“India is Shaping a New Global Order”: Isha Ambani Sets a Bold Development Agenda at UNGA’s ‘India Day’
The ‘India Day @ UNGA week’ in New York featured high-level dialogues emphasizing India’s growing leadership role in the Global South.
Organized by Reliance Foundation in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) and the United Nations in India, the events aimed to provide insights and pathways for sustainable development beyond 2030.
In her opening address, Isha Ambani, Director of Reliance Foundation, introduced the ‘Pancha Tantra’—five key pathways for sustainable development. These pathways focus on empowering women, harnessing youth potential, fostering partnerships to drive innovation, leveraging technology for transformation, and crafting a visionary future.
“Leaders from around the world are gathering to discuss equitable development, and it’s evident that India is stepping into its rightful role in shaping a new global order. This moment is not just about change; it’s about collaboratively creating a better future, particularly for our youth,” said Isha Ambani.
The dialogue, titled “Tiger’s Tale: Crafting a New Development Paradigm,” explored India’s potential to set benchmarks in global development as a leader in the Global South.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the reality of leadership from the Global South, noting India’s pivotal role in bringing this perspective to the UN. He emphasized the importance of democratizing technology and the global workforce in an orderly manner.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, underscored the resilience of international trade while pointing out the need for stronger connectivity that benefits all.
Guyana’s Foreign Minister Hugh Hilton Todd remarked on the shortcomings in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), calling for the political will to ensure no one is left behind, particularly under India’s leadership.
P Harish, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, stressed the significance of youth, stating that those turning 18 are vital to the political process and will be key in shaping the future narrative.
“Ultimately, the tale of the tiger will be told by its young cubs,” he said.
Earlier in the day, panel discussions addressed themes such as “Pathways to the Rising South,” “Technology as an Enabler,” “The Power of Women-Led Development,” and the “LiFE Economy,” featuring experts proposing solutions for a sustainable future.
A special publication titled “The Next Frontier: Charting the Contours of the Post-2030 Development Agenda” was also released. Developed by Reliance Foundation, ORF, and the UN in India, the publication compiles 27 essays from global experts, exploring innovative strategies and leadership needed for a new development agenda beyond 2030.
The audience included stakeholders from government, multilateral organizations, philanthropic foundations, academia, think tanks, and the private sector.
