India and the Global South

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 propelled to a new level by Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he organized the first Voice of the Global South Summit (VOGSS) on 12-13th January, 2023 within a few weeks of India taking over the Presidency of the G20. This Summit was followed by another later during the year and a third one in 2024.

In addition to articulating the interests, priorities and aspirations of the Global South through several VOGSSs and raising these issues at all relevant fora, India also "Walks the Talk" and extends all possible assistance to countries of the Global South.

Background

India’s role within the Global South is pivotal, leveraging its growing economic power, democratic framework, and strategic geopolitical positioning to advocate for equitable global governance.

India’s development assistance programs to members of the Global South underscore its role as a partner in progress. Through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, India has provided training, capacity building, and technical assistance to over 160 countries. This program covers a wide range of areas, including healthcare, education, agriculture, and information technology, thereby contributing to human resource development in the Global South.

The Policy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (The World is One Family)

The spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” has served as the guiding philosophy of India’s foreign policy for the last more than a decade. This policy witnessed its fullest expression during India’s Chairmanship of the G20 in 2023 when it adopted the motto of “One Earth, One Family, One Future” for its Presidency, and made sure that all decisions emanating from the deliberations fully reflected this commitment.

Current Status