GS2 – International Relations
Context:
PM Modi’s visits to Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, and Argentina enroute to the BRICS Summit reaffirmed India’s commitment to championing the Global South.
Understanding the Global South:
Comprises developing nations in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Oceania, sharing a legacy of colonialism and common developmental challenges.
Significance:
- Represents 80% of global population.
- Promotes multipolarity and alternative development through BRICS+, G77, NAM, and IBSA.
- Influences multilateral reform agendas (climate finance, vaccine equity, WTO rules).
Challenges to India’s Leadership:
- Limited humanitarian response to crises in Gaza and Sudan.
- Loss in UNESCO Vice-Chair election.
- Growing alignment with the West has led to credibility concerns.
- Discontent over BRICS expansion and lack of consensus on UNSC reform.
- Non-renewal of PLI schemes raises industrial policy concerns.
India’s Recalibration Efforts:
- Balanced diplomacy on Palestine and strategic neutrality.
- Advocated inclusion of the AU in G20 and UNSC reforms.
- Offered UPI, Co-WIN, and other digital public infrastructure as tech partnerships.
- Promoted ITEC training and concessional credit for developmental cooperation.
- Engaged in cultural diplomacy through diaspora outreach.