India Takes Lead in G20 Summit to Combat Cyber Crimes and Climate Change
India has emerged as a frontrunner in the G20 Summit’s efforts to address two critical global challenges: cyber crimes and climate change. In an exclusive interview with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he highlighted India’s commitment to a constructive approach that focuses on empowering nations through finance, technology, and other resources.
Regarding climate change, PM Modi emphasized the need for diverse solutions catered to different countries’ energy transition pathways. Despite having a population of 17% of the world’s population, India’s historical contribution to cumulative emissions has been less than 5%. Nevertheless, the country has made significant strides in achieving its climate goals while ensuring sustainable growth.
Looking towards the future, PM Modi expressed optimism in fighting climate change through a constructive approach. Instead of imposing restrictions, he stressed the importance of creating awareness and empowering nations to take action. This includes providing financial assistance, technological support, and other necessary resources to catalyze positive change.
While climate change remains a pressing concern, the interview also shed light on another emerging challenge: cyber crimes. PM Modi acknowledged the serious implications of cyber threats, not just in terms of financial losses but also their impact on society and geopolitics. He highlighted the World Bank‘s estimation that cyber-attacks could have caused global losses of around USD 5.2 trillion during 2019-2023.
Cyber crimes have added a new dimension to illicit financial activities and terrorism. Terrorist organizations are exploiting technology for radicalization, money laundering, and funding their nefarious activities. The rise of deep fakes and the spread of fake news further amplifies these risks, potentially causing social unrest and undermining the credibility of news sources.
Recognizing the need for coordinated global action, India hosted a G20 Conference on Crime and Security in the age of NFTs, Artificial Intelligence, and Metaverse. The conference emphasized the urgency of tackling malicious cyber activities and the importance of achieving a comprehensive international convention on countering the use of information and communication technologies for criminal purposes.
Furthermore, the interview touched upon the role of multilateral institutions in addressing global challenges. PM Modi highlighted the importance of institutions adapting to changing realities and ensuring representation of voices that matter. He emphasized that smaller or regional forums gain prominence when international institutions fail to deliver actions and outcomes.
India’s Presidency of the G20 comes at a crucial juncture, offering an opportunity for the nation to contribute to shaping the future of the world. As a diverse nation, with a large youth population and a growing economy, India has a lot to offer in terms of innovative solutions and a human-centric vision.
The media plays a vital role in raising awareness about global realities, India’s progress, and the need for international institutions to reform. By facilitating understanding and dialogue, the media acts as a conduit to drive positive change on a global scale.
India’s leadership in addressing cyber crimes and climate change within the G20 Summit highlights the country’s commitment to creating a secure and sustainable future for all. With a constructive approach that emphasizes empowerment, India is paving the way for global cooperation and innovative solutions to tackle these pressing challenges.
