PM Narendra Modi opened the G20 Summit in Johannesburg with a strong message for world leaders. He urged countries to rethink current development models and adopt systems that are more inclusive, sustainable and rooted in long-term cultural wisdom. This year’s G20 is historic, as it is the first to be hosted in Africa. PM Modi said this moment calls for “a course correction” in how the world approaches growth.
Spoke at the first session of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, which focussed on inclusive and sustainable growth. With Africa hosting the G20 Summit for the first time, NOW is the right moment for us to revisit our development parameters and focus on growth that is… pic.twitter.com/AxHki7WegR
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 22, 2025
He announced three major initiatives, a Global Traditional Knowledge Repository, a G20–Africa Skills Multiplier Initiative and a new global effort to counter the drug–terror network.
PM Modi Calls for Traditional Knowledge Repository
PM Modi began his address by emphasising the need to protect traditional wisdom. He proposed a Global Traditional Knowledge Repository under the G20. He said India’s Indian Knowledge Systems programme can act as the base for this effort.
The initiative aims to collect and preserve knowledge from communities across the world. This includes practices related to climate-friendly living, public health, natural resource management and community welfare. He said such methods are essential as the world deals with climate change, urban stress and lifestyle shifts.
The repository will ensure this knowledge is available to future generations, researchers and policymakers. PM Modi said traditional wisdom often offers solutions that modern systems tend to overlook.
G20–Africa Skills Multiplier Initiative Targets 1 Million Trainers
Focusing on Africa’s growing youth population, PM Modi launched the G20–Africa Skills Multiplier Initiative. The programme will use a train-the-trainer model. He said G20 nations should work together to certify one million skilled trainers in Africa in the next 10 years.
These trainers will help millions of young Africans gain new skills and employment opportunities. PM Modi said this effort will support Africa’s economic rise and strengthen global growth. He added that India’s ties with Africa deepened last year when the African Union became a permanent member of the G20 during India’s presidency.
The initiative also builds on India’s long-standing development partnership with African nations in education, digital skilling, agriculture and health systems.
PM Modi Pushes for G20 Initiative Against Drug–Terror Nexus
PM Modi raised serious concerns about the spread of synthetic drugs like fentanyl. He warned that these substances threaten public health and fuel instability across regions. He proposed a G20 Initiative on Countering the Drug–Terror Nexus.
This initiative will help nations coordinate on intelligence sharing, financial tracking and law enforcement actions. Its main goals are to break drug-trafficking networks, stop the flow of illegal funds and weaken terror groups that depend on drug money. PM Modi said the global drug trade is becoming more dangerous and requires “unified global action.”
India Positions Itself as a Bridge Between Global South and G20
PM Modi’s proposals highlight India’s growing role as a voice for the Global South. With Africa hosting the G20 for the first time, he said the world must focus on fairness and long-term stability.
His three major announcements are expected to be part of ongoing discussions as leaders work on a roadmap for the next decade of global cooperation.
