Democratization of technology important tool to help bridge data divide: PM Narendra Modi 

Speaking to G20 development ministers through a video address, PM Narendra Modi also batted for reforms in multilateral financial institutions to expand their eligibility criteria to ensure that finance is accessible to those in need

Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Pic/PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday pitched for democratization of technology to bridge the data divide, and told G20 delegates that India is willing to share its experience with partner countries as digitalization has brought about a revolutionary change Democratization of technology important tool to help bridge data divide: PM Narendra Modi

Speaking to G20 development ministers through a video address, Narendra Modi also batted for reforms in multilateral financial institutions to expand their eligibility criteria to ensure that finance is accessible to those in need.

" In India, digitalization has brought about a revolutionary change. Technology is being used as a tool to empower people," he said.  Narendra Modi spoke about his government's work to boost development in over 100 aspirational districts, a reference to underdeveloped areas. Experience has shown that these districts have emerged as a catalyst for the country's growth, and urged the delegates to study the model as they may find it relevant. Noting that development is a core issue for the Global South, he said these countries were severely impacted by the disruptions created by the global Covid pandemic. And, the food, fuel, and fertilizer crises because of geopolitical tensions have delivered another blow, he added. "In such circumstances, the decisions you make carry great significance for humanity as a whole. I strongly believe that it is our collective responsibility not to let the Sustainable Development Goals fall behind. We must ensure that no one is left behind. It is imperative for this group to send a strong message to the world that we have an action plan to achieve this," he said. Describing Varanasi, where the meeting is taking place, as the oldest living city of the mother of democracy, the prime minister said it is a fitting location for the G20 development ministers' meeting. "Kasi has been a center of knowledge, discussion, debate, culture, and spirituality for centuries. It has the essence of India's diverse heritage and serves as a convergence point for people from all parts of the country," he said.

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 Development in the global south was impacted by “geopolitical tensions” and the COVID-19 pandemic, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday. Inaugurating the G20 Development Ministers’ meeting in Varanasi, PM Narendra Modi called for “inclusive and fair” attempts to achieve global developmental goals and said India is following a “women-led” development model. Speaking on the occasion, the External Affairs Minister highlighted the requirement to deal with supply chain disruptions and reminded the developed economies that “cherry-picking” is not an effective approach to deal with collective challenges.