 2023 and 2024.

Background

India plays a pivotal role in the Global South, leveraging its growing economic strength, democratic values, and strategic geopolitical positioning to advocate equitable global governance.

Through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, India has provided training and technical assistance to over 160 countries in sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and information technology.

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – The World is One Family

The guiding philosophy of India’s foreign policy, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, found its fullest expression during India’s G20 Presidency in 2023 with the theme: “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”

Current Status

India’s Global South partnership has matured into a core pillar of its foreign policy. A key achievement was securing full G20 membership for the African Union, representing 54 African nations.

India’s economy has grown from the world’s 10th largest in 2014 to the 4th largest today, with projections to become the 3rd largest by 2027. GDP growth stands at approximately 8.2%, and the economy is expected to exceed USD 10 trillion by 2035.

Humanitarian & Global Assistance

During the COVID-19 pandemic, India supplied medicines to over 150 countries and distributed more than 300 million vaccine doses under the Vaccine Maitri initiative.

India also extended financial and humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Maldives and other nations, emerging as a first responder during regional crises.

Key Pillars of Engagement

A. Digital Public Infrastructure (India Stack)

• UPI deployment in Namibia, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia
• $25 million Social Impact Fund to support digital identity systems

B. Health & Pharmaceutical Leadership

• Affordable generic medicine supply to Africa & Caribbean
• Training Global South drug regulators

C. Global Development Compact

• Trade support for Least Developed Countries (LDCs)
• Concessional project-based finance

D. Climate Justice & Energy Transition

• Leadership in International Solar Alliance (121 member nations)
• Promotion of Mission LiFE for sustainable lifestyles

Conclusion

India’s engagement with the Global South reflects its growing economic power, diplomatic leadership, and commitment to a multipolar world. Through sustained cooperation, India continues to shape the future of developing nations globally.

Ambassador Ashok Sajjanhar

Translation: India and the Global South by Ambassador Ashok Sajjanhar