Modi Calls for Global Collaboration on Disaster Resilience, Launches New Initiatives at G20 Summit
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India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored teh critical need for enhanced international cooperation in disaster preparedness and response during the second session of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg on Saturday. He also unveiled aspiring new initiatives focused on lasting advancement and global food security, signaling a continued commitment to collaborative solutions on a world stage increasingly challenged by climate change and resource scarcity.
Addressing the Growing Threat of Natural Disasters
Highlighting the escalating frequency and impact of natural disasters worldwide, Modi described them as a “major challenge for humanity.” He emphasized the urgency of strengthening global collaboration, noting that india established the Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group during its 2023 G20 presidency to bolster international efforts in this crucial area. He also commended South Africa for prioritizing this vital issue during its leadership.
“Natural disasters continue to pose a major challenge to humanity,” Modi stated.”These events clearly highlight the need to strengthen international cooperation for effective disaster preparedness and response.”
From Response to Resilience: A New Approach
The Prime Minister advocated for a paradigm shift from a purely “response-centric” approach to a more proactive, “development-centric” strategy for building disaster resilience. This involves not only reacting to crises but also investing in preventative measures and long-term sustainable development.
To that end,Modi proposed a G20 Open Satellite Data Partnership,leveraging space technology to benefit all of humanity. This initiative aims to make satellite data from G20 space agencies more accessible and valuable, notably for nations in the Global South.
Circularity and Critical Minerals for Sustainable Growth
Recognizing the importance of critical minerals for sustainable growth and the transition to clean energy, Modi introduced the G20 Critical Minerals Circularity Initiative. This program seeks to drive innovation in recycling, urban mining, and the development of second-life batteries, reducing reliance on primary mining and easing pressure on global supply chains.
“Sustainability and clean energy are essential for global growth,” Modi explained. “Critical minerals are crucial for this and should be seen as a shared resource for humanity.” The initiative will also foster joint research and the establishment of common technology standards, wiht a focus on pilot recycling facilities in the Global south.
Climate Finance and Food Security: A Call to Action
Recalling commitments made at the 2023 New Delhi G20 Summit to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy-efficiency rates by 2030, Modi urged developed nations to deliver on their pledges of affordable climate finance and technology transfer in a timely manner. He warned that climate change is increasingly threatening agriculture and global food security, exacerbating challenges for farmers worldwide.
India, he noted, is already taking significant steps to address these issues, operating the world’s largest food security, health insurance, and crop insurance programs. He also highlighted the promotion of shree Anna (millets) – nutritious and environmentally amiable “superfoods” – as a key component of India’s strategy. He called for a G20 roadmap based on the Deccan Principles agreed upon in New Delhi.
“To achieve this goal, developed countries will have to fulfil their commitments to provide affordable climate finance and technology in a time-bound manner,” Modi emphasized.
Integrated Strategies for Global Security
Concluding his address, Modi underscored that building resilience cannot be achieved in isolation. He urged the G20 to adopt integrated strategies that connect nutrition, public health, sustainable agriculture, and disaster preparedness to strengthen global security.
“Resilience cannot be built in silos,” Modi stated. “The G20 should promote comprehensive strategies that strengthen global security by connecting nutrition, public health, sustainable agriculture, and disaster preparedness.”
The G20 Summit 2025 concludes on November 23.
