'Democratisation Of Technology Important To Help Bridge Data Divide': PM Modi At G20 Meet In Varanasi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that democratisation of technology is an important tool to help bridge the data divide. While addressing G20 Development Ministers' Meeting in Varanasi, PM Modi said that digitalisation has brought about a revolutionary change in India.

''I am delighted that the G20 development agenda has reached Kashi as well. Development is a core issue for the global south...I strongly believe that it is our collective responsibility not to let the sustainable development goals fall behind. We must ensure that no one is left behind.'' Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while addressing the G20 Development Ministers' Meeting.

''Our efforts must be comprehensive, inclusive, fair and sustainable. In India, we have made efforts to improve people's lives in more than 100 aspirational districts which were pockets of underdevelopment,'' he said.

''Democratization of technology is an important tool to help bridge the data divide. In India, digitalisation has brought revolutionary change. India is willing to share its experience with partner countries,'' he also said.

PM Modi spoke about his government's work to boost development in over 100 aspirational districts, a reference to underdeveloped areas.

Experience has shown that these districts have emerged as a catalyst for the country's growth and urged the delegates to study the model as they may find it relevant.

Noting that development is a core issue for the Global South, he said these countries were severely impacted by the disruptions created by the global Covid pandemic.
And, the food, fuel, and fertilizer crises because of geo-political tensions have delivered another blow, he added.

"In such circumstances, the decisions you make carry great significance for humanity as a whole. I strongly believe that it is our collective responsibility not to let the Sustainable Development Goals fall behind. We must ensure that no one is left behind. It is imperative for this group to send a strong message to the world that we have an action plan to achieve this," he said.

Describing Varanasi, where the meeting is taking place, as the oldest living city of the mother of democracy, the prime minister said it is a fitting location for the G20 development ministers' meeting.

"Kashi has been a centre of knowledge, discussion, debate, culture, and spirituality for centuries. It has the essence of India's diverse heritage and serves as a convergence point for people from all parts of the country," he said.