India and the Global South: Prospects and Challenges

About this book

Accounting for roughly 85 per cent of the world population and 39 per cent of the global GDP, the Global South can’t be ignored any more. It includes world’s two most populated countries: India and China, and some of the fastest growing economies. It is also the largest source of supplies of oil, gas and much-needed mineral resources. With its historical and cultural links; having supported the struggle of many countries of the Global South against the colonial rule; and willingness to extend its knowledge, experiences, expertise and economic and technological assistance, India has earned considerable goodwill in the Global South. New Delhi has been raising the issues of concerns and priorities of the Global South at various international forums and using its diplomatic and political influence to have their problems addressed. Above all, when the countries of the Global South face natural crises, India is one of the first to rush with all possible assistance. At the G20 summit in Delhi, India emerged as one of the leading champions of the Global South. In the emerging people-centric inclusive world order, Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas could be a guiding mantra for intra-South and South–North cooperation. This illuminating anthology features articles from a distinguished panel of experts, including Dr Shashi Tharoor, Amb Shivshankar Menon, Dr Rajiv Kumar, Amb Kanwal Sibal, Dr Seshadri Chari and Prof C Raja Mohan. It is a must-read for scholars, policymakers and anyone interested in the intricacies of international relations and India's growing global influence. About the Author Surendra Kumar has served as India's ambassador to Libya, Mozambique, Democratic Republic of Congo and Eritrea; as high commissioner to Kenya, Swaziland and Malta and PR to UNEP and UN HABITAT. He has served as the minister (political and cultural) at the high commission of India in London and as consul general in Chicago, USA. Ambassador Kumar retired as the dean, Foreign Service Institute/Secretary MEA. He was adviser, international relations at INTACH and for a year DG, Global Economic Forum at Amity University. He has authored seven books: The Legends of Indian Cinema; Kokila; In the Minds of the Maestros; Sirf Sipahi; Beyond Diplomatic Dilemmas; Modi's Midas Touch in Foreign Policy and Who Should say Sorry for Two Millenia of Injustices? He has edited six books with over 140 contributors: India of My Dreams; What will Leapfrog India in the 21st Century? India and the World; India's Foreign Policy in the post-Covid World and Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav: India at 75. He founded Indo-American Friendship Association, New Delhi in March 2010.