THE CONTEXT: The criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s attendance at the G7 Summit as an attempt to bolster his international image should be viewed within the context of political rivalry. Global summits often serve as platforms for national leaders to showcase their global influence on domestic audiences. Despite this, Modi’s recent electoral victory already elevated his standing among global peers, making additional efforts to enhance his image at the summit unnecessary.
THE ISSUES:
Political Context and Criticism: There is criticism from the Congress party, which claims that PM Modi’s attendance at the G7 Summit is an attempt to enhance his international image. This criticism is framed within the context of domestic political sparring, especially given the recent electoral outcomes where the ruling government returned with a reduced majority. The Congress party’s critique is part of a broader narrative of political rivalry and positioning within India.
Global Summits as Photo-Ops: Global summits like the G7 are often seen as opportunities for national leaders to showcase their global reach and influence. These events are described as “photo-ops” where leaders engage in symbolic gestures and public diplomacy, often after the substantial work has been completed by their diplomats. This perspective suggests that the primary function of such summits is to project an image of unity and cooperation among world leaders.
Modi’s Established Prestige: Despite the criticism, it is argued that PM Modi did not need to do anything extraordinary at the G7 Summit to enhance his image. His recent electoral victory and third term as Prime Minister have already elevated his stature among global peers. This point is emphasized by contrasting Modi’s stable political position with the precarious situations faced by other G7 leaders, such as Joe Biden, Justin Trudeau, Rishi Sunak, Emmanuel Macron, Olaf Scholz, and Fumio Kishida, who are dealing with various domestic challenges.
India’s Growing Economic and Geopolitical Significance: India’s economic growth and role as a “swing state” in geopolitical terms are significant factors. The expectation that India’s GDP will soon surpass that of Japan and Germany underscores its growing economic clout. Additionally, India’s strategic partnerships and involvement in global issues like climate change, artificial intelligence, and financial security enhance its relevance to the G7 and the broader international community.
Strategic Compact Between India and the West: The current geopolitical landscape, marked by tensions with China and the need for the West to reconnect with the Global South, has created an opportunity for a new strategic compact between India and Western nations. This compact would leverage India’s economic and geopolitical strengths to foster greater prosperity and stability. The challenge for India’s political and policy establishment is to navigate and capitalize on these opportunities to benefit the Indian populace.
THE WAY FORWARD:
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships: India should continue to deepen its strategic ties with key global players such as the United States, Japan, and the European Union. This can be achieved through regular high-level dialogues, joint military exercises, and increased intelligence sharing. The Indo-Pacific strategy, which emphasizes maritime security and freedom of navigation, provides a framework for such cooperation. India’s strategic partnership with the US and its allies is crucial for counterbalancing China’s regional influence.
Economic Reforms and Infrastructure Development: India should focus on labour market reforms, improving education and skills, and enhancing women’s economic participation. Additionally, significant investments in infrastructure, such as the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP), can reduce transaction costs and attract foreign investment. High capital expenditure and private investment are essential for sustaining India’s growth trajectory.
Leveraging Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): India should strategically negotiate FTAs that enhance market access while protecting domestic industries. The ongoing India-UK FTA negotiations exemplify how such agreements can be leveraged to boost bilateral trade and the importance of FTAs in creating a competitive business environment and increasing consumption demand.
Addressing Internal Economic Disparities: Policies aimed at reducing inequality, such as targeted social welfare programs and progressive taxation, can help ensure that the benefits of economic growth are more evenly distributed. Additionally, rural development and agriculture investments can uplift the livelihoods of those dependent on these sectors. India’s economic transformation highlights the need for policies that address the “K-shaped” recovery, where the rich thrive while the poor struggle. The World Inequality Database also points to the necessity of wealth redistribution measures to tackle growing inequality.
Enhancing India’s Role in Global Governance: India should actively advocate for reforms in global institutions like the United Nations, World Bank, and International Monetary Fund to better reflect contemporary power distributions. This includes pushing for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council and greater voting rights in financial institutions. India’s economic strategy emphasizes the need for India to support a liberal international order that reflects current global power dynamics.
THE CONCLUSION:
India’s growing economic and geopolitical significance underscores its increasing relevance to the G7 amidst the shifting political landscape in North America and Europe. As the West grapples with internal divisions and leadership challenges, India’s role as a “swing state” becomes crucial. The strategic partnership between India and the West offers opportunities to foster global prosperity and stability, necessitating thoughtful engagement from India’s political and policy leaders.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:
Q.1 How will the I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE, and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? 2022
Q.2 The time has come for India and Japan to build a contemporary solid relationship involving global and strategic partnership that will have great significance for Asia and the world.’ Comment. 2019
Q.3 India’s energy security is essential to its economic progress. Analyze India’s energy policy cooperation with West Asian Countries. 2017
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1 Discuss the significance of India’s participation in the G7 Summit in the context of its growing economic and geopolitical stature. How does India’s engagement with the G7 reflect the shifting political landscape in North America and Europe?
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